The Government of India, in a bid to develop the country’s sericulture sector, has announced an allocation of Rs. 2161.68 crore for the years 2017-2020. The fund has been designated for the implementation of its Central Sector Scheme, “Silk Samagra.” The Central Silk Board (CSB) is in charge of the execution of the scheme.
Components of the “Silk Samagra” Scheme
The scheme aims to improve the productivity and quality of Indian silk, thereby reducing India’s dependence on imported silk. Silk Samagra covers four primary areas:
1. Research & Development
2. Training and Technology Transfer
3. Seed Organizations Coordination and Market Development
4. Quality Certification Systems (QCS)/Export Brand Promotion and Technology Up-gradation
The R&D units are responsible for developing technology packages and transferring improved technology programs to stakeholders. Seed production units produce seeds from improved Silkworm breeds developed by the research institutes. QCS units oversee and certify the quality standards for Silkworm seeds, cocoons, raw silk, and other silk products.
Beneficiary-Oriented Components
The scheme extends assistance to sericulture stakeholders for beneficiary-oriented components such as nurseries, plantation of improved Mulberry varieties, and irrigation. Support is also provided for rearing centres, reeling units, and post-yarn facilities.
| Beneficiary-oriented component | Description |
|---|---|
| Raising of Kissan Nursery | Support for agricultural nursery |
| Improved Mulberry Varieties Plantation | Support for plantation of enhanced Mulberry varieties |
| Irrigation | Facilities and support for irrigation |
| Rearing Centres | Support for rearing centres with incubation facilities and rearing equipments |
| Reeling Units | Support for improved reeling units like automatic reeling units, multi-end reeling machines |
| Post-Yarn Facilities | Support for post-yarn facilities for quality silk and fabric production |
Silk Production in India
India is known for its production of five major commercial silk types: Mulberry, Oak Tasar & Tropical Tasar, Muga, and Eri. With the exception of mulberry, the rest are considered vanya silks or wild silks. South India is the leading silk producing region in the country.
The Central Silk Board
Established in 1948 by an Act of Parliament, the Central Silk Board (CSB) works under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, headquartered in Bangalore. It is tasked with promoting the development of the Silk Industry and advising the Central Government on matters relating to the industry.
