Sericulture in Kerala


Sericulture is a non traditional activity in Kerala promoted by the State government.  Sericulture scheme is implemented by Rural Development Department.  The productive acreage was 555 acres up to 2001-2002 and during the X plan period it increased to 3351 acres. Cocoon production increased from 31 MT during 1995-96 to 101 MT in 2006-2007, the highest in the sericulture history of the state.  However, it is doubtful whether the State received due recognition for this accomplishment, being a 100% BV state, in the National perspective.  The growth in cocoon production was significant particularly in X Plan period.  The current cocoon production in the State (2013-14) was 40 tons.  Rural Development Department is taking various measures to implement the Sericulture activities in the State.

The major components of Sericulture schemes are

  • Support for Mulberry plantation and silk worm rearing.
  • Support for extension and publicity.
  • Beneficiary empowerment programme.
  • Incentive  for Bivoltine silk yarn production.
  • Production Incentive for quality linked cocoon procurement system.
  • Support for mechanisation of existing Mulberry garden.
  • Support for maintenance of existing mulberry garden.
  • Support for post cocoon sector (Reeling, twisting, weaving, printing, handicraft etc.)


Subsidy

  • Plantation subsidy – Rs. 6750/ Acre
  • Equipment subsidy – Rs. 37500/Acre
  • Rearing shed subsidy – Rs. 1,00,000/Acre
  • Irrigation subsidy – Rs. 30,000/Acre
  • Production incentive – Rs. 30-50/1 Kg cocoon
  • (GC+% 80 to 90 and above)
  • Mechanisation of Mulberry garden – Rs. 30,000/Acre
  • Maintenance of existing Mulberry garden – Rs. 4150/Acre

 

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