Indian Silk Production: India Targets Global No. 1

Indian Silk Production Gets New Growth Targets

India is targeting major growth in Indian Silk Production to strengthen its global position. Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh announced the goal during the 77th Foundation Day programme of the Central Silk Board in Bengaluru.

India produced 26,000 metric tonnes of silk in 2014. Production has now reached 42,000 metric tonnes. The Government has set a target of 60,000 metric tonnes by 2030-31. It also aims to make India the world’s No. 1 silk producer by 2028-29.

The Minister highlighted efforts to improve mulberry leaf yields and increase cocoon-rearing cycles. These measures aim to raise annual farmer income to ₹10 lakh–₹12 lakh.

Central Silk Board Promotes Modern Sericulture

Giriraj Singh proposed ‘Best Silk Farmer’ competitions at district, state and national levels. He also stressed the need to take scientific innovations, hybrid varieties and modern machinery directly to farmers.

Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje said Karnataka leads India in total silk production. She highlighted modern technology, high-density production and quality improvement measures.

Central Silk Board Joint Secretary Padmini Singla noted plans to introduce high-yielding silkworm hybrids and modern machinery. The sector will also use AI, GIS and Machine Learning for quality inspection and production improvement.

The programme also featured MoU exchanges, appointment letters for 28 scientists, awards for employees and stakeholders, and the release of Board publications.

The Indian Silk Production strategy focuses on higher output, farmer income, technology adoption and stronger market opportunities for the silk sector.