PNS
Dumka
In a concerted effort to scale up silk productivity and bolster rural livelihoods, a comprehensive sericulture training programme was conducted under the aegis of the ‘Mera Resham Mera Abhiman 2.0’ campaign at the Pilot Project Centre (PPC) in Kathikund on Monday. The initiative was jointly spearheaded by the Central Tasar Research and Training Institute (CTRTI), Ranchi, and the Directorate of Handloom, Sericulture, and Handicrafts, Government of Jharkhand, with sponsorship from the Central Silk Board, Union Ministry of Textiles.
Delivering the presidential address, Scientist-D Dr. Shantakar Giri advocated for the rigorous implementation of an integrated Package of Practices across the entire silk production cycle. He laid special emphasis on the scientific management of host plants, stringent disinfection of rearing equipment, and proactive measures to curb predators and pests. Dr. Giri added that optimizing grainage management and nurturing nutrient-rich foliage are vital prerequisites for securing disease-free, high-yielding Tasar crops.
Echoing these recommendations, Dr. Gautami, Scientist at BSMTC Kathikund, alongside District Nodal Officer Ravi Shankar Sharma, demonstrated modern rearing methodologies to the participating farmers. They urged cultivators to transition from conventional habits to structured, research-backed techniques in order to consistently harvest superior-grade Tasar cocoons that fetch better commercial value.
The experts unanimously noted that modernizing sericulture serves as a sustainable engine for rural economic empowerment. Adopting standardized practices not only expands farm-level output but also unlocks reliable self-employment avenues, fostering long-term self-reliance among tribal and rural households in the Santhal Pargana belt.
The interactive workshop drew strong engagement from local sericulturists, attended alongside the General Manager of the District Industry Centre (DIC) Dumka-cum-Assistant Director of Industry (Sericulture), technical scientists, and key administrative officials from the department.
