Geographical distribution of sericulture

Introduction:-
Sericulture is the process of cultivating silkworms and extracting
silk from them. from the moth, Bombay more (L.), has a long and
colorful history unknown to most peoples. Although there were several
commercial species of silkworms, B. more is the most widely used and
intensively studied, and techniques for its rearing are the most
improved. The insect is the sole living species in its family, Bombycid,
and has been domesticated for so long that it probably no longer
survives in the world. Silk is a fine, lustrous fiber produced by silkworms
and other insect larvae, generally to form their cocoons. The breeding
of silkworms and the making of silk began in prehistoric times. China is
generally credited with the first sericulture, although some claim have
been made that it originated in India.

Silk can be considered as a remarkable invention of mankind to such an

extent that most of the ladies could not conceive a world without silk.
Producing silk is a lengthy process that demands constant close
monitoring of the minute details. Silk began to be used for paying
government servants and also for rewarding subjects for their
outstanding services. There are many indigenous varieties of wild silk
moths found in a number of different countries. The key to
understanding the great mystery and magic of silk, and China’s
domination of its production and promotion, lies with one species: the
blind, flightless moth, Bombay more L.,
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Origin of Sericulture:
Once up on a time long long ago in an ancient kingdom of China there
lived Queen Xi - Ling, wife of Emperor Huang-Di who was said to have
ruled China is about 3000 BC. She was interested in the introduction of
silkworm rearing, arts and invention of the loom. One day she was sat
under her favorite mulberry tree in the garden sipping tea and admiring
the beautiful spring flowers, something fell in to her tea cup. She
jumped up horrified and spilled the tea all over her lovely dress. Her
ladies-in-waiting rushed to wipe off the stains but lady Xi - Ling stopped
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

them. On top of the tea stain on her dress she spotted a lovely web of
the most exquisite threads she had ever seen before. She carefully
picked up the delicate threads come from the silkworm’s cocoon where
it fell from mulberry tree. She sat on her loom and started working out
a complicated pattern. It was the most exquisite piece she had even
woven. This discovery of silk was celebrated with great feasting and
rejoicing throughout the land. Later when commercial relations were
established between China, and the rest of the world. Knowledge of silk
spread far and wide. More recent archaeological finds-a small ivory cup
carved with a silkworm design and thought to be between 6000 and
7000 years old, and spinning tools, silk thread and fabric fragments
from sites along the lower Yangzi River – reveal the origins of
sericulture to be even earlier.

Initially, silk was a royal luxury and hence reserved exclusively for the
ruler. Only the Emperor, his close relations and his dignitaries of the
highest rank were authorized for the use of silk. Supposed, the Emperor
wore a robe of white silk within the palace. Outside him, the empress
and the heir to the throne wore yellow silk.

Gradually the various classes of society began wearing tunics of silk,

and silk came into more general use. As well as being used for clothing
and decoration, silk was quite quickly put to industrial use by the
Chinese. This was something which happened in the West only in
modern times silk, indeed, rapidly became one of the principal
elements of the Chinese economy. Silk was used for musical
instruments, fishing-lines, bowstrings, bonds of all kinds, and even rag
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

paper, the world’s first luxury paper. Eventually even the common
people were able to wear garments of silk.

During the Han Dynasty, silk ceased to be a mere industrial material

and became an absolute value in itself. Farmers paid their taxes in grain
and silk. Silk began to be used for paying civil servants and rewarding
subjects for outstanding services. Values were calculated in lengths of
silk as they had been calculated in pounds of gold. Before long it was to
become a currency used in trade with foreign countries. This use of silk
continued during the Tang as well. It is possible that this added
importance was the result of a major increase in production. If found its
way so thoroughly into the Chinese language that 230 of the 5,000
most common characters of the mandarin “alphabet” have silk as their
“key”.

History of sericulture
According to Chinese records, the discovery of silk production from
Bombay more occurred about 2,700 B.C. Chinese legend states that
the great prince, Hoang-it, directed his wife, Si-ling-chi, to examine the
silkworm and test the practicability of using the thread. Therefore, Si-
ling-chi discovered not only the means of raising silkworms, but also the
manner of reeling the silk, and of employing it to make garments. Is-
lingo-chi was later defined for her work and honored with the name
Seine-Than, or “The Goddess of silkworms”. Sericulture during the
following centuries spreads through China and silk became a precious
commodity highly sought by other countries. In 139 B.C., the world’s
longest highway was opened, and stretched from Eastern China to the
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Mediterranean Sea. In addition to tangible commodities such as gold

and jade, new ideas and religions also passed along this road. This road
was historically famous “Silk Road,” named after its most important
commodity. By the middle of the first century A.D., writes in Rome
were complaining about the sumptuous silk garments that rendered
women naked in the streets. But the Chinese had guaranteed the secret
of sericulture so closely the early Romans never learned it, and Virgil
thought the threads was derived from combining the fuzz off leaves.

Sericulture reached Korea around 200 B C, with Chinese immigrants. It

also reached the West soon. One of the most heard stories is that a
prince of present Heian courted and won Chinese princes who
smuggled out silkworm eggs. Later, the secret reached Byzantium also,
resulting in silk industry in the Middle East. The Persian too mastered
the art of silk weaving. Gradually, silk industry became wide spread in
Europe. Literary sources such as The Book of History and The Book of
Rites give further information about sericulture. Reeling and spinning
were always considered household duties for women, while weaving
and embroidery were carried out in workshops as well as the home. In
every silk producing province the daughters, mothers, mothers and
grandmothers of every family devoted a large part of the day for six
months in a year to the feeding, tending and supervision of silkworms
and to the unravelling, spinning, weaving, dyeing and embroidering of
silk. By the fifth century B C, at least six Chinese provinces were
producing silk. Each spring, the empress herself inaugurated the silk-
raising season, for silk production was the work of women all over
China. The technique and process of sericulture were guarded secret
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

and closely controlled by Chinese authorities. Anyone who revealed the

secret or smuggled the silkworm eggs or cocoon outside of China would
be punished by death.

The great French scientist, Louis Pasteur, rescued the silk industry in
1870 by showing that the epidemic Perrine disease of silk-worms could
be controlled by prevention through simple microscopic examination of
adult female moths. These advances set the trend for a more
mechanized and scientific approach to silk production than existed
previously.

