Pampore, Mar 15: Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IAS), Director Sericulture J&K, today inaugurated one day Resham Krishi Mela (Kissan Mela) at the Central Sericulture Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), Pampore. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of about 500 silkworm rearers and youth from all districts of Kashmir which reflects the growing interest in sericulture as a sustainable livelihood option.
The Resham Krishi Mela was jointly organised by the Sericulture Development Department J&K and CSR&TI Pampore to celebrate the achievements of the sericulture community and to encourage broader participation in sericulture-related activities.
On the occasion, Bhat felicitated silkworm rearers with mementos, certificates, and toolkits as a token of appreciation for their dedication and contribution to the sector. He highlighted that the primary objective of the event is to create awareness and provide capacity-building opportunities for silkworm rearers, farmers, and youth.
Bhat stressed the need for the establishment of more Silk Reeling Units in J&K, which would not only boost the local economy but also ensure the utilization of raw silk within the region for cost-effective manufacturing of finished silk products.
Dr. Sardar Singh, Director CSR&TI Pampore, while addressing the gathering, highlighted the various schemes and benefits available to the people of J&K through collaboration with the Sericulture Development Department J&K and CSR&TI Pampore.
During the event, several silkworm rearers and farmers shared their success stories, illustrating how the department’s support has transformed their livelihoods. They urged unemployed youth to explore sericulture as a viable and rewarding career.
Bhat expressed his happiness over the continuous good spell of rainfall and snowfall at many places in J&K which will significantly augment the water reserves for irrigation in Mulberry Farms and Nurseries across J&K, besides, improve the quality of Mulberry foliage for ensuing silkworm Rearing.
The event was attended by Director CSR&TI Pampore, Joint Secretary (Tech), Central Silk Board, MoT, GoI, New Delhi, Additional Director Sericulture Dev. Department Kashmir, Prof. & Dean TSRI-SKUAST-K Mirgund, Project Executive Officer Srinagar/Kashmir, District Sericulture Officers from various districts, Manager Seed (BSSM).
