Changing Climatic Patterns and Their Implications for Muga Sericulture in Jorhat, Assam, India

Abstract

Muga silk, produced by the muga silkworm Antheraea assamensis, is a unique, high-value fabric known for its golden color, durability and cultural significance. Muga silk has been granted GI status in India (Das, 2022). However, climate change and rising temperatures threaten silkworm growth and silk production, as these insects are highly sensitive to environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, posing risks to the sericulture industry. The study investigates the impact of climate change on production of muga silk, with a special focus on five regions such as Jagduar, Titabar, Borhula, Tamulbari, and Lahdoigarh of Jorhat district of Assam. Muga silk is indigenous to Assam and holds immense cultural, economic and ecological significance. However, changing climatic conditions have been adversely affecting the productivity and quality of muga silk. Based on data collected over a 5 year period (2018-19 to 2022-23) and field insights from the selected regions, the findings clearly indicate that climate change has significantly influenced both the biological and economic dimensions of Muga silk production in the Jorhat district. These changes in climatic conditions are highly impacting the quality and quantity of leaves of host plants, which are essential for larval nourishment. Moreover, farmers have reported increased larval mortality, lower cocoon yields, and diminished fiber quality. The present study aims to examine the key parameters influencing sericulture and analyze their direct and indirect effects on muga cocoon and silk yield.