Mysuru: The Central Silk Board (CSB) is set to celebrate its Platinum Jubilee at the Karnataka State Open University’s Convocation Hall in Mysuru on September 20. This grand event will commemorate 75 years of significant contributions to the silk industry in India and the CSB’s role in revolutionising sericulture across the country.

Milestones of India’s Silk Industry

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, P Sivakumar, Member Secretary of the Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, highlighted the Board’s pivotal role in the growth of India’s silk industry over the decades. He noted the key milestones that have marked the country’s progress in silk production since CSB’s inception.

“India is the only country producing four types of silk commercially: Mulberry, Tasar, Eri, and Muga,” Sivakumar stated. India’s share in global silk production has dramatically increased from 6% in 1949-50 to an impressive 42% in 2023-24. Raw silk yarn production has also witnessed a tremendous surge, growing from 1,242 metres in 1949-50 to 38,913 metres today. In terms of exports, the silk industry has expanded from Rs 0.41 crore in 1949-50 to a staggering Rs 2,028 crore.

Sivakumar further elaborated on the growth of mulberry cultivation, which has increased from 0.57 lakh hectares to 2.63 lakh hectares. “Productivity in silk production has also improved, with raw silk productivity rising from 15 kg per hectare to 110 kg per hectare,” he said. A significant advancement is seen in the efficiency of silk yarn production, where 17 kg of cocoons were once required to produce 1 kg of silk. Today, that figure has reduced to 7 kg of cocoons. The production of import substitute ‘Bivoltine Raw Silk’ has also risen dramatically, from 475 metric tonnes (MT) in 1995-96 to 9,675 MT in 2023-24. Meanwhile, vanya (wild) silk production has reached 9,021 MT, a notable increase from 261 MT in 1951-52. The silk industry has also been a major source of employment, generating 9.5 million jobs across the country.

Advancements in Silk Research and Development

Dr S Gandhi Doss, Director of the Central Sericulture Research and Training Institute in Mysuru, also addressed the press and spoke about the advancements being made in the sector. He announced that several new ‘technologies’, including new mulberry varieties, improved silkworm breeds, hybrids, machines, and products, will be unveiled during the Platinum Jubilee celebration. These innovations are aimed at further improving the productivity and quality of India’s silk industry.

Doss also revealed that multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Memorandums of Agreement (MoAs) will be signed between CSB and other research and development organisations, signalling a commitment to ongoing collaboration and innovation within the sericulture sector.

Exhibition and Documentary

A special expo featuring a diverse range of silk products will be held as part of the celebrations. The exhibition will showcase the artistic and technological advancements in silk production, providing attendees with insights into the intricate artistry and high-quality standards that define Indian silk.In addition, a documentary chronicling CSB’s 75-year journey will be screened at the event. The film will highlight the organisation’s key achievements, its contribution to research and development, and its impact on the Indian silk industry. The documentary is dedicated to the stakeholders of sericulture who have played a crucial role in advancing the industry.

Recognition of Contributions to Sericulture

To honour outstanding contributions to sericulture, awards will be presented to the best-performing farmers, stakeholders, and scientists. These awards will recognise their dedication and service to the industry, reflecting the Central Silk Board’s emphasis on supporting those who have contributed to the growth and sustainability of the silk sector.

Commemorative Stamp and Publications

To mark the occasion, a special postal stamp cover dedicated to Indian sericulture will be released. Additionally, several publications highlighting the services and research achievements of the Central Silk Board will be launched. These publications will offer valuable insights for the silk industry, with updates relevant to research and development in sericulture.

Cultural Programmes

The Platinum Jubilee celebration will also feature cultural programmes by artistes representing different sericulture states and union territories of India, adding a vibrant touch to the proceedings.

Dignitaries and Attendees

The event will be graced by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, as the chief guest. Several other prominent figures, including Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Magherita, Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Railways, V Somanna, district in-charge minister H C Mahadevappa, minister K Venkatesh, and Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar will also be in attendance. Other notable participants include MLAs K Harish Gowda, G T Devegowda, and T S Srivathsa.

The event will see a gathering of heads of sericulture departments, policy makers, planners, scientists, and technical experts, as well as sericulture stakeholders from 26 states and union territories, making it a key occasion for the industry.