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Assam Dominates India's Muga Silk, Producing 90% of Prized Golden Fiber

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that Assam accounts for nearly 90% of India's Muga silk production and about 65% of its Eri silk, cementing its status as the global hub for these indigenous silks. He emphasized that these industries are crucial for sustaining rural livelihoods and strengthening the state's agrarian economy under the vision of a self-reliant Assam. The state government has implemented various support measures, including financial aid, infrastructure development, and skill programs, to revitalize the sector. These efforts focus on modernizing practices while preserving tradition, empowering women weavers, and boosting the silk's presence in national and international markets.

Key Points: Assam: 90% of India's Muga Silk, 65% of Eri Silk Production

  • Assam produces 90% of India's Muga silk
  • State also accounts for 65% of Eri silk output
  • Silk sector is key to rural livelihoods and economy
  • Government initiatives support farmers and weavers
  • Muga silk holds a prized Geographical Indication tag
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Assam accounts for 90 pc of India's Muga silk production: CM Sarma

Assam Chief Minister reveals the state produces 90% of India's Muga silk and 65% of Eri silk, highlighting its role as a global hub and key rural economy driver.

"Muga and Eri are not just textiles, they are symbols of our heritage and engines of our rural economy. - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, March 3

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday highlighted Assam's dominant position in India's silk sector, stating that the State accounts for nearly 90 per cent of the country's Muga silk production and around 65 per cent of Eri silk output, making it the global hub of these indigenous silks.

In a post on social media platform X, Sarma said that Assam's Muga and Eri silk industries play a crucial role in sustaining rural livelihoods, strengthening the State's agrarian economy and reinforcing the vision of #AtmanirbharAssam.

He added that the traditional silk sector remains one of the key pillars of Assam's self-reliant growth model.

"Muga and Eri are not just textiles, they are symbols of our heritage and engines of our rural economy," the Chief Minister said, underlining the cultural and economic significance of the silk industry in the State.

Sarma further noted that the Assam government has undertaken a series of initiatives to support and revitalise the silk sector, with a focus on increasing productivity, improving market access and ensuring sustainable income for weavers and rearers.

These measures include financial assistance to silk farmers, infrastructure development, skill upgradation programmes and promotion of Assam silk in national and international markets.

The State government has also emphasised modernisation of sericulture practices while preserving traditional techniques, enabling artisans to meet contemporary demand without compromising on authenticity.

Special schemes have been rolled out to empower women weavers, who form the backbone of Assam's silk industry.

Muga silk, known for its natural golden sheen and durability, is unique to Assam and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, while Eri silk is valued for its eco-friendly and cruelty-free production process.

Together, these silks contribute significantly to employment generation in rural and semi-urban areas.

The Chief Minister reiterated that strengthening the silk sector remains a priority for the government as part of its broader strategy to boost indigenous industries, enhance exports and create a resilient rural economy rooted in Assam's traditional strengths.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see traditional industries getting focus. But I hope the "modernisation" doesn't mean losing the authentic handloom techniques. The real value is in the craftsmanship, not just mass production. The GI tag must be protected fiercely.
A
Aman W
Assam's silk is unmatched! The golden Muga is so unique. I recently bought an Eri silk shawl - so warm and soft, and knowing it's eco-friendly makes it even better. More power to the women weavers! 👏
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves sustainable fashion, I'm fascinated by Eri silk's cruelty-free process. It's impressive that Assam is a global hub. Would love to see more international marketing so the world appreciates this heritage.
V
Vikram M
This is the real meaning of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Supporting indigenous, rural industries that have cultural roots. Hope the financial assistance reaches the actual weavers and farmers on the ground and isn't lost in bureaucracy.
K
Kavya N
My didi is a weaver in Sualkuchi. The skill upgradation programs have helped her a lot. She can now design for newer markets while keeping our traditional motifs. It's not just silk, it's the story of Assam woven into every thread.

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