By Ayodhya Prasad Singh

In the lush landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, a time-honored tradition weaves its story through the lives of its people – sericulture. This age-old practice not only stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage but also offers promising economic prospects. The Union Territory’s distinctive geographical attributes, such as its temperate climate and diverse biodiversity, create an ideal environment for producing high-quality cocoons. However, in recent years, there has been a decline in the production of silk worms in the region. Once a flourishing industry, sericulture is now facing significant challenges.

But, now, 2013-batch IAS officer Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, who is Director of Sericulture in J&K, is changing the scenario. By focusing on expanding Mulberry cultivation and enhancing seed quality, while also investing in the training and development of farmers under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP), he has made noticeable improvements in the Sericulture department in just five months.

Mr. Bhat’s vision extends beyond just doubling Silkworm Seed Production; he also aims to double the number of farmers involved in sericulture within the state. Presently, there are 27,000 farmers engaged in sericulture activities. Indian Masterminds spoke with Mr. Bhat to learn more about his initiatives and his strategies for reviving the industry.

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