Raipur (thestates.news) | Sericulture development and expansion initiatives in Chhattisgarh’s forested district of Narayanpur are scripting a remarkable story of economic transformation and self-reliance. Under the effective guidance of the district administration, the Mulberry and Tasar sericulture programmes have not only created new livelihood opportunities at the local level but have also empowered women and youth with dignified employment within their own villages, enabling them to achieve greater financial independence.
Today, silk production in Narayanpur has evolved beyond a supplementary agricultural activity to emerge as a strong pillar of women empowerment, rural development and self-reliance.
Mulberry Sericulture Becomes a Sustainable Source of Livelihood for Self Help Groups
Two Mulberry centres at Narayanpur and Kusartarai have developed plantations across nearly 22.5 acres, where members of women Self Help Groups are practising scientific silkworm rearing using improved techniques. Against the production target of 4,400 kilograms of cocoons for 2025-26, the centres successfully achieved an output of 4,180 kilograms. A total of 47 beneficiaries associated with the programme received direct payments exceeding Rs 7.72 lakh in their bank accounts. Alongside silkworm rearing, activities such as plantation maintenance, weeding and soil management have ensured year-round employment opportunities for rural households.
