Skill Development Training Concludes in Karbi Anglong for Silk Industry

A four-day skill development training program focused on silkworm rearing and yarn spinning concluded on September 6, 2023, in Karbi Anglong, India. The event, part of the Silk Samagra-2 initiative, culminated with the distribution of essential equipment, including rearing appliances, motorized spinning machines, and looms, at the Sericulture office in Reshom Bhawan.

The training commenced on September 2, 2023, under the auspices of the Silk Samagra-2 scheme for the fiscal year 2024-25. This initiative is sponsored by the Central Silk Board in Bangalore and implemented by the Sericulture Department of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). Chief Executive Member of KAAC, Tuliram Ronghang, graced the closing ceremony as the chief guest.

During the event, Ronghang emphasized the importance of local participation in the sericulture industry to enhance the rural economy. He noted that the Silk Samagra-2 program was initiated this year with the aim of developing the silk industry in the region. The government has allocated INR 400 crores for the initiative, which aims to create sustainable livelihoods through silk production.

Ronghang mentioned plans to visit New Delhi to discuss additional funding with Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles. He indicated that Margherita has expressed willingness to allocate an extra INR 30-40 crores if the initial phase of Silk Samagra-2 proves successful.

The program has specifically targeted women, encouraging them to engage in silkworm rearing as a means to strengthen their economic independence. Ronghang highlighted the potential for local women to produce their own textiles and traditional garments, such as peni, pekok, poho, and seleng. He pointed out that Karbi Anglong has ample land for silkworm rearing, enabling rural residents to become self-sufficient.

Kache Rongpipi, the Executive Member of KAAC overseeing the Sericulture Department, reported that 48 individuals, predominantly women, received training in operating mechanized spinning machines. This training equips them to produce yarn independently, fostering increased participation in the silk industry.

In addition to the training, approximately 240 beneficiaries received pansomi saplings, which serve as food plants for silkworms. These beneficiaries will also benefit from a substantial 90% subsidy for constructing rearing houses. Extension Officer for Sericulture, Longki Timung, added that 340 individuals are now part of the Pansomi scheme for silkworm cultivation.

The distribution of equipment during the closing ceremony included loom sets, mechanized spinning machines, and rearing trays, which are critical for the beneficiaries to start their silkworm rearing activities. Following the ceremony, Ronghang, along with Chairman Raju Tisso and Deputy Chairman Avijit Kro, distributed the essential tools to the participants.

The successful completion of this training program marks a significant step forward in developing the silk industry in Karbi Anglong, with hopes of creating a sustainable economic foundation for local communities.