Karnataka, India’s largest silk producer, is grappling with a noticeable dip in raw silk output, mirroring a broader national trend. The Central Silk Board (CSB) has forecast India’s raw silk production at 30,614 tonnes for 2024–25 (April-December), a significant drop from last year’s 38,913 tonnes — the first decline after four consecutive years of steady growth.
Since 2020–21, India’s silk production had climbed from 33,770 tonnes to a peak of 38,913 tonnes in 2023–24. CSB officials note that these figures are provisional and raw silk output from January to April might push the final tally closer to 38,000–40,000 tonnes.
However, ground realities tell a tougher story. In Karnataka’s Sidlaghatta and Ramanagara districts, known for their thriving cocoon markets, farmers report persistent challenges. Diseases affecting mulberry crops have driven many away from sericulture toward growing fruits, flowers, and vegetables.
Once a highly profitable venture, sericulture is losing its sheen due to stagnant cocoon prices, rising input costs, labour shortages, and competition from cheaper Chinese silk. Farmers say that while crossbreed cocoons can fetch up to ₹650 per kg, production costs have soared to ₹500 per kg, squeezing profit margins.
Karnataka, contributing 40% of India’s total silk output, is now at a critical juncture. Without interventions to boost farmer incomes and protect the industry, India’s silk heritage could face a major unraveling.
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