India aims to increase silk production in 3-4 years to become self sufficient

India is expected to be self-sufficient in silk production by 2020 with an annual growth rate of 19 percent, the aim is to produce around 34,000 MTs. At present the output is 28,000 MTs (metric tonne) to 30,000 MTs and the production is growing year to year, said Central Silk Board (CSB) Chairman K M Hanumantharayappa.

China produces 80 percent of global silk output, while India’s share is 13 percent, while the production in other countries account for the remaining 7 percent.

If they can continue this momentum, they can aim to stop imports from China and produce that much in three-four years. Silk imports have come down to 3500 MTs now from about 6,500 MTs, he said.

China produces only mulberry, but India produces other varieties, including Tasar and Muga, he said.

The state governments can also pitch in to increase silk production by supporting farmers through monetary benefits and through other means, in this the Board would also help the cause.

The CSB, a statutory body established in 1948 by an Act of Parliament, functions under the control of Union Ministry of Textiles. Its mandated activities include, research and development, maintenance of silkworm production seed production network, leadership role in commercial silkworm seed production and standardising quality parameters in various production.

The CSB Board is offering a number of services like technological support to farmers, subsidies on machines and free training to the farmers.