Ministry Proposes Castor-Based Silk Production To Boost Industry

New Delhi, Jul 6 (KNN) The Union textile ministry is considering a proposal to utilise castor leaves for silk production, according to two sources close to the matter.

This initiative aims to enhance India's silk output and create additional employment opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas.

India, the world's second-largest silk producer, employs an estimated 9.2 million people in its sericulture industry.

Despite significant domestic production, the country still imports silk to meet high internal demand.

The proposed pilot project would begin in Bhagalpur, Bihar, a major castor-producing district.

Other Bihar districts with substantial castor cultivation, including Purnea, Munger, Saran, Champaran, and Muzaffarpur, may also be involved. If successful, the project could be expanded nationwide.

The silk derived from castor leaves, known as eri silk, is characterised by its softness, warmth, and durability. Its wool-like texture makes it particularly suitable for winter wear.

One source indicated that the project might commence within the first 125 days of the newly formed NDA government, pending the completion of a concept note. The ministry has not yet responded to queries regarding this initiative.

The proposal involves cultivating the samia ricini insect on castor plant leaves. Castor plants are known for their versatility, with seeds used in medicine and lubricants, and stems utilised in thatched roof construction.

This diversification effort aims to reduce dependence on mulberry silk and potentially provide additional economic benefits to farmers through the multi-use nature of castor plants.

The initiative also seeks to address India's trade imbalance in silk. Data from the commerce ministry shows fluctuating export and import values over recent fiscal years, with imports consistently exceeding exports.

In FY24, silk exports reached USD 124.05 million, while imports stood at USD 208.54 million, resulting in a trade deficit of USD 84.49 million.

India currently imports silk from various countries, including Vietnam, China, Myanmar, Brazil, and Hong Kong, to meet the demands of its textile and fashion industries.

However, V. Balasubramanian, president of the Silk Association of India, expressed skepticism about the proposal, stating, "Actually, there has not been any successful story of producing silk from castor or any other leaves."

As the project remains in its planning stages, its potential impact on India's silk industry and rural employment remains to be seen.

(KNN Bureau)