Farmers in Manipur get training in sericulture to boost silk production

The northeast region is one of the leading producers of silk in the country. In order to encourage the farmers to take up sericulture and give a boost to silk production, a training programme was recently organized at Khuman Lampak in Imphal.

To give a boost to quality silk production, a 5-day long Beneficiary Empowerment Training Programme was recently organized by the Research Extension Centre of Central Silk Board at Khuman Lampak in Imphal.

"I joined this programme to begin a career in sericulture and earn a livelihood," said a participant, L Lumimingam

The participants were given theoretical training followed by field exposure visits to Changangei and Mantripukhri

Under the programme, eight batches, comprising of 20 participants each will be given training in Ukhrul and Churachandpur districts this year.

The organizers aim to enhance the production from 1.5 metric tons to 14 metric tons in silk producing Ukhrul and Churachandpur district of Manipur.

"If I start silk production, other people will get awareness. I will also advise them to get engage in sericulture after getting a positive feedback," said another participant, HR Ringkhan.

Manipur has been the largest producer of Oak-Tasar Silk in the country and second largest silk producing state in the Northeast region.

The state has got approval of the Central Silk Board for implementation of Cluster Promotion programme for the production of Bivoltine Silk in the state.

The introduction of sericulture activities under Japan funded Manipur Sericulture Project Phase-I has produced considerable revenue.

"Considering the climatic conditions of Manipur and particularly Ukhrul district which is very much suitable for Mulberry Biovoltine silk production. This is one of the leading districts of Manipur. We are expecting very good cocoon and very good silk production, especially from Ukhrul cluster," said Dr. L Somen Singh, Expert, Central Silk Board.

The growth of silk industry in the state has opened new avenues for the unemployed youth to earn a livelihood.