India is all set to become a key player in silk production after China. India’s total production in the previous financial year stood at around 23,000 tonnes and is likely to cross 26,000 tonnes this year. China which produces 1.20 lakh tonnes of silk every year is experiencing a rapid production decline.
R B Tandav, Deputy Director, Central Silk Board said, ‘silk production of China is declining rapidly and we have opportunities to explore in the global market. Last year, the export of silk garments earned around Rs 2,500 crore in terms of revenue. We are on promoting silk industry as production of one kg of yarn generates employment for 10 people.’
The Board is also coming up with an innovative idea of products like silk denims. Silk will be used in making tough material for trousers resembling jeans. This move is expected to give a good boost to the silk industry.