Jharkhand

• 30 Jan 2024

Jharkhand Showcases Tasar Silk Production in R-Day Parade

Why in News?

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.

Key Points

• 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.

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.