Jharkhand Showcases Tasar Silk Production in R-Day Parade | 30 Jan 2024

Jharkhand's tableau in the Republic Day parade on 26^th January 2024, showcased the skill of tribal women in the production of Tasar silk.

The tableau depicted the Tasar moth rearing, cocoon production, weaving and the modern journey of Tasar garments from design to global distribution.
The performance exuded the vibrant spirit of Jharkhand through the "jhumar" folk dance and indigenous music.
Tasar Silk:
- It is a type of wild silk, which is made from silkworms that feed on plants like Asan and Arjun.
- In different parts of India it is known as tusaar, tusser, tushar, tusa, tassore, and tasar etc.
- The silk can also be found in shades of brown, cream, and orange.
- The threads of tasar silk are often thicker than those of other silks, and they are woven in a way that creates a 'checkerboard' pattern.
- It is lightweight yet strong, with a luxuriously soft feel often compared to that of cashmere or velvet.
- It does not retain moisture, and can be worn in warmer climates of the world.
India is the second-largest producer of tussar silk and the exclusive producer of Indian tussar (also known as tropical tussar), which is largely tended to by tribals.
In India, it is primarily produced in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Currently, Jharkhand is one of the largest producers.
- China, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh are global producers of tasar silk.

India stands as the world's second-largest producer of raw silk after China.
India boasts a diverse range of silk types, including Mulberry, Tasar, Muga, and Eri. The variations arise from the distinct feeding habits of the silkworms.
The silk industry stands as one of India's largest foreign exchange earners, contributing significantly to the country's economic landscape.
The major silk-producing states in the country are Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.