A four-week intensive training program on sericulture and the silk industry has launched at CSRTI, Mysuru, involving participants from 10 different countries under the ITEC initiative.

  • Four-week international sericulture training begins at CSRTI, Mysuru.
  • 21 participants from 10 countries are attending the program.
  • Cambodia, Maldives, Mauritius, and Zambia are participating for the first time.
  • Focus includes silk production, mulberry varieties, and value addition.

MYSURU: A prestigious four-week-long training program focusing on sericulture and the silk industry officially commenced on Friday at the Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI) in Mysuru. Organized under the Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) initiative, the program hosts 21 participants representing 10 different nations.

The program was inaugurated by P. Sivakumar, Member Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Silk Board (CSB). The diverse cohort includes delegates from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Cuba, Ghana, Maldives, Mauritius, Nigeria, Philippines, Thailand, and Zambia. Notably, representatives from Cambodia, Maldives, Mauritius, and Zambia are participating in this international forum for the very first time.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that India is strategically positioning itself as a global knowledge hub for high-value agricultural technologies. By exporting expertise in sericulture, India not only strengthens its diplomatic ties through ITEC but also sets the standard for silk production quality worldwide.

India is increasingly shifting focus from traditional silk production toward high-value applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

During his keynote address, Mr. Sivakumar encouraged the trainees to leverage the advanced facilities at CSB institutes. He highlighted India's pioneering research in developing superior mulberry varieties and improved silkworm breeds, which are essential for meeting the rising global demand for high-quality silk products.

Furthermore, the CEO emphasized the importance of value addition. He noted that the future of the industry lies in creating silk-based by-products that can be utilized in emerging sectors such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, thereby diversifying the economic benefits for farmers and industries alike.

To ensure a holistic learning experience, P. Deepa, Director of CSB-CSRTI, stated that the curriculum combines classroom theory with intensive practical modules. Participants will undertake field visits to farmer plots, cocoon markets, and specialized rearing centers to witness the entire value chain in action.

Historical Background

The Central Silk Board (CSB) has been a cornerstone of India's silk industry for decades. This current session marks the eighth international training program organized by CSB-CSRTI, which has successfully trained 188 professionals from 27 countries to date.

Did You Know?: Silk is often referred to as the 'Queen of Textiles' due to its unique luster and strength, which are derived from the protein structure of the silkworm's cocoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which organization is coordinating this training?
The program is jointly coordinated by the Central Silk Board (CSB), the International Sericulture Commission (ISC), and CSRTI, Mysuru.

2. What is the duration of this training program?
The intensive training program is scheduled to run for four weeks, concluding on September 30.