India to boost silk production with castor leaves initiative

The Textile Ministry has proposed a new initiative to use castor leaves for producing silk, aiming to boost the country’s silk production and create more employment opportunities. This initiative is set to start with a pilot project in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar, a significant castor-producing area.

The pilot project in Bhagalpur will target other castor-producing districts in Bihar, including Purnea, Munger, Saran, Champaran, and Muzaffarpur. By using castor leaves, the initiative aims to produce Eri silk, a variety known for its warmth, durability, and wool-like texture, making it suitable for winter clothing.

One of the people involved in the project stated, “The concept note is being prepared, and the project may start within the first 125 days of the newly formed NDA government.” This initiative not only seeks to increase silk production but also aims to reduce India’s reliance on silk imports.

Expanding the use of castor leaves for silk production could potentially transform India’s sericulture industry, providing a sustainable and locally sourced alternative to meet the high domestic demand for silk.