AIZAWL—Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita spotlighted the untapped potential of cultivating Muga silk in Mizoram during a press conference at the Regency Hotel in Aizawl. The minister expressed confidence that the state could soon match Assam and Meghalaya in silk production.
Speaking to the media, Margherita shared that he discussed the prospects of cultivating Muga silk in Mizoram during a meeting with Chief Minister Lalduhoma on May 4. “Currently, Muga silk is only grown in Assam, but given Mizoram’s climate and fertile land, there is immense opportunity to expand Muga cultivation here,” he stated.
The Union Minister explained that stakeholders, including the Mizoram state government and the state BJP, have acknowledged the potential, signaling collective interest in scaling up silk production.
Margherita emphasized Mizoram’s rich textile heritage, highlighting that the Northeast houses over 225 sub-tribes, each with distinct patterns and designs. “The diversity and creativity in textile design across these communities hold tremendous value in both national and global markets,” he said.
He also outlined key initiatives by the Ministry of Textiles aimed at empowering handloom weavers, including the Samarth Scheme, which provides subsidized yarns, traditional looms, accessories, and skill development opportunities. “Handloom weavers from even the remotest regions are now connecting to global markets via online portals,” Margherita added.
Assuring continued support to Mizoram’s handloom and textile industries, the minister concluded, “The Ministry of Textiles remains committed to fostering the growth and development of artisans in Mizoram.”
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