Mizoram: MoS Pabitra Margherita highlights potential of Muga silk cultivation in state

Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, on May 5, praised the potential for cultivating Muga silk in Mizoram during a press conference at Aizawl’s Regency Hotel.
 

Margherita shared that on May 4, he discussed the prospects of Muga silk cultivation in Mizoram with Chief Minister Lalduhoma. Currently, Muga silk is only grown in Assam, but the Minister highlighted that there is considerable potential for its cultivation in Mizoram.

He noted that the Mizoram state government, the Mizoram BJP, and other stakeholders have recognized the opportunity, expressing confidence that Mizoram can replicate the success of Assam and Meghalaya in silk production.

Margherita emphasized that the northeastern states have a rich and diverse handicrafts and handloom culture, with over 225 sub-tribes and communities each having their own unique textile designs. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Textiles has several programs aimed at the overall development of textile weavers, particularly handloom weavers, handicrafts, and artisans.

The Minister explained that the Ministry offers skill development and upskilling opportunities for handloom weavers. Through the Samarth Scheme, the Ministry collects organized information from state governments and other agencies to provide subsidized yarns, traditional looms, and accessories, while also encouraging research and development to enhance the productivity of traditional looms.

He added, “Handloom weavers from all remote areas are now connected to metro cities and the global market through online portals. While handmade materials face competition from machine-made products in terms of quantity, handloom items stand out for their unique richness and have a growing global demand.”

Margherita assured that the Ministry of Textiles will continue to support and work towards the betterment and development of Mizoram’s handloom industry.