Assam Launches Som Tree Plantation Drive to Boost Muga Silk Industry

Assam, Jul 14 (KNN) In a significant push to strengthen Assam’s iconic Muga silk industry, the Lakhimpur district administration, in collaboration with the Sericulture Department, initiated a large-scale Som tree plantation drive in Phukanarhat village on Sunday.

A total of 1,500 Som saplings were planted on a 10-bigha plot as part of the initiative’s first phase. The plantation aims to benefit local farmers involved in Muga silk production by ensuring a sustainable supply of leaves for silkworms.

The event saw the presence of District Commissioner Pronab Jit Kakoty, Superintendent of Police Gunendra Deka, and several officials from the sericulture department. Farmers and community members also participated enthusiastically in the drive.

“Som trees are crucial for Muga silk production. This effort is not just about planting trees—it’s about securing the livelihoods of hundreds of farmers and preserving a cultural legacy,” said DC Kakoty.

Som trees (Persea bombycina) are native to Assam and serve as the primary food source for the Muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis), which produces the golden-hued silk unique to the region. Their evergreen nature ensures year-round leaf availability, enabling stable silkworm rearing.

Officials emphasized scientific planting techniques, including spacing and care, to ensure sapling survival and optimal leaf yield. “Muga silk cannot be mass-produced without Som trees. This initiative ensures farmers have access to quality foliage, directly impacting silk output,” said a sericulture official.

Muga silk, which holds Geographical Indication (GI) status, is deeply rooted in Assam’s heritage and identity. The plantation drive is expected to strengthen both economic and cultural dimensions of the traditional silk sector.

(KNN Bureau)