Pampore, June 20: In a significant move to bolster the availability of mulberry foliage in length and breadth of J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IAS), Director Sericulture J&K, today chaired a crucial meeting at the Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Pampore and visited National Highway.
The meeting focused on working out modalities for conducting extensive mulberry plantations along the National Highway of Kashmir Valley in collaboration with the Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
The proposed mulberry plantation project aims to enhance the green cover along the National Highway, contributing to environmental sustainability and providing a source of High-Quality Mulberry Leaves for Silkworm Rearers. This initiative aligns with the shared goals of promoting sustainable sericulture and supporting the Silk Industry in the region.
During the meeting the Director, Sericulture J&K while sharing his valuable insights in the meeting he emphasized that a reliable source of high-quality mulberry leaves will support the local Silkworm Rearers and the availability of Mulberry leaf in abundance will certainly pave way for increased Silk cocoon production in J&K. Besides, the constant flow of raw material in the form of Silk Cocoons and Silk Yarn will ultimately prove a boon for Silk Industry and for socio economic fabric of J&K significantly. He also said that cultivation of mulberry trees will generate employment opportunities in plantation management and Silk Cocoon production. This will provide a substantial economic boost to the local communities involved in sericulture.
The Director, Sericulture J&K further said that by increasing green cover along the National Highway will be significantly beneficial for environment and ecology. The mulberry trees will act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, thus enhancing air quality. The mulberry trees will enhance the aesthetic appeal of the National Highway which will create a scenic and pleasant environment for travelers.
He further emphasized the importance of this project in achieving long-term environmental and economic benefits. He highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Central Silk Board and expressed confidence that the project would set a benchmark in sustainable sericulture practices.
This initiative will be a significant step towards a greener and more prosperous Kashmir Valley. The collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the Sericulture Department and the Central Silk Board towards achieving sustainable development and supporting the Silk Industry.
The meeting was attended by Director, Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), MoT, GoI, Pampore, Additional Director Sericulture Dev. Department, Kashmir, Development Officer, Sericulture Dev. Department, Rajouri, Project Executive Officer, Sericulture Dev. Department, Kashmir/ Srinagar, District Sericulture Officer, Pulwama/ Anantnag/ Budgam and other Senior Officers.
