Cabinet approves MoU between India and Japan in field of Silk Industry

The Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Japan for collaborative research in the field of silkworm and silk industries. The MoU was signed between Central Silk Board (CSB), India and National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS), Japan in November 2016.

Key Facts

The MoU was of scientific and technological nature. Its aim was to initiate Collaborative Research for developing prolific bivoltine hybrids of silkworm suitable for Indian tropical conditions. Its purpose was to help in developing prolific hybrid silkworms, which will improve quality standards and manufacturing capacity of Indian sericulture industry to enhance exports of silk and silk products. It is expected that subsequent to MoU, Indian Textiles and Apparel Industry will be able to produce world class silk and silk products. The improvement of quality and productivity will ultimately increase export of silk products.

India’s Silk Industry

India’s Silk Industry is world’s second largest after China. The total production of silk in India stood at around 23,000 tonnes in the year 2011-12. India produces four varieties of silk produced, viz. Mulberry, Eri, Tasar and Muga. About 80% of silk produced in country is of mulberry silk, majority of which is produced in the three southern States of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Sericulture Provides gainful occupation to around 63 Lakh persons in rural and semi-urban areas in India. About 97% of raw silk in India is produced in five Indian states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2017