Tasar Silk at Republic Day Parade

• 10 Jan 2024

Why in News?

Jharkhand's tableau showcasing the production of the famed tasar silk in the Santhal Pargana region was selected for the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

• Jharkhand is among 16 states and Union Territories the tableaux of which have been selected for the parade.

Key Points

• The country will be introduced to the silk of Dumka and Godda of Jharkhand.
  • Sarihan variety of tasar silk is found in the Dumka district.
• There are four types of silk -- Mulberry, Eri, Muga and tasar. Mulberry, Eri and Muga are common and can be produced indoors but tasar is wild in nature.
• Country's 70% tasar is produced in Jharkhand, of which 40% is produced in the state's Santhal Pargana region.
  • The tasar silk is transported to Bhagalpur in Bihar, where the final product is made.

Status of India’s Silk Industry

• 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.