Northeast's Largest Eri Silk Spinning Mill Inaugurated in Assam to Boost Local Economy

The largest Eri silk spinning plant in the Northeast was inaugurated by Bodoland Territorial Council Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro. Located in Assam's Baksa district, the facility was established by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation. It spans 12,916 square feet at the Integrated Textile Park in Kharuajan, Mushalpur, and cost nearly Rs 15 crore to build.

Representative image

The plant is equipped with 960 ring frame spindles and can produce 450 kg of silk daily. This makes it the largest of its kind in the region. During the inauguration, Boro praised the project for its potential to boost the rural economy and create sustainable livelihoods, especially for women traditionally involved in Eri silk production.

Employment Opportunities and Economic Growth

Boro emphasised that economic prosperity depends on having sufficient industries. He encouraged collective efforts to ensure the plant's success. The project aims to address youth migration by offering local employment opportunities. Many young people leave the state for jobs elsewhere, often in similar plants.

He also acknowledged challenges in cocoon rearing and machinery shortages due to rising demand. Boro stressed that modern technology is vital for overcoming these issues. The project is expected to significantly contribute to the development of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) by providing jobs to rural youth.

Impact on Local Communities

Bidyut Bikash Rajkonwar, Chief Operating Officer of the Eri Silk Spinning Mill, stated, "The plant will provide direct employment to 375 individuals and indirect livelihood to approximately 50,000 households." Currently, 22 people have been directly employed at the mill, with 54 per cent belonging to the Boro community.

The initiative not only aims to create jobs but also focuses on sustainable growth for local communities. By integrating modern technology with traditional practices, it seeks to enhance productivity and meet increasing demand efficiently.

This development marks a significant step towards strengthening local economies and providing stable employment options within Assam. The focus remains on ensuring that such projects continue to support regional growth while preserving cultural heritage through traditional crafts like Eri silk production.