A CORRESPONDENT
DHUPDHARA: A five day capacity building and training programme for registered seed producers at the Muga Silkworm Seed Production Centre (SSPC), Kaliabari, Boko, in Kamrup district successfully concluded on Friday.
Sources from the Central Silk Board, MESSO, SSPC (M), Kaliabari, Boko, said that the programme, organized by the Central Silk Board, MESSO, SSPC (M), Kaliabari, under the Ministry of Textiles, aimed to equip seed producers with advanced skills to improve the productivity and quality of Muga silkworm seeds, contributing to the sustainable growth of this unique sericulture practice. As many as 20 registered muga seed producers from different nearby villages attended the program.
Dharavath Saicharan, Scientist-B and in-charge of SSPC, Kaliabari, played a pivotal role in coordinating the program and welcoming participants. The training program, which was started on Monday, featured a series of focused sessions designed to enhance technical knowledge in Muga seed production.
Addressing the participants, Dr Karshanal, Scientist-B, P3 Unit, Adokgiri (Meghalaya), delivered a talk on the history and significance of Muga culture and the crucial role of registered seed producers in sustaining the sector. Dr Manbendra Deka, Scientist-D, P3 Unit, Hahim, delivered topics like the Seed Act, transportation of seed cocoons, and key techniques including coupling, decoupling, and Oviposition.
Senior Technical Assistants Malek Ali and Dipen Kumar Borah, engaged participants in practical sessions, including detailed demonstrations of mother moth examination and other crucial techniques integral to Muga silkworm seed production. The program also included detailed sessions led by Dharavath Saicharan on systematic plantation management, pest and disease control, and effective management practices for host plants of Muga silkworms.
On the fourth day, Dr NK Bhatia, Director, Muga Eri Silkworm Seed Organization (MESSO), Guwahati, addressed the farmers, highlighting the significant role of Muga sericulture in rural development. He also expressed his delight at the active participation of women farmers. He further emphasized the importance of empowering women in sericulture, which aligns with the Central Silk Board’s objectives and national policies for women’s empowerment.
On the final day today, Dr Rahman, Scientist-D, RSRS, Boko, provided insights into designing ideal rearing houses, care during spinning, and post-training assessments. Adding to the resource base for participants, a bulletin titled “Disinfestation in Muga Grainage” was released during the program. Farmers were also provided with comprehensive training kits, which included a bag, brochure, bulletin, pen, and folder, to support their learning experience.
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