Cluster-based Interventions in Indian Sericulture: Advancing Bivoltine and Vanya Silk Sectors for Sustainable Growth
S. Gogoi
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
M. Saikia
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
P. R. Narzary
*
Department of Sericulture Crop Improvement, College of Sericulture, Titabar, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
S. Saikia
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
M. Begum
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
B. Buragohain
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
R. R. Saikia
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
G. Borah
Department of Sericulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat – 785013, Assam, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Sericulture in India is a vital rural-based industry, offering livelihood opportunities to economically weaker communities. While India is the second-largest silk producer globally, around 72.23% of its mulberry silk output is crossbreed (CB) silk, which lacks export potential. To enhance the production of gradable bivoltine silk and strengthen the vanya silk sector including tasar, eri, and muga, the Central Silk Board (CSB) initiated the Cluster Promotion Programme (CPP) during the XI and XII Five-Year Plans. The CPP employs a holistic, participatory Research-Extension-Farmer (R-E-F) model to improve productivity, qualityand market access. Initially covering 50 clusters, the program expanded to 178 across mulberry, vanya, and post-cocoon sectors. Specific attention was given to vanya silk clusters: 22 tasar clusters and initiatives in eri and muga-producing states. This review evaluates the role of CPP in transforming India’s sericulture landscape into a more inclusive, sustainable, and export-oriented industry by empowering both mulberry and vanya silk stakeholders.
Keywords: Bivoltine, cluster, extension, sustainability, vanya