Silk Weaves a Story of Self-Reliance in Narayanpur

Sericulture Transforms the Lives of Tribal Communities in Chhattisgarh’s Forest Region

Raipur, July 2026 : Sericulture development and expansion initiatives in Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh are scripting a remarkable story of economic empowerment and rural transformation. Under the guidance of the district administration and the Collector, mulberry and tasar silk development programmes are creating sustainable livelihood opportunities while enabling women and youth to secure dignified employment within their own villages.

Today, silk production in Narayanpur has evolved beyond an agricultural support activity to become a strong pillar of women’s empowerment, rural development, and self-reliance.

Mulberry Sericulture Provides Sustainable Income

Two mulberry sericulture centres located in Narayanpur and Kusartarai have developed plantations across 22.5 acres, where members of women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are engaged in scientific silkworm rearing using modern techniques.

Against the production target of 4,400 kilograms of cocoons for 2025–26, the district successfully produced 4,180 kilograms, reflecting strong performance. A total of 47 beneficiaries associated with the programme received more than ₹7.72 lakh, directly transferred to their bank accounts.

Besides silkworm rearing, activities such as plantation maintenance, weeding, and field management have provided year-round employment opportunities to local villagers.

Tasar Silk Production Surpasses Targets

Tasar sericulture has also achieved exceptional success in the district. Conducted across 62 hectares in four major centres—Narayanpur, Kusartarai, Gotajunhari, and Edka—the programme exceeded its annual production target by a significant margin.

Against a target of 8.52 lakh tasar cocoons for 2025–26, the district recorded a bumper production of over 9.73 lakh cocoons. This outstanding achievement generated a direct income of nearly ₹36.97 lakh for 64 beneficiaries, substantially improving the economic condition of participating families.

Training, Transparency and Trust Drive Success

Officials from the Sericulture Department are not only providing resources but also offering continuous technical guidance to farmers and beneficiaries. Regular training programmes help protect silkworms from diseases and improve the quality of cocoon production through scientific practices.

The department has also ensured complete transparency by transferring payments directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts, strengthening trust in the programme. Women belonging to Self-Help Groups have played a leading role in implementing these initiatives, significantly contributing to their families’ financial stability and overall rural development.

A Model for Inclusive Rural Development

The Narayanpur sericulture model demonstrates how effective utilisation of local resources, strong administrative support, and the dedication of rural communities can transform even remote forest regions into centres of sustainable economic growth.

The Chhattisgarh government believes that expanding these sericulture initiatives will not only help lift more rural families out of poverty but also establish Narayanpur as a prominent hub on the state’s silk production map, creating a unique identity for the district while promoting inclusive and self-reliant development.