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KOKRAJHAR: The Central Silk Board, Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organization and P3 Unit, Kowabil, Kokrajhar, organised a one-day Muga Field Day programme at Salakhati village in Kokrajhar with an objective to promote understanding and skill enhancement through hands-on training and exposure on muga silkworm rearing, host plant cultivation, and field maintenance among the farmers recently. The programme was attended by 67 muga rearers from in and around Salakhati village.
The programme started with lamp lighting, followed by the welcome speech delivered by Lila Kanto Lahon, senior technical assistant, Central Silk Board, Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organisation, who described the aim and objective of the programme.
During the field exposure, Dr. Suraksha Chanotra, the convener of the programme, amplified the speech on the scope and future prospects of muga rearing for farmers of BTC. She also demonstrated the tricks to identify the optimum quality of som and soalu leaves for brushing of muga silkworms. She explained the proper way of brushing, care during brushing, and transferring of the larvae, etc.
Later, Ranjit Gogoi, Superintendent of Sericulture, Gossaigaon, delivered an extensive lecture on the history and cultural significance of muga in Assamese culture and tradition. He also provided information on the growing demand for muga in and out of the country. He demonstrated to the farmers about farm maintenance and disinfection practices followed before and after silkworm rearing and care during moult, transferring of larvae, and collection of mature worms.
During a practical session of field exposure, Kholen Roy of Salakhati village shared his experience on muga rearing, having more than 20 years of expertise in sericulture, including both eri and muga silkworm rearing.
During interaction with the speakers, farmers showed keen interest by actively participating in the discussion. They asked various questions on pre-brushing care and the effect of low temperature on the larval growth.
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