Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 30 2009:
A one day awareness programme was organised by the All Manipur Sericulture Farmers' Development Association under the sponsorship of Central Silk Board, Imphal Research Extension Centre at SWC campus, Khongman today.
The programme participated by around 100 sericulture farmers was graced by Central Silk Board, Imphal Extension Centre scientists Dr K Chaoba, Dr Biren Rana and president of the All Manipur Sericulture Farmers' Development Association Kh Dhurba Singh as presidium members.
Speaking at the occasion, secretary general of the All Manipur Sericulture Farmers' Development Association Puyam Joy said that the agro-based industry of sericulture can be a mainstay of the State's economy.
Saying that sericulture flourished in Manipur in the past, Joy asserted that the same industry can make Manipur economically self-reliant if sericulture is developed using scientific methods and modern technology.
Dr K Chaoba said that sericulture provides a source of income not only to sericulture farmers but also to other people engaged in different stages of sericulture industry.
Even as sericulture industry was lagging for sometime in Manipur due to lack of awareness among the people, the agro-based industry has been steadily developing, Dr Chaoba said.
Later, T Inaomacha of Central Silk Board spoke on common diseases of cocoon, Th Sanajoaba on extension and rearing concept and Ch Priyokumar on reeling.
An exhibition displaying models which elucidated transportation of silkworms, eggs, mulberry plantation and silkworm breeds was also a part of the programme.