Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has called for a major push to strengthen the state’s sericulture sector and expand its potential as a significant silk-producing region. Chairing a review meeting of the Sericulture Department at the CM Conference Hall on Monday, Lalduhoma reviewed ongoing programmes, challenges and initiatives with Sericulture Minister Lalthansanga and senior officials. The Chief Minister said various measures were being undertaken under the vision of Viksit Mizoram 2047 and directed the department to prepare a substantial project aimed at unlocking Mizoram’s potential in silk production. He also asked district-level officers to openly report field-level challenges and requirements so that solutions could be addressed collectively. Mizoram currently has 7,040 sericulture farmers and has produced 53.826 metric tonnes of cocoons up to September this year. The government has also raised the cocoon procurement price from Rs 300 to Rs 350 per kg. The review meeting discussed measures to address manpower shortages, including amendments to recruitment rules to facilitate early appointment of required personnel, particularly rearers. Lalduhoma also directed officials to submit a proposal for assistance to purchase refrigerators for cocoon storage. Several Central Sector programmes are being implemented in Aizawl, Lunglei and Saitual districts, covering households and farmers involved in Eri, Muga and Mulberry sericulture. Under the Handholding initiative, beneficiaries have received CM Special Packages and loans, with around 70 per cent already reaching the cocoon production stage. Hrangngaihkimi of Tawipui North-II received the CM Award 2026 for her performance in the sector. Meanwhile, Lalchhandami of Tuipui D in Hnahthial district received the Best Achiever Award – Eri Adopted Seed Rearer from the Central Silk Board during its 77th Foundation Day celebration on September 20. The recognition highlights the contribution of local rearers to the state’s growing sericulture activities. Sericulture Minister Lalthansanga said Mizoram has considerable potential in the sector and that the department, officials and farmers are making renewed efforts to expand activities across the state. The government’s focus on infrastructure, manpower, financial assistance, cocoon procurement and technical support is intended to strengthen production and improve opportunities for farmers. With thousands of farmers already engaged in sericulture and production continuing to expand, the review has placed greater emphasis on coordinated planning and practical support to build a stronger silk ecosystem in Mizoram. Officials were also encouraged to improve implementation at the district level, strengthen farmer support systems and identify additional opportunities for expanding production, processing and market access statewide.