Sericulture has also been attempted in the United States, but these
endeavors have been sporadic and largely unsuccessful. Sericulture was
carried on to some extent by the early colonists of Virginia, South
Carolina and Georgia and was introduced in to England about 1660. In
1831, a manual on sericulture was published by J. H. Cobb, copies of
Geographical distribution of sericulture
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

which were purchased by the Congress of the United States for

distribution by members. Following publication of this book, there was
a determined effort to establish sericulture on a firm basis in the United
States. This interest in sericulture soon led to what was known as the
“Murus multicaulisin craze.” Anticipating a most profitable investment,
if not speedy riches, thousands of individuals, purchased mulberry
plants of the Murus multicaulisin species and planted in large areas of
valuable land. The investments far exceeded possible returns, and
heavy frosts destroyed plantations of trees. In the course of a few
years, many filatures and great disappointments caused so complete a
revulsion of feeling that sericulture was practically abandoned all
through the states. However, because confederate cotton was
unavailable during and shortly after the Civil War. The Union States
were forced to seek a new source of fiber. Thus in 1869, Professor L.
Trouvelot, an American naturalist, brought eggs of the gypsy moth,
Lymantria dipar (L.), from France to

Global Silk Production (in Metric Tonnes)

 Geographical distribution of sericulture

International Sericulture Development:

 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Silk moths are found in many indigenous varieties across the world. The
species found in China is Bombay more. This is a blind, flightless moth
with a life span of nine to ten days. During its life span, it lays around
500 eggs in four to six days. The eggs are really minute. However, from
one ounce of eggs around 30,000 worms will be hatched. They feed on
mulberry leaves. The original wild ancestor of the cultivated species of
today is Bombay mandarin more that lives on white mulberry tree.
Rarely found in other countries, this unique moth of China produces
threads with smoother, finer and rounder filaments than that of other
silk moths. Perhaps the evolution of Bombay more to the present state;
a moth which has lost its power to fly, only capable of mating and
producing eggs for the next generation of silk producers, could be
attributed to thousands of years of sericulture.

Mulberry belongs to the genus Murus of the family ORACEA, the

biggest family in the order Urticates (Airy Shaw 1993). Linnaeus (1753)
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

established the genus Murus with seven species viz., Murus Alba,
Murus nigari, Murus rubric, Murus indicia. Murus tartaric, Murus papyri
era and Murus tentoria. The last two species were later considered to
represent distinct genera Broussonetia and Chlorophora respectively.
Subsequently a large number of new species, new varieties and forms
have been described from different parts of the world. Today, Murus
comprises of about 68 species distributed both in tropical and
temperate agro climatic conditions. However, the identity and
nomenclature of the species of Murus is so confusing the numbers of
species growing in the world keep fluctuating.

The species of Murus, being highly heterozygous and as unisexual

plants produce a number of natural hybrids with many intermediate
forms which create difficulties with regard to their correct taxonomic
delimitations. Regarding the origin of Murus, Parker (1818) opined that
the genus was probably indigenous to China and was later naturalized
to West Asia, Southern Europe and America. Janaki Ammal (1948)
considered China as the center of its origin. Bane and Karoo (1975);
Anil Dhār and Ahsan (1989) were of the opinion that the sub-Himalayan
region of India may be the probable place of origin of the genus Murus.
There are about 68 species in the genus Murus, majority of them occur
in Asia, especially in China (24 species) and Japan (19 species).
Continental America is also rich in its Murus species. The genus is
poorly represented in Africa, Europe and Middle East and it is
unrepresented in Australia. Thus, one can witness a great varied
distribution pattern of the species, varieties and forms of the genus on
this globe.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Silk production today is a blend of ancient techniques and modern

innovations. The first stage of silk production is hatching the silkworm
eggs, which have been previously examined and shown to be free from
disease. Larvae are then fed cut-up mulberry leaves and after the
fourth mount climb a twig placed near them and spin their silken
cocoons. The silk is a continuous filament fiber consisting of fibroin
protein secreted from two salivary glands in the head of each larva, and
a gum called servicing, which cements the two filaments together.
Pupae within cocoons are killed by steam or fumigation to prevent
adult emergence, which would cut and tangle the silk filaments.
Cocoons are later softened in hot water to remove the servicing, thus
freeing silk filaments for reeling. Single filaments are drawn from
cocoons in water bowls and combined to form yarn. This yarn is drawn
under tension through several guides and eventually wound on to reels.
The yarn is dried, packed according to quality, and is now raw silk ready
for marketing.

World silk production has approximately doubled during the last 30

years in spite of man - made fibers replacing silk for some uses. China
and Japan during this period have been the two main producers,
together manufacturing more than 50% of the world production in each
year. China during the late 1970’s drastically increased its silk
production and became the world’s leading producer of silk. The 1070’s
were a period of tumultuous political and social upheaval in China,
resulting in various economic reforms. Undoubtedly, these reforms are
partially responsible for China’s increased silk production. Thus the
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

country that first developed sericulture approximately 4.700 years ago

has again become the world’ main producer of silk.

Sericulture In India
Mulberry sericulture is mainly practised in states such as Karnataka,
Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Bodoland (Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa and
Udalguri districts of Assam), West Bengal, Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu
who are the major silk producing states in the country.

India is the second-largest producer of silk in the world. The country's

sericulture industry employs around 9.76 million people in rural and
semi-urban areas. The industry is one of the largest foreign exchange
earners for the country. The sericulture activities in India are spread
across 52,360 villages.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

India is the second largest producer of silk in the world after China.
About 97% of the raw silk comes from five Indian states, namely,
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu and West
Bengal with Karnataka as the major producer.

Nestled along the banks of the majestic Ganges River, Bhagalpur is a

city of great commercial importance, especially in the context of Tussah
silk. This city's silk, often referred to as “Bhagalpur silk,” is renowned
not only within Indian but also around the world.

History of sericulture in Karnataka

Silkworm eggs and the technology of making silk, was brought to India
by Buddhist monks from China through Koran. Also, the industry is said
to have spread to Tibet when a Chinese Princess, carrying silkworm
eggs and mulberry seed in her hair dress, married the king of Koran in
Tibet.

