With an annual growth rate of 19 per cent, India is expected to be self-sufficient in silk production by 2020, Central Silk Board (CSB) chairman K M Hanumantharayappa has said.

“Our output is 28,000 MTs (metric tonne) to 30,000 MTs at present. Our production is growing year to year. We are aiming to stop imports from China and produce that much in three-four years,” Hanumantharayappa said.

China produces 80 per cent of global silk output, while India’s share is 13 per cent, he said.

However, there is a 19 per cent growth in production and the aim is to produce around 34,000 MTs to make the country self-sufficient.”We have come closer. If we can continue this momentum, we can do it in the next three-four years,” the chairman said.

While China produces only mulberry, India manufactures other varieties, including Tasar and Muga.

Silk board’s mandated activities include, research and development, maintenance of silkworm production seed production network, leadership role in commercial silkworm seed production and standardising quality parameters in various production.

The chairman said the Board is offering a number of services like technological support to farmersand free training to them and subsidies on machines.

The state governments can pitch in to increase silk production by supporting farmers through monetary benefits and through other means, he said, adding that the Board would also help the cause.

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