Union Minister of State for Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises and the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, inaugurated the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the National Silkworm Seed Organization (NSSO) under the Central Silk Board in Bengaluru today. She also released a special postal stamp commemorating the NSSO.

Speaking at the inaugural session, the Minister said that only those with vision can establish institutions. She recalled that after assuming office as Minister of Industries, post-independence, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee established several industries and institutions in the country. As a result, the Central Silk Board has been able to grow into a massive organization today, she said.

The Minister highlighted that India ranks second in the global silk production. This is a large industry that has provided employment opportunities to many people. She also said that after independence, India was not self-reliant in many sectors, but today we have self-reliance (Atmanirbharat) in various sectors including food production, dairy and vegetables. She stressed that the contribution of the farmers in this achievement is immense.

"We are currently importing edible oil worth ₹2.5 lakh crore every year. Similarly, we are importing about 10% of pulses and silk. The government led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has implemented several special schemes to reduce this dependence," she said. She emphasized that in order to double the farmers' income, quality seeds, technology, and price are essential. For entrepreneurs' income to double, the products they manufacture must be of excellent quality. She further emphasized “only when we all work together in this direction can we increase the income of both farmers and entrepreneurs.”

"There is high demand for Indian silk not just domestically but abroad as well. We must leverage the vast opportunities available to manufacture and export the best silk products. Any product manufactured must meet export quality standards; only then can it fetch a good price," she advised.

Karnataka produces 40% of the country's silk. This proportion must increase in the coming days. There is good demand for Mysuru Silk Sarees, and we need to acquire the capacity to produce more. She stated that Karnataka's silk is the pride of the state, and this credit must go to all the farmers who strive to produce the best silk.

Dr. C.N. Manjunath, Member of Parliament, highlighted the significant role of farmers and scientists in nation-building. He expressed hope that in line with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, farmers, scientists, technologists, and transparent administration will play a crucial role in the creation of Viksit Bharat 2047.

"Silk is also a form of gold for the country. It is a crop that provides farmers with a monthly income, similar to a salary, without incurring losses. Karnataka ranks first in the country in silk production and there is a need to double the production in the coming days," he said. He also added that NSSO is providing quality silkworm seeds and the comprehensive utilization of the cocoon products can be achieved by increasing the number of spun mills. He also praised the Central Silk Board as an institution that reflects the pride of India.

During the event, progressive farmers who are growing excellent silk, new entrepreneurs, and officials who have previously served the Silk Board were felicitated. The event was attended by Shri P. Shivakumar, Member Secretary and CEO of the Central Silk Board, Dr. S. Manthira Moorthy, Director, National Silkworm Seed Organization, and many others.

 

*****

(Release ID: 2182161) Visitor Counter : 36