Sericulture
Sericulture rearing has emerged as a prominent and successful practice among the Rabha tribal people residing in the Rani, Chayani, and Chaygaon Development Block of Kamrup Rural, Assam. With approximately 650 households actively engaged in sericulture throughout the year, this traditional occupation has not only contributed to the community’s economic upliftment but has also been instrumental in fostering a sustainable livelihood. Recognizing the potential of sericulture, the Diya Foundation has been actively involved in promoting and supporting this industry within the community. This article explores the efforts made by the Diya Foundation to develop and institutionalize the value chain of sericulture in the region.
Background
The Rabha tribal community, residing in the Rani, Chayani, and Chaygaon Development Block of Kamrup Rural, Assam, has long been involved in sericulture rearing. Sericulture involves the cultivation of silk through the rearing of silkworms and subsequent processing of silk threads. The Rabha people have honed their sericulture skills over generations, resulting in a thriving cottage industry that provides them with a sustainable source of income.
Diya Foundation's Role
The Diya Foundation, recognizing the potential of sericulture as a means of economic empowerment for the Rabha community, has taken proactive steps to promote and support this industry. The foundation has implemented a comprehensive approach that encompasses training, equipment support, and the establishment of a robust value chain.
Training
The foundation offers effective training programs to the Rabha people, focusing on various aspects of sericulture rearing techniques. These training sessions cover essential topics such as silkworm rearing, mulberry cultivation, disease management, silk harvesting, and post-harvest processing. By imparting these skills, the foundation empowers the community with the knowledge and expertise required to engage in sericulture effectively.
Equipment and Accessory Support
Diya Foundation recognizes the significance of appropriate equipment and accessories in ensuring successful sericulture practices. To aid the Rabha community, the foundation provides sporadic support in terms of equipment and accessories required for rearing and reeling silk. This assistance includes the provision of rearing trays, mulberry bushes, silk spinning machines, and other necessary tools. By offering such support, the foundation enables the community to enhance their productivity and the quality of silk produced.
Value Chain Development
Institutionalizing the value chain of sericulture is crucial for its long-term sustainability. The Diya Foundation works towards establishing a well-structured and organized sericulture value chain within the community. This involves linking the sericulture producers with the buyers, ensuring fair pricing, creating marketing opportunities, and facilitating the sale of silk products. The foundation also assists in establishing cooperative societies or self-help groups to enable collective bargaining power and efficient management of resources.
Impact
The efforts of the Diya Foundation have resulted in substantial positive outcomes for the Rabha tribal community in Kamrup Rural. The promotion of sericulture has generated an additional monthly income of between Rs. 3500 and Rs. 4000 for the participating households. This increase in income has contributed to improved living standards, enhanced education opportunities for children, and overall economic empowerment.