Bilal Handoo
Budgam
To boost the sericulture sector in the state, the department of agriculture today inaugurated a centrally sponsored reeling unit in Budgam district of central Kashmir.
The Unit which is fourth of its kind in district Budgam has been set up at a cost of Rs 14 lacs for which the department of Sericulture Development Department (SDD) and the Central Silk Board has provided 90 per cent subsidy.
When run completely, the unit has the potential to consume 30,000 kgs of cocoons and can generate employment for 30 to 35 youth of the area.
Agriculture Minister, Ghulam Hassan Mir who inaugurated the unit expressed hope to touch new record in cocoon production. “With the endeavors of the government, the cocoon production is expected to touch record 3 lakh kgs this year,” minister told the gathering.
People associated with the business of cocoon production are happy over the new developments. The trade is showing the positive results as during the current year, the net increase of 1300 kgs cocoon in district Budgam has been recorded.
Families associated with cocoon rearing at individual level have earned Rs 19 lacs during last year while as this year the families have generated Rs 23 lacs so far. There is increase in number of families taking this as main source of livelihood, “the number of families has increased from 389 to 417 this year,” revealed the figures.
To promote and facilitate, SDD will provide 50 Silk Worm Rearing Sheds at the rate of Rs 50000 each shed to the beneficiaries on the subsidy of 90 per cent during this year. Besides, 50 Silk Worm Rearing Kits worth Rs 22000 each shall also be provided to the cocoon growers in district Budgam free of cost.
