Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): The Silk Producers has strengthened rural development in Himachal Pradesh. In fact, the Sukhu government has allocated more than ₹1.63 crore to 105 silk producers in Mandi district. This support aims to improve silk farming and boost rural income.
Officials said the initiative reflects growing success in the sericulture sector. Moreover, farmers and government efforts together have helped Mandi emerge as a key silk production hub in the state.
Sericulture Growth in Mandi District
Mandi district has developed a complete sericulture value chain. It now includes mulberry cultivation, seed production, cocoon processing, and oak tasar silk farming.
Notably, the Silk Producers highlights how the sector is expanding. Between 2023–24 and 2025–26, authorities distributed 3,619 ounces of silk seed. This benefited 6,593 farmers across the district.
Similarly, during the same period, farmers produced 27,041.74 kg of green cocoons. Authorities also distributed 84,500 improved mulberry plants to support cultivation.
Financial Aid for Farmers
Under the Silk Samagra-2 scheme, the government provided financial assistance to farmers in 2025–26. A total of 105 beneficiaries received ₹163.66 lakh.
As a result, the Mandi Sericulture Scheme 163 Lakh Support helped farmers set up mulberry plantations and rearing houses. It also supported equipment purchase and infrastructure development.
Officials said this financial aid has strengthened farmer confidence in sericulture activities. Currently, around 1,944 families are engaged in silk farming in the district.
Training and Awareness Programs
The department conducted regular training and awareness programs for farmers. These programs focused on scientific silk farming methods.
In addition, farmers received guidance on disease management, plantation techniques, cleanliness, and quality cocoon production. These efforts improved productivity and reduced losses.
The Mandi Sericulture Scheme 163 Lakh Support also includes skill development initiatives to promote modern farming practices.
Expansion of Oak Tasar Silk Farming
Oak tasar silk farming is growing in middle and high-altitude areas of Mandi. This forest-based activity provides an additional income source for rural families.
Importantly, officials said this form of silk production is especially helpful for families living near forest regions. It creates seasonal employment and supports rural livelihoods.
Furthermore, the government continues to promote this activity under the broader Silk Producers framework.
Role of Key Sericulture Institutions
Several institutions are actively supporting sericulture development in Mandi. These include the Sericulture Division Mandi, Sub-Divisional Office Balichowki, Silk Seed Production Centre Thunag, and Sericulture Division Sandhol.
These centers provide planting material, technical training, marketing support, and quality improvement services.
The Thunag Silk Seed Production Centre plays a key role in producing quality silk eggs. Its capacity has reached 650 DFL annually.
Meanwhile, the Balichowki center focuses on post-cocoon activities. It supports silk weaving, thread production, and value addition. It also trains local artisans to improve income opportunities.
Conclusion
The Silk Producers has become a major step in strengthening rural economy and silk production in Himachal Pradesh. Overall, with financial aid, training, and institutional support, Mandi district is emerging as a strong sericulture hub.
Finally, the scheme continues to improve farmer income, boost employment, and modernize silk farming across the region.
Key Points (Quick Summary)
- ₹1.63 crore given to 105 sericulture farmers in Mandi.
- 6,593 farmers benefited from silk seed distribution.
- 27,041 kg cocoon production recorded in recent years.
- Training programs improved scientific silk farming.
- Sericulture becoming key rural income source in Mandi.
