Kishanganj is primarily an agricultural belt and majority of the population earn its livelihood by cultivating rice, wheat, maize, pulses and jute, etc. Along with traditional crops, the land of Kishanganj is also suitable for production of tea that makes it the alone district in Bihar to produce tea. However, very few know that Kishanganj is also leading in production of Mulberry silk. In fact, Kishanganj is no 1 producer of Mulberry Silk in Bihar.
DM Kishanganj showing packets of Mulberry Silk cocoons
Hardly few kilometres from the district headquarters the plants are grown at large level. DM Kishanganj Feraque Ahmad said that Kishanganj has got the distinction of producing high quality silk in Bihar. The concerned department is giving proper attention to cultivate mulberry trees on which the silk worms form the cocoon.
Quite interestingly a cocoon can produce 300 metres to 800 metres of silk thread. While a single yellow or light yellow cocoon can give 300 to 400 metres silk thread, a white coloured cocoon can alone give 700 to 800 metres of silk thread. India is the second biggest producer of silk in the world and also the world’s largest consumer.
Packets of Mulberry Silk Cocoons and Silk Thread
Human being has always been inquisitive for silk products and always loved this shimmering fibre of unparalleled grandeur. Fondly called the “Queen of Textiles” – Silk spells luxury, elegance, class and comfort. Like the natural sheen, inherent affinity for dyes and vibrant colours, high absorbance, light weight, resilience and excellent drape etc. have made silk, the irresistible and inevitable companion of the people residing across the world.
Silk Thread and a plant of Mulberry
Silk production is regarded as an important tool for economic development of a country as it is a labour intensive and high income generating industry that churns out value added products of economic importance. As the soil of Kishanganj is suitable for production of silk, so the state as well as centre should give proper attention to increase the yield. Most importantly Kishanganj is an economically deprived district the growth in silk production would generate more employment opportunities that would eventually add up to the economic development of India.
