Training Program Enhances Pest Management for Eri and Muga Farmers in Kokrajhar

Dispur, India Aug 22, 2026 ALN: A farmer-centric training programme on integrated pest and disease management in Eri and Muga Sericulture was organised on Friday at South Moarigaon in Kokrajhar under the Mera Resham Mera Abhimaan (MRMA) 2.0 campaign. The programme aimed to strengthen the technical capacity of Eri and Muga farmers in adopting scientific, preventive, and integrated approaches to pest and disease management, thereby reducing crop losses and improving silkworm rearing efficiency and productivity.

The initiative was spearheaded by Dr. Suraksha Chanotra, Scientist-B at the Central Silk Board (CSB), along with the Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organisation (MESSO), P-3 unit, Kowabil. The event was conducted in collaboration with Kalpojita Basumatary, Extension Officer from the Department of Sericulture, Kokrajhar, and other officials from the State Sericulture Department.

This training is part of a broader effort to enhance the livelihoods of local farmers by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage pests and diseases effectively. By focusing on integrated pest management strategies, the programme aims to promote sustainable practices that can lead to higher yields and better quality silk production.

Farmers attending the training expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the techniques being introduced. They highlighted the importance of such initiatives in helping them navigate the challenges posed by pests and diseases that threaten their crops.

As the silk industry plays a vital role in the economy of Assam, such training programmes are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and profitability of Eri and Muga sericulture in the region.

Sericulture, the production of silk from silkworms, is a significant agricultural activity in Assam, particularly for the indigenous communities. Eri and Muga silks are unique to the region, with Muga silk being known for its golden hue and durability, while Eri silk is valued for its softness and warmth. The cultivation of these silks not only provides income to farmers but also plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of Assam.

However, the sector faces several challenges, including pest infestations and diseases that can devastate silkworm populations and reduce silk production. Common pests include the Eri silkworm borer and various species of mites, which can severely impact the health of the silkworms if not managed properly. Diseases such as flacherie and grasserie also pose significant threats, leading to increased mortality rates among the silkworms, thus affecting the overall yield.

The MRMA 2.0 campaign, which translates to "My Silk, My Pride," is a government initiative aimed at revitalising the sericulture sector in Assam. By promoting awareness and training on best practices, the campaign seeks to empower farmers to take charge of their production processes. The training programme is thus a vital component of this initiative, focusing on integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that combine biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimises economic, health, and environmental risks.

Integrated pest management strategies include monitoring pest populations, using resistant varieties, and applying biological control methods, such as introducing natural predators of pests. This holistic approach not only helps in managing current pest populations but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem. Farmers are encouraged to adopt these practices, which can lead to a more resilient farming system capable of withstanding various challenges.

The training sessions also cover the importance of understanding the life cycles of pests and diseases, enabling farmers to time their interventions more effectively. By educating farmers on the signs of pest infestations and disease symptoms, the programme aims to empower them to act promptly before significant damage occurs. This proactive approach is crucial in a sector where timing can significantly influence outcomes.

Moreover, the training is expected to foster a sense of community among farmers. By coming together to learn and share experiences, participants can build networks that facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources. This communal approach can lead to collective problem-solving and innovation, further enhancing the resilience of the sericulture sector.

As the silk industry plays a vital role in the economy of Assam, such training programmes are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and profitability of Eri and Muga sericulture in the region. The success of these initiatives is expected to have a ripple effect, boosting local economies and promoting rural development. By investing in the skills and knowledge of farmers, the government and relevant stakeholders are not only working towards improving silk production but also supporting broader economic goals, including poverty alleviation and employment generation.

The implications of such training extend beyond immediate agricultural benefits. By enhancing the productivity and sustainability of Eri and Muga sericulture, the programme contributes to the preservation of traditional practices and livelihoods that are integral to the cultural identity of Assam. As farmers become more adept at managing their crops, the region's unique silk heritage is likely to flourish, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from this age-old craft.

In conclusion, the training programme on integrated pest and disease management for Eri and Muga farmers in Kokrajhar represents a significant step towards empowering local communities and securing the future of the silk industry in Assam. Through education and support, farmers are better equipped to face the challenges of modern agriculture, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future in sericulture.