J&K Launches Skill Development Program for Sericulture with New Resources and Support

Ajaz Ahmad Bhat IAS, Director of Sericulture, kicked off a three-day Skill Development Training Program on Thursday. This initiative is part of the Silk SAMAGRA-II and Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) aimed at advancing human resource development in Jammu and Kashmir.

The event featured the launch of the “Silk Mark Journal” and “Resham Booklets,” which are designed to spread knowledge and best practices in the sericulture industry. Dr. M. Maheshwari, Director of the Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Pampore, was the Special Guest of Honor.

As part of the program, rearing kits were handed out to progressive farmers in Srinagar and Budgam Districts, highlighting the department’s dedication to empowering the sericulture community.

During his address, Director Bhat emphasized the importance for stakeholders to utilize the department’s resources, including technical support, disease-free silkworm rearing disinfectants, rearing tool kits, and phased financial assistance for constructing rearing sheds.

Silkworm rearers and farmers present expressed their gratitude to Director Bhat for his unwavering commitment and efforts, which they believe will significantly contribute to the sector’s development.

Director Bhat also urged officers to accelerate the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for submission to the government. This initiative aims to establish community rearing halls across J&K, providing landless and marginal farmers with the opportunity to engage in silkworm rearing under the department’s supervision—a critical step for the sector’s sustainable growth.

The program underscored the department’s commitment to a thriving and innovative sericulture industry through ongoing human development initiatives and training.

Director Bhat expressed appreciation to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Production Department, and Member Secretary of the Central Silk Board for their support in revitalizing the sericulture industry in J&K.

Dr. Maheshwari of CSR&TI Pampore reaffirmed her full support for the Sericulture Department and local farmers. She emphasized the significance of skill development training programs and expressed hope that such initiatives will continue to be organized, promoting scientific practices in silkworm rearing to enhance silk production in J&K.