SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has set an ambitious target of producing 225 metric tonnes of raw silk annually by 2030-31, with authorities outlining a roadmap that includes expansion of sericulture into new areas, strengthening disease surveillance, improving farmer outreach and increasing bivoltine cocoon production.
The strategy emerged from a high-level review and monitoring meeting on sericulture development held at the Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSR&TI), Pampore, where officials from the Sericulture Development Department and the Central Silk Board reviewed the sector’s progress and future priorities.
The meeting focused on preparedness for the upcoming silkworm rearing seasons, crop monitoring mechanisms and scientific interventions aimed at enhancing productivity while safeguarding silkworm crops from disease outbreaks and environmental risks.
Officials discussed measures to improve cocoon yields through synchronized brushing schedules, region-specific scientific practices and expansion of sericulture activities into new potential areas. Special attention was given to strengthening disease monitoring systems during the summer and autumn rearing seasons to minimize crop losses and improve silkworm seed and cocoon quality.
The participants also emphasized the need to increase bivoltine silk production, considered crucial for improving the quality and competitiveness of Jammu and Kashmir’s silk industry. Cluster-based development, particularly in tribal and outside-orchard areas, was identified as a key strategy for protecting mulberry plantations from pesticide contamination and reducing risks faced by silkworm rearers.
Plans for capacity building and farmer outreach also featured prominently in the discussions. Officials reviewed proposals for awareness campaigns, technical training programmes, Krishi Melas and extension activities during 2026-27 to facilitate the transfer of modern sericulture technologies to farmers across the Union Territory.
As part of the outreach strategy, the department is planning mega farmers’ events in Kashmir and Rajouri later this year in collaboration with the Central Silk Board. The meeting also discussed the establishment of private mulberry nurseries on successful models adopted in other states to improve the availability of quality planting material.
The review further examined progress on recommendations made during the September 2025 visit of the Union Textiles Secretary to Kashmir and assessed the status of various developmental initiatives undertaken since then. Pending audit observations related to Central Silk Board-assisted schemes were also reviewed, with officials stressing the need for timely compliance and improved programme implementation.
The meeting was chaired by Ajaz Ahmad Bhat and attended by Dr N Sakthivel, scientists of the Central Silk Board, senior departmental officers and representatives from both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.
Officials said coordinated efforts between the Sericulture Development Department and the Central Silk Board would be critical for achieving the long-term production targets and ensuring sustainable growth of the sericulture sector, which supports thousands of rural households across Jammu and Kashmir.