About two and half centuries ago silk was introduced in to Karnataka by
Tipp Sultan, the ruler of the state. Today it is the biggest silk producing
center in India. Sericulture introduced in Tamil Nadu from the border
area of Karnataka during early 1960. Now Tamil Nadu stands number
one in beltline silk production in India.

The Mysore silk is synonymous with splendor and grandeur. Mysore silk
has been registered as geographical indicator. Karnataka sericulture has
a history of more than 215 years. In 1785, the Tiger of Mysore, Tipp
Sultan established sericulture in Mysore kingdom. He wanted Mysore
to be the foremost among silk producing nations. During these years
Karnataka sericulture has been many ups and downs in its long journey.
It has transformed in to a model in sericulture in the country. During
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

early 19th century while the world sericulture was collapsing, Mysore
sericulture varieties perished remained stable through this period, and
even today it is the back bone of mulberry sericulture in India. In 1800
the Mysore Royal Government established sericulture in Mogenahally
near Channapatna, which became the center of sericulture activities
soon. In 1860, first silk filature was established in Bangalore by an
Italian industrialist. During this period many exotic Italian or Chinese or
Japanese races were used to produce cross breed layings by this
filature. In 1896, great industrialist Sir J. N. Tata established a silk farm
with a filature attached to it in Japanese pattern, in Bangalore, with the
help of Sri K, Sheshadri Ayyar, the Diwan of Mysore. He got the
technical expertise from Japanese couple Mr. and Mrs Odzu, who gave
scientific outlook for the sericulture industry. Mr. Odzu trained Sri. V.
M. Appadhorai Mudaliar and Sri. Lakshman Rao for a period of one year
in this farm.

The Architect of Mysore Sri M. Vishveshwaraiah gave much importance

to sericulture in rural development. He hired the services of Signor
Washington Mari from Italy to organize and develop silk industry in
Mysore in 1913. Signor Mari made available 12 varieties of pure
European and Chinese silkworms to conduct experiments. Under the
guidance of Signor Mari, Appadhorai Mudaliar conducted native
environment breeding experiments in Channapatna. They successfully
developed many cross breed combinations between females of
Mysore Local (Pure Mysore) and males of European and Chinese races,
which were far superior to their parents. In 1914, Signor Mari shifted
his headquarters to Bangalore, and Muda liar continued to carry out
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

the breeding experiments in Channapatna farm. In 1914 independent

Department of sericulture was established and Signor Washington Mari
became the first Director of sericulture. In 1919, Government hired the
services of Japanese expert, Mr. Yonemura for conducting research and
imparting training in sericulture. Government started silk filature in
1922 and silk weaving factory in 1931 - 32 at Mysore.

During later part of 1970’s under ISDP and during 1980’s under World
Bank aided two sericulture projects department of sericulture took up
extensive expansion programmes. Infrastructures like, grain ages,
Technical Service Centre (TSC) and cocoon markets were established.

Present Status of Sericulture

Sericulture emerged as a meaningful and viable agro-based cottage
industry. It is being practicing in more than 30 countries across tropical
and temperate regions produce silk, their combined production adds up
to about 75,000 Metric Tonnes of raw silk in a year. Presently China,
India, Japan, South Korea and Brazil are the leading silk producing
countries. Japan which was once a leading silk producer until 1978. At
present it is producing less than that of India and occupies only the
third place in world raw silk production and slowly shifted to other
commercial enterprises. China is temperate country, rank first in the
world raw silk production an account for 53, 432 Metric Tonnes, among
tropical countries, India is rank second in the world mulberry raw silk
production of the major producer of silk an accounting for 14, 305
Metric Tonnes of raw silk from 1,76, 065 hectares of mulberry garden
annually. World silk production has approximately doubled during the
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

last 30 years in spite of man- made fibres replacing silk for some uses.
China and Japan during this period have been the two main producers,
together manufacturing more than 50% of the world production each
year. During the late 1970’s China, the country that first developed
sericulture thousands years ago dramatically increased its silk
production and has again become the world’s leading producer of silk.

Directly and indirectly sericulture is providing jobs for about 10.67 lakh
peoples. One hectare of mulberry garden provides year long continuous
job for 13 persons. Karnataka has well established multivoltine and
beltline seed areas. They cater to the demand of parental seed cocoons
required for the production of cross breed and beltline hybrid layings.
Almost 88% of Karnataka sericulture is spread in southern part of
Karnataka, which is fast modernizing. Factors like urbanization,
industrialization, depleting water table, scarcity of agriculture labour
have affected sericulture in this part.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

 To know the types and cultivation of mulberry in the study area

 To know the planning and prospects of mulberry cultivation in the

mysore taluk

 To understand the mulberry cultivated, source of water, use of

fertilizers,

METHODOLOGY
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

The primary data as well as secondary data are used for the present
study in order to analyze the development of sericulture .The primary
data were collected from Department of Sericulture,

The secondary data were collected from the Google, Articals, Some
books, the growth of sericulture were analyzed with the help of these
data.

Advantages of Sericulture :
 High Employment Potential:Sericulture Farming can generate vast
employment and is used as a tool for rural economic
reconstruction.

 Provides Vibrancy to Rural Economy: It is estimated that about

57% of the gross value of silk fabrics flows back to cocoon growers

 High Employment Potential:Only sericulture can generate vast

employment. No other industry generates this kind of
employment. Hence, it is used as a tool for rural economic
reconstruction.

 Provides Vibrancy to Rural Economy: It is estimated that about

57% of the gross value of silk fabrics flow back to cocoon growers,
who in general are rural people with share of income to different
groups as follows : 56.8% to cocoon growers; 6.8% to the reelers,
9.1% to the twisters; 10.7% to the weavers; 16.6% to the trade.
Thus, large amount of income from silk industry goes back to
villages from the citis.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

 Low Gestation, High Returns: Investment of only Rs. 12,000 to Rs.

15,000 (excluding cost of land and rearing space) for mulberry
cultivation and silkworm rearing in one acre of irrigated land can
generate net income levels up to Rs. 30,000/acre/ annum.

 Women-friendly Occupation: Different activities of sericulture

starting from mulberry garden management, leaf harvesting and
silkworm rearing even reeling and weaving can effectively be
supported by women workers. In India, it has been found that
over 60% of sericulture employees constitutes the women folk.

