Mangaluru: Sericulture Minister K Venkatesh has stated that priority will be given to promoting sericulture in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. He was speaking after inaugurating the Dakshina Kannada district-level 'Reshme Krishi Mela' organized by the sericulture department and Bharatha Agri Development FPCL at Vittal on Wednesday.
Reviving Sericulture in Coastal Districts
The minister noted that until about 30 years ago, sericulture was widely practiced in the coastal districts. However, with arecanut cultivation declining in the region, efforts will now be made to encourage sericulture as an alternative crop. He assured that all necessary support will be extended to sericulture farmers, including free saplings, equipment, fertilizers, and subsidies through the sericulture department.
Modern Methods and Technical Support
Venkatesh emphasized the vast difference between traditional sericulture practices and modern methods. Today, sericulture can be carried out easily with technical support. Those coming forward to take up sericulture in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi will also be provided technical assistance. Purchase centers and markets for silk cocoons will be established wherever required. Existing centers at Ramanagara, Sidlaghatta, and Kollegal have already been developed. Farmers are also being provided transportation assistance of Rs 30 per kg for transporting silk to markets.
Additional Staff and Market Demand
The minister further assured that additional officers and staff will be appointed to the sericulture department in Dakshina Kannada. Referring to India's rise in silk production, he said that Mysore Silk sarees continue to enjoy huge demand worldwide, and current production is insufficient to meet market demand. The market price for silk cocoons currently ranges between Rs 600 and Rs 700 per kg, while farmers are reportedly earning profits of around Rs 300 per kg. In view of this, growers should increasingly focus on sericulture.
Targets and Subsidies
Joint Director of the sericulture department, Prathibha BR, said the department has set a target of bringing 50 acres under sericulture cultivation in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. A subsidy of up to Rs 1 lakh is being provided for construction of sericulture sheds, besides subsidized equipment and machinery.
