India’s Silk Industry Revitalization: From Scientist to Silk Farmer
India’s silk industry revitalization is marked by a blend of traditional practices and modern technology, as exemplified by the journey of Dr. Jolapuram Umamaheswari. Six years ago, she left her scientific career in Singapore to start silk farming, or sericulture, in Andhra Pradesh. This transition highlights how silk production in India is evolving into a high-tech business while still relying on biological and agricultural knowledge.
Challenges and Progress in Silk Farming
Sericulture involves feeding mulberry leaves to silkworms, harvesting their cocoons, and extracting silk fibers. Dr. Umamaheswari describes silk farming as an intersection of biology, precision, and business, allowing her to apply her scientific background in a new way. However, the early stages of her farming were difficult due to disease outbreaks, inconsistent yields, and the complexities of managing living organisms.
Her scientific expertise helped her implement improvements in hygiene, feeding practices, and environmental control. These small changes gradually increased silkworm survival rates and improved cocoon quality. Today, she produces about 10 crops of raw silk annually, with each silkworm growth cycle lasting 25 to 30 days. Her monthly income from sericulture is approximately $1,000, providing a steady and reliable source of revenue rather than just seasonal earnings.
Technological Advances in the Silk Industry Revitalization
The silk industry in India is undergoing significant technological transformation. Krishna Tomala, founder of Asho Farms, explains how digital and biotechnological innovations are integrated into various stages of sericulture, from producing silkworm eggs to rearing cocoons. Silkworms are highly sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and leaf quality, which are now monitored and controlled using sensors and automated systems.
Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a key role in disease detection. Computer vision and machine learning technologies can identify early signs of disease in silkworm larvae with over 99% accuracy. This allows farmers to remove infected worms promptly, preventing the spread of disease and protecting the entire crop.
India’s Unique Position in Global Silk Production
India is the world’s second-largest silk producer after China but stands out for its diverse range of silk varieties. The country is unique in producing all four commercial types of silk: Mulberry, Tasar, Eri, and Muga. Muga silk, found mainly in Assam and Meghalaya, is exclusive to India.
Research efforts are focused on genome editing to develop more robust and disease-resistant silkworm varieties. The Central Silk Board collaborates internationally, including with Japan, to advance these innovations. Additionally, the industry is exploring the use of by-products such as dried silkworm pupae, which are rich in protein and used as poultry and fish feed.
Modernizing Silk Reeling and Industry Challenges
Satheesh Kannur, who operates a company specializing in silk reeling—the process of turning cocoons into raw silk yarn—notes that technology has transformed this stage from a slow, manual craft into a fast, precision-driven industry. Machines can produce 50 to 60 kilograms of raw silk daily, and solar power is increasingly used to make the process more sustainable.
Despite technological progress, there are concerns about the future supply of silk cocoons. Many second-generation farmers are reluctant to continue silk farming, and landholdings are fragmented. Kannur emphasizes that the entire industry depends on farmers producing sufficient cocoons to meet demand.
However, the Central Silk Board reports that although the number of farmers is decreasing, cocoon production is rising due to improved rearing techniques, disease control, and scientific support. Yield per acre has increased significantly, supporting the industry’s growth.
Integrating Traditional and Sustainable Practices
Back on her farm in Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Umamaheswari plans to add a cow shed to diversify income and enhance sustainability. The cows will provide milk and manure, which will be used as fertilizer for mulberry plants. She believes that even small improvements in farming techniques can significantly boost yield and quality, making sericulture a rewarding field for those who enjoy applying practical knowledge.