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Kargil, Dec 9, 2025:
The Central Sericultural Research & Training Institute (CSR&TI), Central Silk Board (CSB), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Pampore, in collaboration with the School of Agriculture Science and Technology, University of Ladakh, organized a Consultative Workshop on “Sericulture Development in Ladakh” at the Baroo Conference Hall, Kargil.
The event witnessed the active participation of nearly 100 stakeholders, including heads and representatives of major line departments of the district.
Leaders Emphasize Sericulture as a Future Livelihood Sector
The workshop was chaired by Shri Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon, Hon’ble Chairman/Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC Kargil.
He appreciated the Central Silk Board’s growing efforts in promoting sericulture across Kargil and expressed confidence that the sector would soon emerge as a sustainable livelihood opportunity for local farmers.
While distributing certificates to trainees of the 45-day Intensive Bivoltine Training-cum-Demonstration Programme, Shri Akhoon extended gratitude to:
Shri P. Sivakumar, IFS, Member Secretary, CSB Smt. Padmini Singla, IAS, Joint Secretary (Fibre), Ministry of Textiles
He also assured that steps are being taken to establish a dedicated sericulture wing under an appropriate department until a full-fledged sericulture department is created under LAHDC.
Officials Highlight Region’s Potential for Silk Production
Executive Councilor Shri Aga Syeed Mujtaba Mussavi reiterated LAHDC’s commitment to supporting and expanding sericulture activities in Kargil. He assured institutional backing for training, technical assistance, and farmer engagement.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sardar Singh, Director, CSB-CSR&TI, highlighted CSB’s continued engagement in Kargil since 2016, emphasizing the region’s favourable agro-climatic conditions for silkworm rearing.
Discussions at the workshop centered on:
Agro-based sericulture models Seri-tourism potential in Ladakh Integrated farming systems Strengthening farmer training and commercial adoption
Farmers Showcase Cocoons as Sericulture Gains Momentum
One of the major highlights was the display of cocoons produced by trained farmers, showcasing their readiness to begin commercial sericulture operations.
Shri Gulzar Ahmad Khan, Scientist-D, informed participants that over 6000 wild mulberry plants naturally grow around Kargil. He also announced plans to plant an additional 5000 saplings in farmers’ fields to further strengthen the local sericulture ecosystem.
Conclusion
The consultative workshop marks a significant step toward building a self-sustaining sericulture industry in Ladakh, promising new income opportunities for farmers and contributing to agricultural diversification in the region.
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