Muga Field Day Organised to Empower Muga Farmers in Assam

Narayanpur: In a dedicated effort to bolster the traditional Muga sericulture industry of Assam, the Central Silk Board’s P3 Unit in Narayanpur successfully conducted a Muga Field Day at Khulaguri Cluster Muga Garden (CMG), drawing participation from local farmers, scientists, and sericulture experts. The event aimed at empowering Muga farmers through hands-on training and technical knowledge-sharing. Live demonstrations were held on key aspects of host plant management, including pruning techniques and sustainable cultivation practices crucial for enhancing the health of Som and Soalu plants—the primary host plants of the Muga silkworm. Technical sessions were conducted by experienced scientists and staff from the CSB-P3 Unit, Narayanpur, and the Regional Extension Centre (REC), Lakhimpur. These sessions focused on improving farmers’ skills, reducing input costs, and boosting productivity—vital steps in strengthening the Muga silk value chain. The programme was graced by Rakesh S, Assistant General Manager, FCI & Sericulture Demonstrator from the Department of Sericulture, Assam. Addressing the gathering, he provided policy-level insights and highlighted the government's continued efforts to promote sustainable sericulture practices in Assam. Dr. Anil Kumar S T, Scientist-B and Unit In-Charge, CSB-P3 Narayanpur, emphasized the importance of properly raising and maintaining Som and Soalu seedlings. He explained how host plant quality directly influences cocoon yield and silk quality, which in turn affects the income of farmers. Pulak Rabha, Scientist-B from REC Lakhimpur, delivered a detailed presentation on pest and disease management in Muga silkworm cultivation. He urged farmers to adopt timely interventions and scientific practices to mitigate crop losses. The programme concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where farmers shared their experiences and sought expert advice on field challenges. The interaction fostered a strong sense of collaboration and reaffirmed the commitment of all stakeholders to preserve and promote Assam’s rich heritage of Muga silk production. The Field Day served as an important platform to promote eco-friendly, sustainable, and profitable sericulture practices, contributing to the socio-economic upliftment of rural communities involved in Muga farming.