Transformative Revival: Government-Backed Muga Farm Boosts Cocoon Supply with Renewed Hope

In the face of mounting challenges, the government-operated Muga Seed Farm in Khanapara, Guwahati, offers a beacon of hope for Assam’s struggling muga silk industry. Demonstrator Sujit Barman announced that the farm has successfully reared 500 grams of muga eggs during the current Katiya season. Based on the healthy growth and active development of these disease-free cocoons, the farm anticipates producing around 20,000 muga cocoons. This production is expected to help revive the disrupted supply chain, providing much-needed relief to muga farmers and the overall industry.

Muga silk, often referred to as the ‘Queen of Threads’, holds a prestigious place in Assamese culture and is celebrated globally, much like the state’s emblematic one-horned rhinoceros. The muga industry, which thrives primarily in the Brahmaputra Valley and surrounding hilly areas, has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, affirming its unique regional identity. Assam’s optimal climate has naturally designated it as the home of this golden silk, with traditional practices contributing significantly to rural economic development.

However, the industry faces a grave threat from global warming and abrupt climate changes. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather have severely impacted muga cultivation, particularly during the vital Ahar, Bhaada, and Ahin seasons. This year’s extreme heat has notably disrupted muga cocoon supply chains, crucial for Katiya farming, forcing many farmers to struggle in sourcing adequate cocoons. Despite these setbacks, the efforts at the Muga Seed Farm in Khanapara offer a lifeline, potentially stabilizing the supply chain and supporting the resilience of Assam’s iconic muga silk industry.

Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/guwahati/govt-run-muga-farm-set-to-revive-cocoon-supply-1561388
Category : Assam,Guwahati,Featured,More
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Publish Date: 2024-12-17 14:41:00