A Conceptual Review on Sericulture in Northeast India: Viability, Opportunities and Policy Pathways

Abstract

India is the world’s second-largest raw silk producer and is known for uniquely cultivating all five silk types. Sericulture, which is known as silk from silkworms, is labour-intensive, agroforestry-linked, and vital for rural livelihoods. The North eastern (NE) states, namely Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura, contribute mainly eri and muga (Vanya) silks in addition to some mulberry. To conceptually review sericulture “viability” that included the following aspects, like agro-ecological, economic, social, institutional, market, and environmental, and identify thematic constraints/ opportunities. In addition to that, it also proposes actionable policy and research directions for NE India. Narrative review of government reports, ICAR/CSB publications, and peer-reviewed literature (2010–2025) on NE sericulture. The major findings highlight that NE sericulture has strong cultural roots and gender-inclusive traditions, especially eri, and growing demand for unique silk products. Mulberry yields and acreage have declined in Assam, whereas eri/muga output has risen. Agro-ecological conditions such as high rainfall, humidity, and altitudinal diversity suit forest-based eri and muga systems, but also pose challenges, most commonly temperature stress and pest outbreaks. Economically, sericulture can yield higher, more stable incomes than many crops, though market linkages are weak and price volatility is a major threat. Institutions provide schemes (Silk Samagra, state policies), but extension and credit often lag in most instances. NE-specific opportunities include branding of GI-protected muga, integration of sericulture with agroforestry (e.g., eri’s dual-use host plants), women’s empowerment, and sustainable production. Key constraints are disease management, poor seed and planting material supply, limited skilled labour, and fragmented value chains. Sericulture remains a high-potential rural sector in Northeast India, but requires coordinated policy support and research. We synthesize NE sericulture issues into a conceptual “viability” framework and recommend targeted interventions by state and central agencies, research institutes, and NGOs. A strategic research agenda that impacts evaluations, value-chain studies, gender analysis, and climate adaptation is outlined. The findings highlight data gaps, especially of state-level stats. and urge evidence-based policy to sustain NE sericulture.