The Influence of Financial Status on the Sustainability of Mulberry–Silkworm Farming Systems

Abstract

Mulberry sericulture is a significant agro-based rural enterprise that integrates agricultural production with cottage industry-based silk processing. This study examines the financial and socio-economic dimensions of mulberry farming, focusing on its contribution to rural livelihoods, employment generation and income diversification. The analysis is based on secondary data sources and field-based observations covering mulberry cultivation, silkworm rearing, cocoon production and associated value-chain activities. The findings indicate that mulberry sericulture provides a relatively stable income stream because of its short production cycle and the possibility of multiple harvests within a year. This cyclical production system enables farmers to generate periodic cash flow compared with conventional seasonal crops. The study further shows that sericulture supports intensive family labour utilisation, particularly through women’s involvement in silkworm rearing and cocoon processing, thereby contributing to household income and gender participation in rural economies. Economic assessment suggests that initial establishment costs are moderate, while operational costs remain manageable under standard farming conditions. However, profitability is influenced by disease incidence in silkworms, climatic variation, input availability and cocoon market-price fluctuations. Despite these challenges, sericulture continues to demonstrate potential as a viable rural livelihood option when supported by adequate technical guidance, institutional support and market infrastructure. The study concludes that mulberry sericulture can contribute to rural development and income stability when constraints in production and marketing systems are addressed through targeted interventions and capacity-building programmes.