 Eco-Friendly Properties:

(i) Soil preservation:Being perennial plant with green foliage, mulberry

contributes to soil preservation and provides vast green covers,

(ii) Manures:Wastes from silk worm rearing can be recycled for

mulberry garden preparation as manures,

(iii) Fuel source:Dried mulberry twigs and branches can be used as fuels
by the farmers, thus in turn can reduce the pressure on nearby
vegetation or forest,

(iv) Pollution control: Being an agro-based industry, it requires

minimum use of fuel machinery, thus reduces air pollution,

(v) Integrated farming: With other plantations like flower, vegetables,

mulberry can be cultivated as intercrop, thus same land can be used for
various productions,
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

(vi) Uses of land: Besides cultivation lands, water shade areas, hill
slopes, vacant lands, etc. can also be used for the deep-rooted
mulberry plants.

Facilities for Seri-Culturists:

Besides providing field and educational trainings, Regional Extension

Centres and Technical Service Centres of both State and Central
Sericulture Boards supply advanced-staged larvae to the rearers;
rearing appliances and other raw materials like mulberry samplings are
supplied at nominal cost to the rearers. Incentive bonus is offered to
bivoltine rearers.

Crop insurance schemes have been offered specially to bivoltine

farmers to protect against any failure. In remote rural areas, farmers
are supplied with pamphlets or other essential details of methods of
rearing, use of bed disinfectants, insecticides, etc.

disadvantages of Sericulture:
 Sericulture uses various techniques which can be harmful to
farmers,

 rearing process is carbon monoxide that can cause skin allergies,

 irritation and respiratory problems. Most of these farms run in

rural areas where no strict rules for hygienic farming are followed

 high cost, fragility, difficult maintenance.

 Geographical distribution of sericulture

 Since the Sericulture requires closed rooms, workers have to work

in rooms with poor ventilation.

 This results in the respiratory problems to those workers.

Workers handle the dead worms with their bare hands. This will
lead to different illness and infection.

 severe cases, the patient will have a rash all over the body, pain
in the abdomen, nausea, chills, low blood pressure, ... if not
treated promptly, it can lead to death.

CHAPTER-2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

In this chapter a review of past research in the field has been complled
to enable better understanding of the problems concerned with the
study and presented in this chapter.

Krishnaswamy et al (1970):- conducted studies on the quality of

mulberry leaves and silkworm cocoon crop production. Silkworm crop
production was affected by a variety of factors such as variety of
mulberry, season, irrigation, manurial application, pruning, maturity of
the leaf and so on.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Krishnaswamy et al (1970):- studied the quality of mulberry leaves and

silkworm cocoon crop production. On the basis of results they
recommend that much attention needs to be paid to mulberry
cultivation and tender and succulent leaves should be harvested in time
before the nutritive quality deteriorates due to over maturity.

Das and Sikdar (1970):- have evaluated the leaf quality of three
improved varieties with two strains of silkworms and found that there
is no significant difference in their effect on the effective rate of rearing,
cocoon weight, shell weight, shell percentage, filament length and
denier. The actual consumption of leaves of improved strains was
significantly less than that of the control without any adverse effect on
cocoon characters.

Tikoo et a[ (1971):- conducted large-scale trials on the comparative

performance of multivoltine x bivoltine hybrids of mulberry silkworm in
Mysore state. They conclude that the ten different combinations with
Pure Mysore as female parent were not significantly different in respect
of all important characters. This, in other words, means that the newly
introduced P3 raceswhich are continuously reared in the plains, without
proper attention to maintenance of their economic characters are in no
way superior to the existing races like C.Nichi, HS6 or newly evolved
races like Kolar Gold and NS4.

Sengupta et al (1973):- further studied the effect of spacingduring

rearing on the larval and cocoon characters of some multivoltine
breeds of silkworm, Bombvx mori.L In trays of 2.5’ x 2' the characters
progressively improved when the number of larvae was brought down
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

from 400 to 100; though in general the groups 100-200 behaved much
better. This trend in many cases existed upto 300 worms per tray. On
this basis the requirement of space per 100 dfls reared (30,000 larvae
after 4th moult) comes to about 500 sq.ft. This being, based on cellular
rearing, a spacing of two-thirds of it or 300- 350 sq.ft, per 100 dfls has
been recommended for bulk commercial rearing

Tayade et al (1974):- conducted studies to identify a suitable mulberry

variety as well as the quality difference of leaves due to maturity with
respect to improving the economic characters of cocoons. He observed
that leaves of S54 variety are superior in improving the cocoon weight
and cocoon yield. The possibilities of rearing mulberry silkworm under
Marathwada conditions and working out the profitability ratio for
input/output as 1:2.54 was reported by Tayade (1978) by adopting
improved rearing techniques suggested by Krishnaswamy (1978). At the
first large scale commercial rearing conducted by the Marathwada
Agricultural University, Parbhani during Jan./Feb. 1979, 400 dfls were
reared and 117 kgs cocoons were produced (Tayade, 1978). Further,
Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board (MSKVIB) has
tried its commercial cultivation for the last 2 years at few places of
western Maharashtra. Marathwada region is a non-traditional area for
mulberry silkworm. In order to explore the feasibility of rearing
mulberry silkworm in this region, small trials were conducted in the
laboratory (Tayade, 1978). The mass rearing was started from
September, 1977 onwards providing chopped mulberry leaves in the
early stage and entire leaves during the later stages, in sufficient
quantity at the rate of four feedings/day. During 1978-79 about 150
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

farmers in an area of 180 acres have taken up mulberry plantation in

Marathwada due to the encouraging results obtained in the previous
year (Tayade, 1978).

Vishwanath and Krishnamurthy (1982-83):- studied the influence of

micro-nutrients on larval development and cocoon characters of
silkworm (Bombvx mori.L.) making use of a bivoltine race Kalimpong-
A(KA) for assessing the quality of leaves during 1976 for two seasons.
The results on feeding trials indicated that the mulberry leaves sprayed
with micronutrients did not have any detrimental effect on larval
development and cocoon characters. However, silkworm larvae fed
with magnesium (5.0 kg/ha) sprayed leaves tended to give better
cocoon yield (401 kg/ha) and cocoon weight (1.54 g) as compared to
control (1.4 g).

