SILKWAVE

Statistics of exports issued by the Central Silk Board (CSB) indicate a robust growth during the first half of the current fiscal. In dollar terms this worked out to $174.82 million against $150.11 million for the same period in FY ‘98-’99. Value added products like shirts and scarfs rose by a huge 213.2%. The rise in exports could be attributed to a good understanding of the international fashion market. However, the biggest worry continues to be the inadequate availability of quality raw silk. Current demand is placed around 21,000 tonnes, domestic production being placed at about 14,000 tonnes, leaving a deficit of 7,000 tonnes.

Under the operation silkwave production of bi-voltine silk is expected to touch 10,500 tonnes by ’07 with lead being taken in the three southern states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka, which accounts for over 60% of the silk production in the country, plans to raise the production of biovoltine silk from the existing 212 tonnes to over 7,000 tonnes over an 8-10 year timeframe. The Karnataka government has also indicate that the existing state Silkwormseed, cocoon and silk yarn (regulation of production, supply, distribution and sale) Act of 1959, is expected to bring more investments into the silk industry.

As a matter of recognition of India’s growing stature in international market, the country has been chosen to host the 23^rd Congress of the International Silk Association.

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