Short Note : Silk Sector of India

India has always been a major producer of silk in the world historically with evidence of sericulture (rearing of silkworms) observed even back in 2450 BC and 2000 BC. India has in the past traded extensively with other civilizations and is currently the second largest producer of silk after China.

Nearly 97% of the Indian silk comes from the six Indian States- Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and West Bengal. However, India silk is currently losing its competitiveness in International markets due to the competitiveness of foreign products.

Hence, to boost the silk sector in India, the government has decided to take the following endeavors-

Silk Samagra

• The Government of India is implementing a Silk Samagra through the Central Silk Board under a Central Sector Scheme.
• It will focus on improving the quality and productivity of domestic silk.
• It has a total outlay of Rs. 2161.68 crore to develop of sericulture in the country over a three year period.
• The amount will be used to provide assistance to sericulture stakeholders for the beneficiary oriented components like raising of Kissan nursery, plantation with improved Mulberry varieties, Irrigation, multi-end Reeling machines, Improved Twisting machines and support for post yarn facilities for quality silk and fabric production.

Silk Production in the North East

• A total of 38 Sericulture projects have been implemented in the identified districts in the North East.
• These projects are grouped under three broad categories: Integrated Sericulture Development Project (ISDP), Intensive BivoltineSericulture Development Project and Aspirational Districts.
• A total amount of Rs. 1,106.97 crore has been proposed for the project with the Government of India s share is Rs. 955.07 crore.
• The objective of these projects is to establish sericulture as a viable commercial activity in the North East Region by establishing the necessary infrastructure.
• It also aims to impart the necessary skills to the locals for silkworm rearing and allied activities in the value chain.

Banarasi Saris

The banarasi saris are among the finest saris made in India. They are known for their gold and silver brocade or zari, fine silk and opulent embroidery. These saris are made of finely woven silk and are decorated with intricate design.