Threads of change: Women empowering the Silk Heritage of Manipur

Loukrakpam Bina Chanu
Contd from previous issue
The construction of an Eri Spun Silk Mill in Manipur is expected to significantly boost local silk production, create employment, and enhance market linkages. Govt- run sericulture farms are being revitalized, with planta- tion activities and raw silk seed organizations working to stabilize supply chains.
Despite these advances, challenges persist. Productivity levels are still lower compared to neighbouring states like Assam, and issues of infrastructure, disease management, and access to national and international markets limit large-scale expansion. However, cultural continuity ensures resilience: silk weaving remains embedded in Manipuri rituals, festivals, and identity, sustaining demand at the community level.Thepresent status of sericulture in Manipur can be described as transitional, marked by government investment, institutional support, and cultural pride. With ongoing projects and the upcoming silk mill, the industry is poised for growth, balancing heritage preservation with modern economic opportunities.
Sericulture in Manipur has always been closely associated with women, both as custodians of tradition and as drivers of livelihood. From the rearing of silkworms to the weaving of exquisite fabrics, women have played a central role in sustaining this heritage industry. Silkweaving was traditionally carried out within households, where women passed down skills across generations, embedding sericulture into the rhythm of daily life. The Government of Manipur can encourage women in the sericulture industry by adopting innovative measures that connect local heritage with national and international opportunities. At the national level, initiatives of SILK SAMAGRA- 2, the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), and Central Silk Board training programs can be expanded specifically for women-led cooperatives, ensuring access to improved silkworm breeds, disease management technologies, and modern weaving equipment. Establishing women’s producer companies and self-help groups with microfinance support would strengthen collective bargaining and market access. At the international level, the government can promote Manipuri eri silk, often branded as “peace silk,” through eco-label certifications and partnerships with ethical fashion houses, tapping into the growing global demand for sustainable textiles. Creating Silk Heritage Villages that integrate sericulture with tourism would allow women artisans to showcase weaving traditions to international visitors, while digital literacy programs can empo- wer them to sell products via global e-commerce platforms. Collaboration with international research institutes could introduce bio- friendly silkworm strains and innovative dyeing techniques, enhancing productivity and appeal. By combining national schemes for rural development with international branding and market linkages, the Government of Manipur can transform sericulture into a sustainable livelihood for women, preserving cultural identity while opening pathways to global recognition and economic independence. The writer is a Guest Faculty at the Department of Zoology, Manipur University, Canchipur – 795003, E- mail: bina.chanu@manipuruniv.ac.in