Why in news?
The Central Silk Board (CSB), under India's Ministry of Textiles, recently received an approval limit increase to ₹1 crore from ₹50 lakh to speed up project implementations in the silk sector. This change, effective via an amendment to its 1955 rules, addresses rising costs for infrastructure and technology while decentralizing decisions. The move supports India's silk industry, which produced over 41,000 metric tonnes in FY25 and employs nearly 10 million people.
About Central Silk Board
The Central Silk Board (CSB) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, established in 1948 to oversee and promote the silk industry across the country. It plays a crucial role in research, development, policy-making, and implementation of schemes related to sericulture and silk production.
Key facts
- Established: 1948, by an Act of Parliament (Act No. LXI of 1948).
- Administrative Control: Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
- Headquarters: Bengaluru.
- Nature: Statutory and autonomous body.
- Current Member Secretary: Shri P. Sivakumar, IFS.
Mandates & Functions
- Research & Development: Scientific, technological, and economic research in the silk sector.
- Silkworm Seed Production: Establishing a national network for quality seed distribution.
- Policy Advisory: Advising the government on sericulture and silk industry matters.
- Standardization: Ensuring quality standards for silk production and trade.
- Schemes Implemented:
- Silk Samagra: Comprehensive scheme for sericulture development.
- SAMARTH: Skill development initiative for silk sector workers.
Impact & Reach
- Institutes & Units: 159 research institutes, farms, and labs across India.
- Livelihoods: Around 9.5 million people depend on sericulture for their income.
- Beneficiaries: Artisans, tribals, women, and marginalized communities.
- Global Vision: Aiming to make India a leader in silk production and innovation.
Emerging Focus Areas
- Farm to Fabric Technologies: Innovations in pre-cocoon and post-cocoon sectors.
- Silk By-products: Applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals.
- Medical & Biotech Uses: Silk in sutures, tissue engineering, and biomaterials.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices and circular economy in silk industry.
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