: The Department of Rural Development has identified Idukki as a prime area for sericulture to meet the increase in the demand for natural silks. Palakkad and Wayanad are the other two districts in which farmers in cluster units engage in sericulture.
The climate of the district was found most suitable for mulberry cultivation and breeding silkworms. Devilulam and Elamdesham blocks had been identified for cluster farm units, District Assistant Sericulture Officer Jomon Joseph told The Hindu on Wednesday. Kerala contributes only a meagre portion in terms of the total sericulture production, he said, adding that the farmers forming cluster units could make it more attractive as it involves timely transportation of cocoon to the market and the breeding of the silk worms. The main market for silkworms is Coimbatore, which is near to Marayur and Kanthallur.
China and India are the major producers of silks contributing nearly 60 per cent of the total annual production. While the Centre and State governments have announced various incentives for sericulture sector; Mr Joseph said that farmers will receive subsidy for setting up the farm units and breeding centre. About 95 per cent of the total silk industry is based on natural silks and there is a steady increase in its demand internationally, he said.
The average price of a kilogram of cocoon is Rs 400 and in a one acre plot, farmers can harvest up to 600 kg of cocoon annually. However, developing cluster units are advisable as it makes easy for the breeding of silkworms and the marketing of harvested cocoon, he said.
