HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 18: An inaugural session for a workshop on ‘Oak Tasar Silk Production’ was successfully held on Wednesday at the District Library Auditorium in Haflong, Dima Hasao. The event was a collaborative effort organised by the Central Muga, Eri Research & Training Institute, Central Silk Board Jorhat, Assam, and the additional director, Department of Sericulture, government of Assam, Dima Hasao.
The workshop brought together experts, researchers, practitioners, and beneficiaries in the field of sericulture to discuss innovative strategies and share insights on enhancing oak tasar silk production. The primary objective was to explore commercial practices and improve techniques to boost the silk industry in the district. The program was held in two sessions—inaugural and technical.
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Addressing the crowd, NCHAC CEM Debolal Gorlosa stated that silk production has existed since time immemorial. He noted that not all areas in the district are conducive for silk rearing, except for regions like Hangrum, Barail, and Jinam. Despite the extreme temperatures in Assam and elsewhere, Dima Hasao still has areas with favourable temperatures and extensive land suitable for silk production. He emphasised the importance of proper land demarcation to prevent encroachment and expressed the District Council’s willingness to provide support.
Nandita Gorlosa, minister for Power, Mines, Minerals, etc., called for the institutionalisation of the Tasar variety and directed the Department of Sericulture to sensitise the masses on tasar silk production. She believes that this variety of silk has the potential to be included in the government of India’s ‘One District One Product’ program. Additionally, she requested the introduction of silk education to the younger generation and called for their active participation.
Mohet Hojai, chairman of NCHAC, stated that traditional knowledge of silk rearing exists in the district. Currently, there are 35 sericulture farms in the district, with 6 dedicated to the Tasar variety. He highlighted that places like Laisong, Jinam, Jatinga, and Hangrum have a conducive environment for the advancement of Tasar silk rearing. Additionally, he noted that the district has sufficient manpower and technological expertise needed to improve silk production in Dima Hasao.
Probita Jahari, EM (in-charge) of Sericulture, stated that oak tasar silk production occurs exclusively in the two hill districts of Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong. She emphasised its potential economic significance for these districts and expressed her commitment to supporting efforts to enhance silk production in the region.
In his welcoming note, Dr Diganta Mech, director (in-charge) of the Central Muga Eri Research & Training Institute, Central Silk Board Jorhat, Assam, elaborated on the diversity of silk types, particularly muga, eri, mulberry, and tasar. He believes that the Labong area in the Dima Hasao district holds significant potential for oak tasar silk production, which can empower the local population by enhancing their livelihood.
The inaugural session of the workshop was attended by chief guest Debolal Gorlosa, CEM, NCHAC; special guest Nandita Gorlosa, minister of Assam, Power, etc.; special guest Mohet Hojai, chairman, NCHAC; and guest of honour Probita Jahari, EM, Sericulture. Dr Diganta Mech, director (i/c), Central Muga Eri Research & Training Institute, Central Silk Board Jorhat, Assam; Ataur Rahman, additional director, Department of Sericulture, government of Assam; Kandarpa Barman, additional director (i/c), Department of Sericulture, government of Assam, Haflong, and others also attended the session.
