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Models walk the ramp in Naga made silk attire at The Heritage, in Kohima on Nov. 27.[/caption]
With an aim to promote the locally produce silk of Nagaland, the department of Sericulture organised the ‘Naga silk show’ at the Heritage complex in Kohima on Nov. 27.
Director of Sericulture Department, Imtisosang Ao in his welcome address thanked the farmers, weavers, drillers and those who actively engaged in producing the silk. He said that there is a huge demand of the Naga silk at both the national and international level. The main idea of the event was to promote the Naga silk through young entrepreneurs, Ao said. “If you buy silk material, you are helping the farmers and promoting them,” he added.
Advisor of Horticulture, Mhathung Yanthan said that there four types of breeds at which the state serves as a suitable climatic condition for all types of breed, particularly in Wokha district.
Speaking about the historical background, he said that it’s “very interesting,” as it is a valued item for as long as time Before Christ. It’s a poor man’s work but rich man clothes, he added. He went on to say that a was originated in China, however it was kept as secret. It was only after 380 A.D silk was made as a commodity to everybody, irrespective of their caste and class. He said Nagaland and the department has taken up silk in a big way.
Yanthan encouraged the farmers to take up the silk enterprise professionally as it will generate income.
In Nagaland there are about 3600 farmers producing over 300-400 metric tonnes of cucoons silk, he said. Silk is an expensive item and if the producer could bring down the cost and improvised the production system, business will go up, he added. “The farmers should also get a premium price,” he said.
Further, he urged the people to popularise and attract silk farming. He said, “why not we become the silk bed of Nagaland if not the world.” The Nagas should increase productivity and make the state rich through the silk business.
A visual representation of silk production was showed to the audience. Various models walked the ramp in Naga silk attires designed by the local designers.
Our Correspondent