Tayade and Jawale (1984) :- studied the comparative merits of 4

varieties of mulberry viz., K2, S34, Kosen and LM2 and their effect on
the cocoon qualities of Bivoltine race i.e., NB7, NB18 and hybrid race
(PM x NB18). The S54 showed higher values in characters like larval
duration, larval weight, single cocoon weight and cocoon yield. The
hybrid PM x NB18 proved superior in cocoon yield.

Oziashvili, (1984) :- described the problem of rearing the silkworm for

silk production. Long term observations in conditions of silk production
in the USSR showed that males of the silkworm (Bombvx mori.L.) and
pupae with higher fat contents and thicker cocoon membranes,
produced more silk with better technological characteristics than
females of the same strains and hybrids.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Behura and Panda (1984):- made, a study on the rearing performance

of five multivoltine races of the mulberry silkworm Bombvx mori.L. in
Orissa and gave an account of the comparative rearing performance of
the multivoltine races L2 + 3 (O), Yellow, Oval (S), M3 and HM of
Bombvx mori.L.. a species that is not reared usually for silk production
in the state. Larval growth was slow and mortality high, in all the five
races. According to them this was possibly because of the low protein
content of the mulberry leaves on which they were fed, and also
because of extreme fluctuations of temperature and humidity and
disease.

Teli et al (1984):- have carried out the studies at Kolhapur,

Maharashtra, India, in 1981. It was obsrved that bivoltine hybrids (NB7
x NB18) were more efficient than Wai strains (Wai-1 and Wai-4) in
converting mulberry leaves into silk. However, larvae of the hybrids
were more susceptible to disease than those of the Wai strains.
Mohammad Saleem and Manzoor-UI-Haq (1984) have indicated that
when leaves of the Morus alba, laevigata, indica and sinenta varieties
were fed to larvae of Bombvx mori.L.. larval weight gain, cocoon weight
and co-efficient of utilization (leaves consumed vs, faeces produced) in
the 3rd and 4th instars were highest for variety, laevigata.

Venugopal Pillai and Jolly (1985):- made an evaluation of the quality of

mulberry varieties raised under hill conditions and the crop results of
Bombvx mori.L. Further analysis on the quantity and quality of leaf
produced from different mulberry varieties (S54, K2, MR2, Roso and
Kosen) raised under hill conditions were made. Overall feeding results
using multivoitine (Hosa Mysore) and bivoltine (KA) silkworm breeds
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

indicated that the feed quality of MR2 is comparatively better than the
other varieties.

Karaivanov et al (1985):- during the spring of the years 1982 and 1983
made efforts to establish the extent of the negative effect, the
disturbed environmental factors might have on the biological traits and
technological properties in silkworm hybrids. They recommended strict
observance of feeding conditions and maintenance during the first
instars of higher temperature and humidity and during the last instars
at lower temperature and humidity, with regular feeding and
ventilation.

Bari et al (1985):- investigated the feeding effects of mulberry varieties

on silkworms in different seasons of the year. The results indicated that
mulberry varieties significantly affect the cocoon characters. The
different varieties of mulberry responded differently in different
seasons of the year. Highest cocoon and shell weight were obtained
when larvae were fed on MV-5, but highest shell weight ratio was
obtained when they were fed on MV-8. MV-3 was more sensitive to
change in the factors studied. MV-5, with low b value and high means
for cocoon and shell weight, might be favoured for higher silk yield.

Jolly (1986):- observed that the average raw silk production per
hectare, in India (26.3 kg) continues to be far below the level of
production achieved in developed countries like Japan (133.0 kg). The
implications of traditional methodologies followed and the directional
impact of the research and development in improving the sericulture
industry are discussed.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Srinivasan (1986) :- indicated that the cultivation of mulberry needs to

be practiced as per the norms laid down. The soil testing is one of the
basic requirements to ensure good yield. Jolly et a] (1986) studied the
introduction of PCN, a new breed suited to rainfed conditions.

Pershad et al (1986):- studied the performance of multivoltine races of

Bombvx mori.L. and made analysis of variance which showed that races
and seasons were significant for all characters, while interactions of
races x seasons were significant for fecundity and pupation rate during
all seasons.

Gupta et a| (1986):- stated that the farmers were able to get 78% more
mulberry foliage by cultivating the variety S-799 than by continuing to
plant cv, Kajali, in studies made in West Bengal, India. This increase
enabled them to rear double the number of larvae of silkworm
(Bombvx mori.L.). By supplying 2nd-instar larvae produced by the
chawki rearing system (i.e., eggs reared at 27°C and 80% RH) to
farmers, 35% more cocoons could be produced than by traditional
methods of rearing. Similarly, rearers obtained a 35% bigger yield by
using the F1 progeny of a hybrid strain of the silkworm than by using
the local strain (Nistari). The authors indicate the economics of
adopting the new technology

Muslin (1986):- described three overlapping silkworm rearings of

Japanese F1 hybrid race (Shunre x Shogestsu) conducted under local
conditions during the months of February-April, 1984. The cocoon ratio
94.67% and 94.89% and cocoon shell ratio 23% and 22.21% in respect
of the first rearing during February 18 to March 19 and second rearing
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

during March 3 to March 30, respectively, were considered quite

satisfactory. The same being 75% and 19.64% in respect of third rearing
during March 20 to April 17 were considered on lower side.

Koundinya (1987):- has reviewed the sericulture practices in Surat

district. Sastri et al (1987) studied the economics of the size of the
sericulture industry in Chitoor. Sharma (1987) described the. Sericulture
development in Rajasthan. Siddappaji et al (1987) made the field
evaluation of mulberry silkworm races in Karnataka and Singh (1987)
described the extension as a tool to popularise sericulture.

Ramakrishna (1987):- carried out studies in T.S.Hally, Jagamohanahally

and Sugatur. The data were collected with the help of designed
questionnaire from 60 respondents. The total cost of maintenance of
one ha mulberry garden was more in T.S.Hally (Rs.11,183.86) than
Jagamohanally (Rs. 9,914.56) and Sugatur (Rs. 9,418.75). Kabir (1987)
described the package of practices for mulberry cultivation in West
Bengal.

