Margherita bats for development of Muga and Eri cluster-based villages in NE

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 25, 2024

Union Minister of State for Textiles & External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, emphasized the vital role of the Central Muga Eri Research & Training Institute (CMER&TI) in promoting Assam’s Muga silk, a Geographical Indication (GI) tagged product.

Speaking at the 25th establishment day celebration of CMER&TI, part of the Central Silk Board, in Lahdoigarh, Jorhat, on Thursday, Margherita appreciated the institute for its significant contributions to making India a global leader in Vanya silk production.

The Union Minister stressed the importance of bolstering sericulture farming in the Northeast to enhance Muga silk production, benefiting local communities and boosting the economy. He called for the employment of more field assistants to spread awareness and encourage greater community involvement in sericulture.

In addition, Margherita advocated for the development of Muga and Eri cluster-based villages and the active engagement of youth in Eri culture as a means to revitalize the industry.

He also urged the establishment of advanced laboratories for research and development, and the introduction of crop insurance to protect stakeholders from potential losses. His focus was on strengthening the industry to preserve Assam’s cultural heritage while providing sustainable livelihoods.

Margherita suggested leveraging the National Livelihood Mission to enhance support for sericulture initiatives. He also stressed the importance of increasing mulberry production in Assam and safeguarding the rights and contributions of indigenous weavers to strengthen all stakeholders in the state’s textile sector.

During the event, a special documentary showcasing CMER&TI’s 25-year journey and research achievements was unveiled, alongside the release of a souvenir titled “25 Years of Excellence.” A special postal stamp, issued in collaboration with India Post, was also launched. Additionally, a book titled “Golden Threads: A Guide to Muga Post Cocoon Technology” was introduced to the audience.

One of the event’s highlights was the launch of a groundbreaking commercial loose-egg production technology for Eri-culture, designed to empower sericulture entrepreneurs and promote sustainable Eri silk production across India.

Certificates of appreciation were awarded to technical and administrative staff, as well as key stakeholders in the sericulture sector, recognizing their contributions. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Assam’s Textile Minister UG Brahma, MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, and MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi.