Punjab’s Sericulture Sector Flourishes with Government Initiatives Boosting Silk Production
Chandigarh, February 9, 2025 — Punjab’s sericulture sector is experiencing significant growth, thanks to targeted government initiatives aimed at increasing silk production, empowering farmers, and boosting the rural economy. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the guidance of Horticulture Minister Shri Mohinder Bhagat, the state has introduced a series of policies designed to modernize the industry and improve the livelihoods of farmers, especially women engaged in silk production.
At the forefront of these efforts is the recent Silk Mark Expo 2024, held at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh. This event, inaugurated by Minister Bhagat, highlighted the Punjab government’s ongoing commitment to the sericulture sector, providing a platform for artisans, traders, and entrepreneurs to showcase their work. The expo was a significant milestone in the state’s push to boost the silk industry, improve market access for farmers, and elevate the status of silk as a key product in the region.
Key Government Initiatives Driving Sericulture Growth
Minister Shri Mohinder Bhagat shared details on the government’s focus areas for developing Punjab’s sericulture industry. One of the most notable achievements is the increase in the price of cocoons, which has risen from ₹550 per kilogram to ₹1,250 per kilogram. This increase is a direct result of focused government efforts to improve the quality and sustainability of silk farming, ensuring fair compensation for farmers, particularly those from rural and women-led households.
“These improvements have played a pivotal role in empowering women and supporting the rural economy,” said Bhagat. His remarks reflect the broader goal of using sericulture as a tool for economic development, particularly in areas where alternative sources of income are limited.
Infrastructure Development and Increased Silk Production
Infrastructure development has been a cornerstone of Punjab’s sericulture strategy. With annual cocoon production reaching an impressive 29,000 kilograms, the state has made significant strides in creating the necessary infrastructure for silk production. Key projects include the reactivation of the Silk Seed Production Centre in Dalhousie, which aims to provide farmers with high-quality silk seeds at nominal prices. This initiative not only supports local farmers but also fosters self-reliance in the silk industry, ensuring sustainable growth for years to come.
Additionally, the state is working on establishing silk reeling units and cocoon storage facilities to add value to raw silk and help farmers increase their incomes. These facilities will play a crucial role in the silk supply chain, allowing local producers to process their raw materials and sell finished products at higher market prices.
Recognition for Women Empowerment and Socio-Economic Growth
The Punjab Government’s efforts in sericulture were recently recognized with the Silver Award at the Skoch National Awards 2024. The award, presented for the project titled “Women Empowerment and Socio-Economic Growth through Sericulture”, underscores the positive impact these initiatives are having on women in rural areas.
Women, especially in rural Punjab, have been particularly impacted by the rise in silk production. The government’s focus on empowering women through sericulture is helping them gain financial independence and improve their livelihoods, contributing to the broader goal of gender equality in rural economies. Minister Bhagat stressed that the state’s policies are designed to integrate women into the workforce, providing them with opportunities to succeed in industries traditionally dominated by men.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sericulture in Punjab
Punjab’s sericulture sector is poised for continued growth with the government’s ongoing support. In the coming months, the Punjab Silk brand will be launched, aiming to enhance the visibility of local silk products and create a strong market identity. This initiative will not only promote Punjab’s silk on a national scale but will also help create jobs and income opportunities for farmers across the state.
Further investment in infrastructure, such as cocoon storage and reeling facilities, will also contribute to the sector’s long-term sustainability. These facilities are expected to increase the quality of silk production and allow farmers to earn higher returns on their investments.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Punjab’s Sericulture Sector
With targeted government initiatives, infrastructure development, and a focus on women empowerment, Punjab’s sericulture sector is entering a new era of growth and opportunity. The combined efforts of the state government, along with the enthusiasm of local farmers and entrepreneurs, are transforming the industry into a powerful driver of rural economic growth.
As Punjab continues to embrace sericulture as a critical component of its rural development strategy, the future of the sector looks bright. With increasing silk production, fair compensation for farmers, and an emphasis on sustainable practices, Punjab is well on its way to becoming a leader in silk farming in India.