Lakhimpur launches Som plantation drive to boost Muga silk industry

Dibrugarh: In a move to strengthen Assam's traditional Muga silk industry, the Lakhimpur district administration, in collaboration with the sericulture department, planted 1,500 Som saplings at Phukanarhat village on Sunday. The plantation drive, carried out on a 10-bigha plot of land, marks the first phase of an ambitious initiative aimed at supporting local farmers who are engaged in Muga silk production.The event, which was attended by district commissioner Pronab Jit Kakoty and senior superintendent of police Gunendra Deka, along with several other officials from the sericulture department, witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers, local residents and community members."Som trees are fundamental to Muga silk production. This plantation drive will help in securing livelihood of hundreds of farmers. By increasing the number of trees, we are directly supporting the growth of Assam's traditional silk industry," Kakoty said.The Som trees, scientifically known as Persea Bombycina, serve as the primary food source for the muga silkworm (Antheraea Assamensis), which produces the golden silk known as Muga silk. This evergreen, aromatic, medium-sized tree is native to India's northeastern region, particularly Assam and parts of Uttarakhand.Moreover, the evergreen nature of these trees ensure year-round availability of leaves, providing stability to silkworm rearing activities.Officials from the sericulture department highlighted the technical aspects of the plantation, ensuring proper spacing and care protocols for optimal growth. "Som trees are the backbone of Muga silk production. Unlike other silk varieties, Muga silk cannot be mass-produced without these trees. This initiative ensures that farmers have access to ample foliage, which directly translates to higher silk yield. We have selected high-quality saplings and provided guidelines for maintenance to ensure maximum survival rates," an official said.The golden Muga silk, exclusive to Assam, holds the Geographical Indication (GI) status and is deeply intertwined with the state's cultural identity.