HT Bureau
DIPHU, June 16: Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Kache Rongpipi, ceremonially launched the Silk Samagra-2 project at the Collective Mulberry Garden (CMG), Bithiphang on Monday. Aimed at promoting the eri silk industry in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong, the project covers the fiscal year 2024–2025 and has a total outlay of Rs 4.24 crore, with 90% funding from the Central Government and 10% contribution from beneficiaries.
Sponsored by the Central Silk Board, Bengaluru, and implemented by the Sericulture Department, KAAC, the project will benefit 340 beneficiaries across development blocks including Lumbajong, Bokajan, Nilip, Langsomepi, Howraghat, Rongkhang, Chinthong, Rongmongve, and Samelangso.
As part of the launch, cheques of Rs 9,382 (first installment) and nursery seedlings of Kesseru plants—the primary food plant for eri silkworms—were distributed to each beneficiary.
Addressing the gathering, EM Rongpipi highlighted the cultural importance of eri silk among Karbi and other tribal communities. “Silk Samagra-2 is a valuable opportunity to revive and promote the traditional practice of silkworm rearing among our people. The finest quality eri silk from Karbi Anglong is already being exported to international markets,” she said.
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Rongpipi also acknowledged the delay in availing the scheme, stating, “We missed out on Silk Samagra-1. Silk Samagra-2 is already nearing its end, but thanks to our efforts and coordination with Sericulture officials and the Central Silk Board, we secured a portion of the project funds for Karbi Anglong.”
She encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the funds effectively to plant food crops, purchase spinning machines, and construct rearing houses. To mark the occasion, the EM and department officials planted Kesseru saplings on the premises.
Earlier, Deputy Secretary of KAAC, Deuri Ronghang, delivered the introductory address, followed by Extension Officer Longki Timung, who explained the benefits and goals of the project.
The event was attended by MAC Kadom Terangpi, Chairperson of the Sericulture Development Board Roshmi Teronpi, OSD Mohon Barman, Superintendent Jaghat Rabha, and other officials.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Additional Director Rongbong Rongphar.
