Srinagar, Apr 04: Ahead of the upcoming Silkworm Rearing season, Director Sericulture, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat visited the Grainages of Saria Danger Pora in Bandipora district to boost Silkworm Seed Production, Mulberry Cultivation and Cocoon Production.
During his inspection of the S D Pora Grainages, he noted the impressive progress of renovation and up-gradation, with an 80% completion rate. He assessed the functioning of the Grainages and inspected various Mulberry Farms/Nurseries in S D Pora, covering an area of 150 kanals and yielding an annual turnover of 20,000 Mulberry Saplings.
Bhat said the grainages are utilised for breeding and seed production, with a capacity of 150,000 Dfls.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Sericulture stressed the need for concerted efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in silkworm seed production within Jammu & Kashmir. “The department is committed to supporting silkworm rearers in doubling the production of silkworm seeds and enhancing mulberry plant production within the grainage,” he said, adding that this initiative aligns with the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) and is expected to make the UT of J&K self-reliant in Silkworm Seed production.
The S D Pora Grainage, a hub for P1 Silkworm Seed production, serves a significant number of Silkworm Rearers in Kashmir Division and adjacent villages, acting as a seed station for commercial silkworm cocoon crop. The foliage harvested in the farm is utilised in S D Pora grainages for seed crop rearing.
During the visit, Ajaz chaired a review meeting with grainage officers, urging them to double silkworm seed production and mulberry plantation. This strategic initiative aims to ensure an adequate supply of mulberry foliage and silkworm seed to adjacent areas, thereby strengthening sericulture activities across the region.
The Director emphasised the importance of organising outreach programmes targeting the general public, especially silkworm rearers and youth, to raise awareness about various schemes offered by the Sericulture Department. These programmes aim to empower stakeholders with knowledge and resources to foster growth and sustainability in the sericulture industry in Jammu & Kashmir. The Development Officer of the Sericulture Development Department and other officers were also present during the visit.
