Vol. 10, Special Issue 6 (2021)

Author(s):
KA Dar, Ganie Auqib H, Ganie NA, S Farhat, RK Sharma, S Salib, Omaise A, Arbia A Rafique and Sana Parviz

Abstract:
Sericulture is an agro industry, suits rural farmers, artisans and entrepreneurs requiring less investment with high returns. Sericulture is an art rather than a science which deals with the rearing of silkworms for the production of cocoons, a raw material for the silk production. India has a rich and complex history in silk production and its silk trade dates back to 15th century. Sericulture industry provides employment to approximately 9.18 million persons. India is the only country in the world with monopoly of producing all the four commercially known silks viz., Mulberry, Tasar, Eri and Muga. Sericulture is an enterprise which plays an important role in sustaining Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) UT’s economy. The UT produced about 800 MT of cocoons during 2019-20 with income generation of about Rs 25.00 crore under pre-cocoon sector and an estimated Rs 30.00 crore under post-cocoon/yarn production excluding value additions in silken fabric/products sales. There is a vast scope of technology adoption, capacity building of the cultivators and implementation of global best practices. 70% cocoon crop produced in the UT is sold to people from outside the UT. Establishment of adequate silk reeling facilities and infrastructure related to forward linkages will add tremendous value to the existing value. Emphasis should be led on up gradation of knowledge and skill of the development/extension workers and farmers through need based training programmes. Facilitate transfer of technology to silkworm rearers and explore new areas especially with the involvement of women folk are the major steps to be taken to revive this age old industry.