Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar while addressing the national seminar on 'Inclusive Development of Tasar Silk Industry in India' organized by Central Tasar Research and Training Institute (Ministry of Textiles, Government of India), Ranchi and Bio-diversity Board and Forest Department, Jharkhand at Central Tasar Research and Training Institute, Ranchi today said that Tasar silk industry is not only an agriculture based industry but it is also an integral part of the tradition and culture of the tribal community. Jharkhand is the leading state of the country in this industry and the livelihood of a large number of local people is linked to it.

Describing the Tasar silk industry as an example of environment-sensitive and sustainable development, he said that it not only strengthens the rural economy but also promotes forest conservation. The Governor said that about 10 million people are directly or indirectly associated with the production of tassar silk and various schemes are being implemented by the Government of India through the Central Silk Board and the Ministry of Textiles, which is promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in this sector.

Sharing his previous experiences, the Governor said that he got the opportunity to work as Union Minister of State for Textiles (Independent Charge) in May 2014 in the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During this period, he closely observed the efforts being made for the welfare of silk farmers and weavers and made every possible effort to increase their income. He said that special attention is required in policy-making to advance the tassar producers of Jharkhand and make their livelihood sustainable.

The Governor said that the demand for tassar silk is continuously increasing in the global market and we have to take advantage of this opportunity and give a special identity to Indian tassar silk. For this, special attention needs to be paid to branding, quality control, export promotion and technological advancement. He called for further promotion of research and innovation in this sector. He also mentioned that Saranda forest of Jharkhand is often called the 'Tasar Capital of India' and it is believed that Tasar originated here. Research and Development (R&D) has to be given priority to further strengthen this sector.

The Governor called upon the scientists and researchers to pay special attention to the by-products and product diversification of Tasar silk, so that the income of local artisans and weavers can be increased.

On this occasion, he observed the Tasar products and their processing processes. A book/research paper was also released by the Governor. Also, persons who made outstanding contributions in this field were honoured.