The Union Minister of State for Textiles and External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, visited the Central Silk Board’s Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organisation (MESSO) in Guwahati on October 28, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the development of India’s sericulture sector. MESSO, which operates through 13 field units across Northeast India and Tamil Nadu, plays a crucial role in producing high-quality Muga and Eri silkworm seeds, supporting growth and innovation in the sericulture industry.
During his visit, Margherita commended the transformation of sericulture in Northeast India, particularly in Muga and Eri silk production, noting how it has evolved from a tribal craft to a thriving industry. This growth, he highlighted, has created substantial livelihood opportunities for rural and tribal communities, especially among women artisans who are integral to the sector. Margherita acknowledged the Central Silk Board’s research and development initiatives, backed by the Indian government, as a driving force behind this transformation, which has positively impacted the socio-economic conditions of communities engaged in sericulture.
Margherita also praised MESSO Guwahati’s proactive efforts to expand Muga silk culture beyond Assam to regions with cooler climates, including Kalimpong in West Bengal and parts of Uttarakhand. By diversifying cultivation areas, MESSO aims to combat the adverse effects of climate change on silk production and secure a sustainable supply of quality Muga silk.
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The Minister emphasised the importance of enhancing seed production efficiency across all Basic Seed Producing units in Northeast India to meet the growing national demand for Muga and Eri silk. He urged MESSO to focus on quality and scalability in seed production, ensuring that India’s silk products maintain a competitive presence in both domestic and international markets.
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