Unique Initiative: CM Mann promotes silk production to boost income for landless farmers

Punjab E News: Punjab’s Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is actively working to diversify the state’s agriculture sector. By introducing silk production initiatives, Mann aims not only to increase farmers’ awareness but also to secure income growth over time. Under Mann’s leadership, the Punjab government has taken significant steps to support both traditional and landless farmers, enhancing their livelihoods through the promotion of silk production and agricultural ventures. This initiative has opened up job opportunities for the youth and strengthened the economic standing of landless farmers.

The state’s silk department purchases silk cocoons from the Central Silk Board. These silk worms are carefully housed and, once developed, are distributed to farmers, who cultivate and prepare the cocoons for sale. Farmers, especially those from poorer backgrounds, sell these two-month-old cocoons to traders in other states, earning substantial profits. The Mann administration’s strong focus on agriculture and horticulture has resulted in timely support for silk farmers, allowing them to expand their operations.

Support for silk producers: Training and subsidies

Silk production has become a prominent supplementary occupation for the rural poor, particularly in the districts of Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, and Rupnagar. Known for its flexibility and value, silk is a natural fiber produced with great care by the worms. Through government-backed sericulture schemes, farmers receive subsidies for activities such as tree plantation, silkworm rearing, facility setup, training, and solar tours.

The Punjab government also organizes regular camps to raise awareness about silk production. Mann’s policies have spurred the growth of the silk industry in Punjab, and several initiatives continue to support its expansion. Areas like Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, and Rupnagar are key hubs for silk production, which is managed under two divisions: Sundram and Mukerian.

Currently, approximately 1,200 farmers are involved in Punjab’s silk industry, producing cocoons across nearly 40-50 lakh hectares. The state is also planning to establish a silk reeling unit in Pathankot district, which is expected to double cocoon production and further streamline silk processing. To encourage broader participation, the government is providing small farmers with silk seeds and financial assistance and is hosting state-level fairs to promote this supplementary enterprise.