Jharkhand’s prized Tassar silk holds significant potential in both domestic and international markets, with the Central Silk Board and Khadi Board actively supporting its promotion, as stated by Governor CP Radhakrishnan.
In an exclusive interview with the news agency PTI on Monday, the governor emphasized the need to boost the rural economy of the tribal-dominated state by providing impetus to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Governor Radhakrishnan shared that he engaged with a team from the Central Silk Board, urging them to manufacture Tassar silk carpets and promote them extensively in both domestic and international markets.
Jharkhand, being the largest producer of Tassar silk in India, contributes around 65 per cent to the total domestic production. The state’s Tassar silk sarees, marketed under Jharcraft, have already gained recognition in global markets.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a crucial role in promoting Tassar silk globally, according to the governor. During Modi’s three-day visit to the US in June, he presented a hand-woven textured Tassar silk cloth from Jharkhand to US First Lady Jill Biden.
Talks are underway with the Khadi Board for the promotion of Tassar carpets, and Governor Radhakrishnan expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his support, acknowledging that Tassar carpets have the potential to generate significant revenues for Jharkhand.
Acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on the agriculture sector for employment, the governor emphasized the need to promote MSMEs, drawing inspiration from developed states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
He suggested seeking assistance from the Chamber of Commerce in this endeavor.
Additionally, Radhakrishnan expressed optimism about the positive impact of promoting self-help groups on the rural economy, citing examples of self-dependent and confident rural women he encountered during his state tours.
