Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh recently launched the Eri Silk Production Development Scheme at Dantiwada Agricultural University. This new project, initiated by the Central Silk Board, is designed to thrust the Eri silk production in the districts of Banaskantha, Patan, Mehsana, and Sabarkantha in Gujarat.
The event was held at Sardar Krishinagar University, Dantiwada, where an agreement was signed between the Central Silk Board, Agricultural University Dantiwada, and Kalyan Foundation, Palanpur. Minister Singh also honoured progressive farmers for their contributions.
Minister Singh praised the efforts of scientists and farmers and highlighted the government’s increase in the agriculture budget from Rs. 21,000 crores to Rs. 1,50,000 crores, as well as the rise in export productivity from Rs. 19 lakh crore to Rs. 76 lakh crore. He emphasised the goal of doubling farmers’ incomes and noted that farmers now receive Rs. 6,000 annually.
Singh suggested that castor farmers in Gujarat could earn an extra Rs. 1-1.5 lakh per hectare by growing Eri silk. With support from the Kalyan Foundation, Palanpur is set to become known as Silk City. The scheme aims to enhance silk production across India, extending from the northeastern regions to the western and northern parts of the country.
Union Minister of State for Textiles, Pavitra Margherita spoke to farmers in Gujarati, praising Gujarat’s entrepreneurship and handicrafts. He encouraged castor farmers to try Eri silk cultivation to improve their self-sufficiency and contribute to the country’s economic growth by combining tradition with innovation.