Himantharaj et a] (1995) :- described the assessment of mulberry leaf

yield and estimation of brushing capacity. Radha (1995) listed the
factors influencing cocoon productivity. Chikkanna et al (1995) have
undertaken study to assess the extent of adoption of improved
sericultural practices by sericulturists to study sericulturists'
characteristics associated with the adoption and to identify the
constraints affecting the adoption. The results showed that the level of
adoption was higher for the practices of FYM application, spacing in late
age silkworm rearing and disinfection, whereas the adoption was
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

low/poor for practices of application of fertilizers, spacing in chawki

rearing and incubation care.

The adoption level among different categories of farmers was in order

of big farmers > small farmers > marginal farmers. Lack of separate
rearing house, non-availability of quality layings, non-remunerative
price for cocoons, non-availability of finance and unawareness of
technology were the main reasons identified for non-adoption.

Methods of cultivation of mulberries

Mulberry is mostly propagated through cuttings. Cuttings may be
planted straight away in the main field itself or nursery may be raised
and the sprouted and rooted saplings may be planted in the main field.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

The latter method is advisable because of its easy establishment in the

main field.

Climatic requirement
The ideal temperature should be between 24 and 28oC with relative
humidity of 65 to 80 percent and sun shine duration of 5 to 12 hours
per day. Mulberry can be grown in a rainfall range of 600mm to
2500mm. Under low rainfall conditions, the growth is limited and
requires supplemental irrigation.
Rainfall
Mulberry grows well in places with an annual rainfall ranging from 600
to 2 500 mm. In areas with low rainfall, growth is limited through
moisture stress, resulting in low yields. On average, mulberry requires
340m3/ha of water every ten days in case of loamy soils and 15 days in
clayey soils.
Suitable soil for mulberry cultivation
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Mulberry flourishes well in soils that are flat, deep, fertile, well drained,
loamy to clayey, and porous with a good moisture holding capacity. The
ideal range of soil pH is 6.2 to 6.8. Mulberry can be grown in saline,
alkaline and acidic soils after suitably amending the soils.
Mulberry trees tolerate a wide variety of soils so long as they are well
drained and moderately rich with a pH around 6.3-6.8.

Types Of Mulberry:-
White mulberry has a higher amount of C19:1n6 and C19:1n7 fatty
acids compared to black and red mulberries. These fatty acids are
important for various physiological functions in the body and are
essential components of a healthy diet.

BLACK MULBERRY Red MULBERRY WHITE MULBERRY

Silkworm
The insect producing mulberry silk is a domesticated variety of
silkworms, which has been exploited for over 4000 years. All the strains
reared at present belong to the species Bombyx mori that in believed to
be derived from the original Mandarina silkworm, Bombyx mandarina
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Moore.Mulberry silk is the finest quality of silk. Q. Cultivation of

silkworms to produce silk is known
Bombyx mori, commonly known as the domestic silk moth, is a moth
species belonging to the family Bombycidae. It is the closest relative of
Bombyx mandarina, the wild silk moth. Silkworms are the larvae of silk
moths. The silkworm is of particular economic value, being a primary
producer of silk. The silkworm's preferred food are the leaves of white
mulberry, though they may eat other species of mulberry, and even
leaves of other plants like the osage orange. Domestic silk moths are
entirely dependent on humans for reproduction, as a result of millennia
of selective breeding. Wild silk moths, which are other species of
Bombyx, are not as commercially viable in the production of silk.
Sericulture, the practice of breeding silkworms for the production of
raw silk, has existed for at least 5,000 years in China,[1] whence it
spread to India, Korea, Nepal, Japan, and then the West. The
conventional process of sericulture kills the silkworm in the pupal stage.
[2] The domestic silk moth was domesticated from the wild silk moth
Bombyx mandarina, which has a range from northern India to northern
China, Korea, Japan, and the far eastern regions of Russia. The domestic
silk moth derives from Chinese rather than Japanese or Korean stock.
The life cycle of a silkworm
The life cycle of a silkworm consists of a total of 5 stages - egg,
silkworm, cocoon, pupa, and the moth. After the formation of a fully
grown female moth at the last stage, the process again begins and
continues.
 Stage 1: Egg. An egg is the first stage of the life cycle of the
silkworm. ...
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

 Stage 2: Silkworm. A hairy silkworm arises after the eggs crack. ...
 Stage 3: Cocoon. In this stage, silkworms spin a protective cocoon
around itself. ...
 Stage 4: Pupa. The pupa stage is a motionless stage. ...
 Stage 5: Moth.

Egg:-
An egg is the first stage of the life cycle of the silkworm. The egg is laid
by a female moth which is mostly the size of small dots. A female moth
lays more than 350 eggs at a time. In the springtime, the eggs hatch
due to the warmth in the air.
How long does it take silkworm eggs to hatch
The eggs should take around 7-21 days to hatch and should be kept
somewhere warm but out of direct sunlight, at around 24 degrees
Celsius. You may notice the eggs change from a grey/purple colour to a
blue colour, this means they are getting ready to hatch.How long does
it take silkworm eggs to hatch?

received my silkworm eggs, but I am not ready to use them. Can I

refrigerate them? Yes, you can prevent the eggs from hatching by
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

refrigerating them at 10° C (50° F). Be careful not to expose them to

temperatures lower than that or they may not hatch

cocoon
The silkworms have eaten between 18 and 20 kilos of mulberry leaves
to make this quantity of cocoons. 77% to 80% of the weight of the
cocoon is taken up by the pupa. The pupa is not necessarily a waste
product as it is full of protein and can be used for food.
The process by which silk thread is separated from the cocoon is known
as reeling the silk. Reeling is carried out with special machines, which
leads to the unwinding of the threads or fibres of silk from the cocoon
and the silk fibres are then spun into silk threads, which are woven into
the silk cloth by weavers.

For the production of mulberry silk, the sericulture process follows

three primary steps. Moriculture – the cultivation of mulberry leaves.
Silkworm rearing – promoting the growth of the silkworm. Silk reeling –
the extraction of silk filaments from the silkworm cocoons.

Pupae
Pupae are the juvenile and adult stages of certain insects. Silk eggs
hatch into caterpillars or larvae. Silkworms produce pupa by eating
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

mulberry leaves. The silkworm creates a net to hold together in the

pupa stage.
pupa, life stage in the development of insects exhibiting complete
metamorphosis that occurs between the larval and adult stages
(imago). During pupation, larval structures break down, and adult
structures such as wings appear for the first time.

