With the State sericulture department spotting large population of two plant species on which silk worm is reared for growing muga silk, cultivation of muga silk, which only grows in Assam, is all set to flourish in Uttarakhand. The department, which aims at bulk production of muga silk in the State, has roped in 50 farmers in muga silk, also known as Assam silk and golden silk, production.
Bulk production may also bring down muga silk yarn rates which presently costs Rs16,000 to Rs18,000 per kg. Steps to start production of Muga silk, commonly called as nature’s gift to Assam, started in 2004 when sericulture department official noticed large population of trees, including litsea monopetala and persea bombycina in Bageshwar and Nainital during a survey. The area having presence of these plants was marked.
It was then the efforts were started to cultivate muga silk in the state. Silk department cultivated muga silk on trial basis at some of these trees at office premises. Trial gave wonderful results. Enthused with the success, department decided to involve some of the farmers in the areas whereon trees are found in abundance.
At present, 50 farmers in different areas of Bageshwar and Nainital have been involved in silk production after carrying out plantation of monopetala and bombycina plants. Silkworm rearing for production of Muga was in progress and farmers will reap first crop of silk by June this year.
After success of the trial and booming rearing of silkworms for muga in the congenial areas, the department prepared a comprehensive project worth Rs 6.62 crore, which has been sent to the government for its nod, for starting bulk production of muga silk. Under the project, department aims at involving 550 farmers in silk production.
The department is ready with the seeds and plants. Silkworm rearing houses were also ready in some areas. Soon after the government approval the department would go ahead for large scale production. Massive plantation of the two species will be carried out in the congenial areas in order to maintain production in series.
Director Sudhir Mohan Sharma says, “The department has completed preparation to produce Munga silk in the state. As soon as government gives its to start the Muga silk production project, it will be implemented. Bageshwar and Nainital are the most congenial places for Muga silk production since the two species of plants, including litsea monopetala, Persea bombycina, are found in abundance.”
Muga is considered as best quality of the silk across the world. Department officials believe that starting of muga silk production will change fate of the farmers and those involved in silk business. At present, 50 farmers are involved in producing Muga Silk. It will also help in earning revenue to the state.