Director Sericulture J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat participated in the prestigious 142nd Board Meeting of the Central Silk Board (CSB), held in Bengaluru under the chairmanship of Joint Secretary (Silk) & Vice Chairperson, CSB, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Prajakta L. Verma.
The meeting began with a vote of thanks to the Chair, followed by an insightful presentation by P. Sivakumar, Member Secretary, CSB, highlighting the significant achievements of the Board and ongoing projects aimed at strengthening the sericulture sector across India and Dr. NareshBabu N, Joint Secretary (Tech), Central Silk Board, placed key agenda items for deliberation during the session.
During the meeting, Director Sericulture underscored the critical need for robust marketing support for the auction and sale of silk cocoons. He emphasized how such initiatives could benefit marginal and landless farmers, encouraging them to adopt sericulture as a sustainable and dignified livelihood. He urged stakeholders to work collectively to boost cocoon production in Jammu & Kashmir, which has immense potential in the sector.
Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Bhat thanked the Central Silk Board for its consistent support to J&K’s sericulture industry through various schemes and generous budgetary allocations. He also advocated for the revival of the Silkworm Seed Station, Manasbal, which in-principle agreed by the Chairperson during the meeting.
In a forward-looking discussion, Prajakta L. Verma highlighted the potential of promoting sericulture in J&K as a unique tourist attraction, catering to both domestic and international visitors. Stress was laid on third-party evaluation mechanisms and convergence to enhance the sector's efficiency.
The meeting also focused on empowering youth and women through skill development and entrepreneurship initiatives, aiming to strengthen the industrial ecosystem and foster substantial economic growth.
Mr. Bhat seized the opportunity to extend an invitation to host the 143rdBoard Meeting of the Central Silk Board in Kashmir, showcasing the region’s rich sericulture heritage, diversity and potential.
The high-profile meeting was attended by senior officials and stakeholders from across the country, reflecting a shared commitment to the growth and sustainability of India’s silk industry.
