U.S. Special Representative for Global Intergovernmental Affairs Reta Jo Lewis on Wednesday visited Sualkuchi, the largest silk village of the country, about 35 km from here, to experience firsthand the rich weaving tradition of Assam.
Ms. Lewis went round the village to see weavers producing eye-catching designs and motifs using mulberry and Assam's unique Muga silk. She interacted with them to learn about their skill and experience.
At the Design Development Centre of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Kolkata, located in the village, Ms. Lewis appreciated the colourful patterns local weavers designed using modern tools and techniques, after training by NIFT experts.
Sualkuchi, called the Manchester of the East, is the hub of Assam's sericulture activities. The Economic Survey of Assam 2010-11 showed that out of the 28 lakh looms in the country, the State has about 13 lakh. About 2.80 lakh looms are being ultilised for commercial weaving in the State. About 5.70 lakh looms run semi-commercially and are earning a subsidiary income, while the rest are meeting domestic requirement.
