Dir Sericulture aims to increase silk cocoon production in J&K

Srinagar, May 09: Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IAS), Director Sericulture J&K today embarked upon a comprehensive visit to Kulgam to evaluate the arrangements in Incubation/Rearing Centers of the Department and availability of leaf reserves in the District apart-from inspecting developmental projects, infrastructure up-gradation and Mulberry Nurseries/Farms.
Speaking on the occasion he underscored the importance of enhancing silk cocoon production, increasing the number of Reeling and Weaving Units for manufacturing of finest quality Silk products indigenously in the region as per the parameters set-forth by the Silk Mark India.
He further emphasized that concerted and collective efforts are required from all stakeholders in realizing the goals envisioned by the department to transform the socio-economic of the people of the J&K and achieve a significant position in this Sector among other States in India.
He further advised the officers and field functionaries of the department to have a close coordination with the Silkworm Rearers, Farmers and youth in order to bolster and redouble cocoon production in J&K.
Moreover, he exhorted them to foster an environment and sprit of entrepreneurship among the Youth of J&K so that they can avail the benefits, facilities and subsidies to establish their units for manufacturing of Silk Fabric and other products with finest quality.
During the occasion he reiterated his unwavering commitment for unprecedented growth and innovation in sericulture in J&K.
The Director, Sericulture J&K assessed various key facilities to ensure robust mechanism and set a stage for this rearing season and availability of important inputs required for the purpose.
In this backdrop he inspected various Mulberry Nurseries, Silkworm Seed Incubation Centers, and Sericulture Assistant Offices. He also visited various sites across Malpora, Devsar Zone, Chidder, Nandi Zone, Chellen, Kulgam Zone and Pombay Zone in order to examine the infrastructure and engaging with silkworm rearers and farmers directly.
He also assessed the Mulberry Nursery and Chawki Rearing Center at Chowgam, besides, conducting an inspection of P1 Silkworm Rearing in the Seed Unit at Yarkipora of District Kulgam.
The Director, Sericulture J&K during his tour of various locations gave detailed account of the mulberry wealth existing in the District and informed thatin District Kulgam there are at present 20 Mulberry Farms/Blocks and 08 Mulberry Nurseries which are spanning over a large area of 525.70 hectares of land.
These facilities annually produce a substantial number of exotic Mulberry Plants, essential for distribution among farmers and plantation on State/Community landsin order to make the mulberry foliage readily available in abundance for landless and marginal farmers.