A cocoon is simply the protective covering around a pupa or chrysalis. It

is a protective silk covering spun by the larvae of an insect for
protection as pupae. This isn't to be confused with a shell, which is the
protection some butterflies have instead of a cocoon

Silkworm
The life cycle of silk moth starts when a female silk moth lays eggs. The
caterpillar or larvae are hatched from the eggs of the silk moth. The
silkworms feed on mulberry leaves and give rise to pupa. In the pupa
stage, a weave is netted around by the silkworm to hold itself.
In this process, silkworm larvae are fed with mulberry leaves, and after
the fourth moult, they climb a twig placed near them and spin their
silken cocoons. Then the cocoon is treated with boiling water and then
silk is unwound from the cocoon delicately.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

AroundThe silkworm (Bombyx mori) is the larva or caterpillar of the

Bombyx mori moth. Silde for at least 5000 years in China. The moth is
important because it makes the silk, and no longer lives in the wild. It is
entirely dependent on humans. Silkworms eat mulberry leaves, 10 kg of
cocoon produces 1 kg of silk.

Silkmoth
silkworm moth, (Bombyx mori), lepidopteran whose caterpillar has
been used in silk production (sericulture) for thousands of years.
Although native to China, the silkworm has been introduced
throughout the world and has undergone complete domestication, with
the species no longer being found in the wild.
Domesticated silk moths do not have the ability to fly because their
bodies are too big and heavy for their smaller wings. Wild silk moths
typically use their wings to fly away from predators, domestic silk
moths usually don't face this threat and so their need to fly is lessened.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

In Asian countries – where most

Silk comes from – most farmers raise in excess of 200,000 to 1,000,000
Silkworms at any one time. Street vendors in China roast the pupae.
The Chinese also use the dried bodies of silkworms to produce a
medicine intended to relieve flatulence and bodily spasms as well as
dissolve phlegm.

Types of silkworms:-
It then describes the five major types of silkworms used for commercial
silk production - mulberry, tasar, oak tasar, eri, and muga. Each type of
silkworm is discussed in 1-2 paragraphs, including what they feed on
and where they are produced. The stages of silk production from egg to
cocoon harvesting are summarized. There are many different species of
silkworms found. For example Mulberry silkworm, airy silkworm, giant
silkworm etcetera. The insect which produces silk is called silkworm.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Mulberry Silkworm
The insect producing mulberry silk is a domesticated variety of
silkworms, which has been exploited for over 4000 years. All the strains
reared at present belong to the species Bombyx mori that in believed to
be derived from the original Mandarina silkworm, Bombyx mandarina
Moore. China in the native place of this silk worm, but now it has been
introduced in all the silk producing countries like Japan, India, Korea,
Italy, France and Russia.
The races of mulberry silk worm may be identified on the basis of
geographical distribution as Japanese, Chinese, European or Indian
origin; or as Uni-, Bi- or Multivoltine depending upon the number of
generations produced in a year under natural conditions; or as Tri-,
Tetra- and Penta-moulters according to the number of moults that
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

occur during larval growth; or as pure strain and hybrid variety

according to genetic recombination.
Tasar silkworm silk
scientific name for Tasar silkworm Antheraea mylitta.
Tasar cocoons are the largest among all the silk-producing insects in the
world and their silk fibre has its own distinctive colour, higher tensile
strength, elongation and stress-relaxation values than the mulberry silk
fibre; tasar silk also protects from bad effects of ultraviolet rays.
Tussar silk is produced in several states in India, including West Bengal,
Bihar, Orissa, and Jharkhand. These states are known for their rich
tradition of silk production, and tussar silk is an important part of this
tradition. Tussar sarees are also produced in other countries, including
Nepal, China, and Thailand.It is a type of wild silk, which is made from
silkwormsthat feed on plants like Asan and Arjun. People from different
parts of India call it tusaar, tusser, tushar, tusa, tassore, and tasar etc.
Eri silkworm
Eri silk (Khasi: Ryndia) is the product of the domesticated silkworm
Samia ricini, found mainly in North East India and some part of China
and Japan. It was imported to Thailand in 1974. The name "eri" is
derived from the Assamese word "era", which means "castor", as the
silkworm feeds on castor plants.
Eri silk is a protein fibre derived from cocoons made by the Samia
Cynthia Ricini moth or Philosamia Ricini moth. It is 100% natural and is
one of the four major silks being produced. Predominantly found in
Meghalaya and other northeast states of India it is also considered a
Vanya (wild) silk.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Eri silk rearing (and another silk rearing) and the making of silk is
extremely labor-intensive, constituting so many meticulous and
cumbersome steps that include: Selecting the best quality cocoons for
seed. Moth production out of the seed cocoons. Mating of the moths
within 12-24 hours.
Muga silkworm
Like other Lepidopterans, muga silkworm is a holometabolous insect
passing through a complete metamorphosis from egg (Koni) to adult
(Chakari) stage through two intermediate stages of larva (Polu) and
Pupa (Leta). The entire life cycle lasts for about 50 days in summer and
120 days in winter.
Muga silk, the queen of all fabrics, is the most precious natural silk fiber
on earth. It is well known for its fine texture, durability, high tensile
strength and lustrous golden yellow color. Unlike other textiles, the
golden yellow color, and shine of Muga silk increase with every wash.
It comes from the cocoons of muga moths that feed on som trees. A
saree made with muga silk can cost $6,500, thousands more than other
saris. But the caterpillars needed to make it are in danger.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

CHAPTER – 4

STADY AREA
History of Mysore
Mysore was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore until 1950, except in
the 18th century when Haidar Ali and Tipu Sultan were the defacto
rulers for a 40-year period. Mysore state continued to be ruled by
Maharaja H.H. Jaya Chamaraja Wadiyar till Mysore became part of
Indian Republic on 26-1-1950.

Mysore is situated at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills. At an altitude

of 770 m (2,530 ft) above mean sea level, the city of Mysore is
geographically located at 12° 18′ 26″ north latitude and 76° 38 ′ 59″ east
longitude. It is about 140 km (87.0 mi) southwest of the state's capital,
Bangalore, and spreads across an area of 156 km2 (60 sq mi)(City +
neighbouring census towns).[8] The population of the city combined
with its neighbouring towns in its metropolitan area is about 1,288,000
in 2023.

