The Central Government, through the Central Silk Board (CSB), is implementing the ‘Silk Samagra-2’ scheme to promote the holistic development of the silk industry in India. With a financial outlay of ₹4,679.85 crore, the scheme is being implemented for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26 to strengthen and expand the sericulture sector across the country.
This scheme, financial assistance is provided to states for various key interventions, including the establishment of silk nurseries, silkworm rearing packages (covering plantation, irrigation, rearing houses, rearing equipment, and preventive measures), chawki rearing centers, silkworm seed production, silk reeling, spinning, weaving, and processing activities.
So far, a central assistance of ₹1,075.58 crore has been provided to different states, benefiting more than 78,000 farmers and stakeholders. This support covers pre-cocoon and post-cocoon activities and machinery, ensuring the growth and sustainability of the silk industry.
With a strong focus on research and development (R&D), the productivity and production of silk in India have significantly improved, moving the country towards self-reliance in silk production. The primary goal of the ‘Silk Samagra-2’ scheme is to boost the production of international-grade bivoltine silk, thereby enhancing India's position in global silk exports.
Based on proposals received from states, the Central Government has sanctioned ₹72.50 crore to Andhra Pradesh and ₹40.66 crore to Telangana over the last three years, including the current financial year. This assistance has been provided under the ‘Silk Samagra-2’ scheme to implement various beneficiary-oriented initiatives in these states.
Encouraging Growth in the Handloom Sector: To further strengthen the handloom sector, including in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the government is implementing the Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS) and the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP). Under these schemes, eligible handloom agencies and weavers receive financial assistance for:
Procurement of raw materials
Purchase of upgraded looms and accessories:
Expanding Market Opportunities for Handloom Products: To provide a wider market reach for the silk and handloom industries, the government, in collaboration with the Central Silk Board (CSB), National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), and the Indian Silk Export Promotion Council, organizes trade fairs, exhibitions, and expos. These events, supported by the Ministry of Textiles, aim to give handloom and silk industry stakeholders enhanced exposure to domestic and global markets.
Read More- Government Support for Silk Farmers and Weavers – Know Its Uses
