SRINAGAR: In an attempt to strengthen the sericulture sector and support landless farmers in Jammu and Kashmir, Director Sericulture , Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, inaugurated the construction of low-cost silkworm rearing huts in District Ganderbal. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Sericulture Development Department J&K and the College of Temperate Sericulture (CoTS), SKUAST-K, Mirgund, Baramulla.
Speaking at the event, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat reaffirmed the department’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and providing modern facilities for silkworm rearers, with a particular focus on landless farmers. He emphasised that improved rearing conditions would lead to better cocoon production and quality, ultimately strengthening farmers’ livelihoods. He called upon farmers, youth, women, and silkworm rearers to actively engage with the department and benefit from various schemes aimed at doubling cocoon production.
The inaugural function drew a large gathering of farmers, youth, women, and officers from the College of Temperate Sericulture and the Sericulture Development Department.
Addressing the audience, Dr K A Sahaf, Associate Dean of CoTS, SKUAST-K, underscored the strong coordination between SKUAST-K and the Sericulture Department in advancing sericulture across the Union Territory. He reiterated the university’s commitment to promoting sericulture activities in far-flung areas, with special attention to unemployed youth, women, and landless farmers.
Zubair Ahmad Wasil, District Development Manager, NABARD, urged farmers and women participants to take advantage of the available schemes and capacity-building programmes. He stressed that active participation would enhance economic self-reliance and open sustainable income opportunities.
Today’s initiative marks a major milestone in ongoing efforts to revitalise the sericulture sector in Jammu and Kashmir, promoting rural livelihoods and empowering marginalised communities.
