Mr.Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS, Director Sericulture J&K, conducted a comprehensive visit of the Cocoon Auction Market at Pulwama to assess the ongoing auction proceedings for the cocoon crop produced by the Silkworm Rearers of District Pulwama.
The event witnessed the participation of cocoon growers and buyers from both local and outside of the U.T of J&K.
During the visit, Mr. Bhat reviewed the progress of the auction process and interacted with cocoon growers and buyers.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring transparency and efficiency in the auction process to provide the best possible returns to the Silkworm Rearers.
He also expressed satisfaction with the quality of cocoons produced this season and appreciated the efforts of the Rearers and departmental staff in maintaining disease-free rearing conditions.
In his address, the Director stressed the need for all stakeholders to leverage the benefits of various schemes and facilities provided by the department.
These include technical support, distribution of disinfectants for disease-free silkworm rearing, provision of rearing tool kits, and financial assistance for the construction of rearing sheds in a phased manner.
He highlighted the importance of these facilities in improving the productivity and quality of cocoons and ensuring sustainable income for the farmers.
Mr. Bhat also underscored the department’s commitment to ensuring that all ongoing projects, particularly the construction of rearing sheds, are completed before the onset of the winter season. He urged the officers to expedite the process and ensure that the beneficiaries receive the necessary support on time.
It is imperative that all rearing sheds are completed well before winter to provide proper shelter for silkworm rearing and safeguard the livelihoods of our farmers,” he said.
The visit also provided an opportunity for interaction between cocoon growers and buyers, facilitating better market linkages and encouraging competitive bidding.
The presence of buyers from outside the region further boosted the prospects of favourable returns for the rearers.
The Cocoon Auction Market at Pulwama serves as a crucial platform for the trade of high-quality cocoons, produced by hardworking silkworm rearers of the district.
The department, under the leadership of Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS continues to work towards the betterment of the sericulture sector in J&K, ensuring that farmers receive the best possible support and infrastructure for their growth and development.
The Director assured the stakeholders that the department will continue to prioritize the interests of silkworm farmers by providing them with necessary training, tools, and financial assistance to improve their production capacity and marketability.
The Director Sericulture J&K was accompanied by the Additional Director, Sericulture Development Department, Kashmir, Projector Executive Officer, Kashmir, District Sericulture Officer, Pulwama/ Shopian and other Officers of the Department.