Most of the city's development during modern times could be

attributed to the maharajas of Mysore and the Wadiyar dynasty, who
were patrons of art and culture. Hyder Ali and Tipu, when they were
briefly in power in succession, also contributed significantly to the
economic growth of the city and the kingdom by planting mulberry
trees and silk in the region, and fighting four wars against the British. In
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

present days, the Mysore City Corporation is responsible for the civil
administration of the city.

Mysore TALUK MAP

The name Mysore is an anglicised form of Mahiṣūru, which means "the

abode of Mahiṣa" in the vernacular Kannada. The common noun
Mahiṣa, in Sanskrit, means buffalo; in this context, however, Mahiṣa
refers to Mahishasura, a mythical demon who could assume the form
of either a human or a buffalo, and who, according to Hindu mythology,
ruled the ancient parts of Mysore Kingdom, known in Sanskrit as
Mahiṣaka, centred at Mahiṣapura. He was killed by the goddess
Chamundeshwari, whose temple is situated atop the Chamundi Hills,
after whom it is named. 'Mahishapura' later became Mahisūru, and
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

finally came to be rendered as Mysore by the British and Maisūru

(Mysuru) in the vernacular Kannada language

Rainfall in Mysore TALUK

Mysore typically receives about 140.02 millimeters (5.51 inches) of
precipitation and has 179.64 rainy days (49.22% of the time) annually.

Taluk Normal (mm) Actual %DEP

/Hobli (mm)
Mysuru 234 189 -19
Mysuru 234 225 -4
Elivala 228 182 -20
jayapura 208 163 -22
Varuna 214 189 -12

Climate in Mysore
Today's minimum temperature in Mysore is recorded at 22°c degrees
celsius, and the maximum temperature is expected to go as high as
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

29°c degrees celsius. Throughout the day, the temperature is likely to

hover around 29°c degrees celsius.

The mean maximum temperature is 30.9°C and the minimum

temperature is 21°C. ... In general, ground water quality in Mysore taluk
is good for drinking purpose.

SOIL
The soil types of the district are grouped in to three viz., the red sandy
soils, red loamy soils and deep black soils. Almost entire district is
covered by red sandy soil except for small parts of T. Narsipur taluk.

The Taluk of Mysuru is an undulating table land that is partly covered

by granite outcrops and fringed with lush green forests. The city is at
770m above sea level and 140kms from Bangalore, the state capital.
Mysuru has an area of 6,307 sq km and a population of 30,01,127

Importance of soil testing

 Soil test should be done every year before and after
establishment of mulberry plantation
 Red soil mixed with sand is suitable for cultivation of
mulberry
 Besad on the soil test resuits, the soil can be correcte
fertilizers can be given.
 Black soil suitable for growing s34 rain sheltered variety and
red soil for growing s13 variety.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

Mysore silkworm reraing

Normal white silkworm eggs produce white cocoon the standard of
silkworms. All our eggs are produced exclusively for us, you will not find
better quality eggs or variety anywhere else. Silkworm eggs are
available year around, the normal white silkworm egg is standard stock
item. varkudu, dadipura, gopalpura,megalpura varuna hobli white
cocoon silkworm, because this silkworm reraing easy and standard
stock item

All races of this group are univoltine, and eggs are big and heavy
compared with the other races. The larval marking is lightly normal, and
silkworm larvae eat mulberry leaves actively. The duration of larval
stage, especially 5th instar stage is long and long larval body. The larvae
grow fat easily but slightly difficult to rear as they are sensible to bad
environment, pebrine, muscardine and C type virus disease. They spin
large and long oval cocoons with little constriction, and double cocoons
are rare. The majority of cocoons are white or flesh colored. The
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

cocoon shell weight of this race is high and cocoon filament is long,
with much sericin and good reelability. chatradkopplu,
madahalli,mulluru this area the cocoon shell weight of this race is high
and filament is long.
YEAR CROSSBREED HYBRID BIVALTINE PURE BIVALTINE
BIVALTINE
2019- 2020 14825 271710 17085
2020-2021 4835 222895 18295
2021-2022 1075 187527 018640
2022-2023 1190 209467 24945
2023-2024 570 242902 23580

Keeping the requirement of the industry in view, various countries have

developed breeds / hybrids to suit their local agro climatic conditions to
increase the quality and productivity. In this context, silkworm breeds /
hybrids play a very important role in the development of sericulture
industry.
Bivoltine: Suitable for warmer places. Larval duration shorter compared
to univoltines. Larva is robust, cocoon and silk quality is good.
Moderately suitable to high temperature and high humidity.
Polyvoltine: Adaptable to warmer places, larval duration is shorter,
larva is robust, small cocoon, silk quality is poor.
Role of the Department

Sericulture Department was established on

1914 In Karnataka
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

The Department has been playing an important

role in the development of sericulture activities in
the mysore taluk. The following are some of the
important services rendered by the Department:
1.Providing technical guidance and training in
sericultural activities viz, mulberry cultivation,
silkworm rearing and silk reeling etc.,
2.Multiplication and supply of high yielding
mulberry varieties and silkworm races
developed by the Research Institutes to
sericulturists.
3.Maintenance of basic seed material and
organizing supply of disease free layings (DFLs)
to the sericulturists.
4.Providing extension, chawki rearing and
disease control services.
5.Liaising with financial institutions to obtain
loans for sericulture activities to sericulturists
and reelers.
6.Facilitating marketing of cocoons and raw silk.
7.Motivating to adopt improved and proven
technologies to bring down cost of production
by increasing production and productivity of
quality cocoons and gradable silk.
8.Strengthening sericulture research and
development activities.
 Geographical distribution of sericulture

9.Providing subsidy for installation of Automatic

Reeling Machines (ARM) to produce
internationally gradable silk.
10. 11 different services of the Department are
included under “Sakala

years number of subcidy during the

sericulturest year (in dfls)
2019-2020 480 303620
2020-2021 414 246025
2021-2022 421 207142
2022-2023 482 235642
2023-2024 501 267052
Geographical distribution of sericulture