Srinagar, Oct 13: A first-of-its-kind brainstorming session organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has set the stage for a policy roadmap to revive Jammu and Kashmir’s silk industry, drawing on recommendations from experts across India and six countries. Organised by the College of Temperate Sericulture on the sidelines of the J&K Agriculture Science Congress 2026, the session focused on addressing sectoral challenges and improving productivity, silk quality, market access and farmers’ returns.
Experts from Uganda, Vietnam, Thailand, Romania, Japan and Turkey joined representatives of the Central Silk Board, J&K Sericulture Development Department and other institutions to deliberate on measures to strengthen the sector.
Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, was the chief guest. The session was chaired by Prof. Afifa Shaheen Kamili, former Director Extension, SKUAST-K, with Prof. M.R. Mir, Associate Dean, College of Temperate Sericulture, as co-chairperson.
Prof. Ganie said SKUAST-K initiated the exercise to bring national and international expertise together to develop a policy roadmap for reviving the sector. He emphasised coordinated action, scientific research and modern technologies to improve farmers’ returns, generate rural employment and promote silk-based entrepreneurship.
The deliberations covered mulberry cultivation, silkworm seed quality, modern rearing practices, cocoon productivity, silk quality, market linkages and value addition. Experts also stressed stronger extension services, the integration of traditional knowledge with modern technologies and greater opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
The recommendations will be consolidated into a policy framework for submission to the J&K Government, focusing on production and marketing constraints, a stronger silk value chain and improved livelihoods for sericulture farmers.
The technical sessions were moderated by Prof. I.L. Khan, Prof. K.A. Dar and Dr. Aabid Khaliq Tantray. Prof. Sajad Ahmad Baba and Dr. Parvaiz Nabi Reshi served as rapporteurs. Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Dar served as the Organising Secretary of the event.
