In a significant move to revitalize Uttar Pradesh’s traditional silk sector, the state government has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Center of Excellence in Lucknow. This initiative aims to modernize silk production, educate consumers on authentic silk identification, and showcase the entire ‘soil to silk’ process under one roof.
The center, located within the Silk Directorate premises, was officially opened by Rakesh Sachan, Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Khadi and Village Industries, Silk, Handloom, and Textiles. Speaking at the event, Sachan emphasized that the facility will serve as an integrated hub for silk production, training, marketing, and quality assurance.
Visitors can now witness every stage of silk manufacturing, from nursery development and mulberry plantation to silkworm rearing, cocoon production, yarn spinning, and finally, the crafting of sarees and garments. This live demonstration is designed to help consumers distinguish pure silk from counterfeit or adulterated products flooding the market.
Beyond education, the center doubles as a training facility, exhibition space, and direct sales outlet for genuine silk products. Local weavers, artisans, farmers, and self-help groups stand to benefit immensely, gaining direct access to markets without intermediaries. Previously an underutilized space, the site has been transformed through dedicated departmental efforts into a showcase for visitors from across India and abroad.
The center highlights production processes for Eri, Mulberry, and Tussar silk, making it a key landmark for understanding Uttar Pradesh’s silk heritage. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision, special drives since 2022 have boosted silk output to 300-350 metric tons annually, with ambitious targets for further growth. Farmers receive training, subsidies, technical aid, and marketing support through central and state schemes.
This development not only promises economic empowerment for rural communities but also positions Uttar Pradesh as a leader in sustainable silk production, blending tradition with innovation for a brighter future.