Innovative Developments in Silk Value Chain Highlighted at Bharat Tex 2025
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Synopsis
The International Conference on 'Emerging Technologies in Silk Sector – SILKTECH 2025' was inaugurated by Union Minister Pabitra Margherita at Bharat Tex 2025. The event emphasized zero waste technologies and the expansion of silk applications beyond textiles.
Key Takeaways
- Launch of SILKTECH 2025 conference.
- Focus on zero waste technologies in the silk sector.
- Emphasis on Muga and Eri silk from Northeast India.
- MoUs signed for collaborative silk research.
- Exploration of silk applications in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) The Union Minister of State for Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, officially opened the International Conference titled "Emerging Technologies in Silk Sector – SILKTECH 2025" at Bharat Mandapam on Monday, forming part of the grand textile exposition - Bharat Tex 2025.
The minister underscored the significance of zero waste technologies within the silk value chain and called upon all stakeholders to collaborate in achieving the Prime Minister's ambitious goal of tripling textile production and exports by 2030 through quality research.
Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, discussed the significant transformation in sericulture post Silk Samagra and stressed that the by-products of silk should enter the mainstream with the adoption of next-generation technologies.
The conference also engaged in discussions about novel silk applications beyond textiles, particularly in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, while promoting the development of suitable technologies aimed at enhancing silk quality. This aligns with global market trends and sustainable innovations across the silk production chain, contributing to an Atmanirbhar India.
During the event, two souvenir-cum-books were launched: one on emerging technologies in the silk sector - SILKTECH 2025 and another titled Pradhyogiki Vivranak, serving as a technology descriptor.
Additionally, various publications from the Central Silk Board were unveiled.
Six MoUs were signed during the conference between the R&D Institute of the Central Silk Board and other R&D organizations and NGOs.
In his speech, the minister also emphasized the unique Muga and Eri silks from the North Eastern region of the country. Muga silk, known for its durability and golden hue, is predominantly produced in Assam, which is the world's largest producer.
This silk variety is utilized to create saris, mekhalas, and chadors.
Eri silk is cultivated in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh. Both Muga and Eri silk production hold significant cultural and economic importance for the North Eastern region, providing substantial employment opportunities.
