Mizoram is gearing up to significantly boost its silk industry, with Chief Minister Lalduhoma stating that the state holds immense potential to emerge as a major silk producer. Chairing a review meeting of the Sericulture Department, he emphasized that the government will implement substantial measures to unlock the sector's full capabilities and support those involved in the trade.
Vision for Viksit Mizoram 2047
Speaking at the CM Conference Hall, Lalduhoma highlighted that strengthening the sericulture sector is a crucial component of the state's efforts to achieve the broader vision of Viksit Mizoram 2047. This push is especially vital given that thousands of farmers across the state are already actively engaged in sericulture activities for their livelihoods.
Addressing Field Level Challenges
The chief minister directed department officials to formulate a comprehensive project focused on the development of sericulture. He stressed the importance of identifying and resolving the difficulties faced by both field-level officials and farmers. District-level officers were encouraged to openly voice their requirements and operational challenges so that collective solutions could be found to improve program effectiveness.
Production Statistics and Pricing
Data presented during the meeting revealed that Mizoram currently supports 7,040 sericulture farmers. As of September this year, the state has successfully produced 53.826 metric tonnes of cocoons. To provide better financial incentives, the government has already raised its cocoon procurement price from Rs 300 to Rs 350 per kg.
Infrastructure and Storage Needs
The discussion also addressed the pressing need for refrigerators to store cocoons harvested by silkworm rearers. Responding to this, the chief minister instructed that a formal proposal be submitted to the Planning Department to secure financial assistance for purchasing the necessary equipment based on direct feedback from farmers.
Manpower Shortages and Recruitment
Acknowledging ongoing manpower shortages within the department, Lalduhoma suggested implementing necessary amendments to current recruitment rules. This step aims to facilitate the prompt hiring of essential personnel, particularly rearers, while directing officials to submit proposals for other critical vacancies as well.
Central and State Schemes in Action
Several central sector initiatives are currently underway across the region. The Eri Cocoon & Yarn Production Cluster Development program benefits 120 farmers spanning Aizawl, Lunglei, and Saitual districts. Meanwhile, the Integrated Muga Sericulture Development in Mizoram program covers 70 households in Aizawl and Saitual, alongside the Comprehensive Mulberry Value Chain Enhancement Project which aids 60 farmers in the same districts.
Handholding Initiative and Achievers
Under the state government's Handholding initiative, 59 beneficiaries have received CM Special Packages across two phases, and 10 have been granted loans. Remarkably, about 70 per cent of these beneficiaries have already advanced to the cocoon production stage. Notable achievers include Hrangngaihkimi of Tawipui North-II, who received the CM Award 2026, and Lalchhandami of Tuipui D in Hnahthial district, who was conferred the Best Achiever Award – Eri Adopted Seed Rearer by the Central Silk Board on its 77th Foundation Day on September 20.
Official Outlook and Future Goals
Sericulture Minister Lalthansanga expressed his gratitude to the chief minister for convening the comprehensive review meeting. He noted that the department is undertaking renewed efforts to foster sector growth, adding that both government officials and local farmers remain highly motivated to expand sericulture throughout the state.
