In a move to bolster collaborative research and development in India’s silk sector, a 30-member team of newly recruited scientists from the Central Silk Board (CSB) and the Central Muga Eri Research & Training Institute (CMER&TI), Lahdoigarh, visited the Department of Sericulture at Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Jorhat, on Saturday.
The delegation, accompanied by Senior Scientists Sintor Antor and Dr Harisha R, engaged in detailed discussions to understand the university’s pioneering work. Dr Mahima Begum, Associate Professor, outlined the department’s mandate, vision, and key achievements, with an elaborate presentation on its diverse research and extension activities crucial for Assam’s rural silk economy.
The interaction aimed at promoting synergy between the national apex body for sericulture and the premier state agricultural university. CMER&TI, specialising in the unique muga and eri silks of Northeast India, works across the value chain, from farm-level research to post-cocoon technology.
“This visit is foundational for our new scientists. Understanding the ground-level research and extension strengths of AAU is vital for creating cohesive national strategies. Such direct dialogue between institutions accelerates the transfer of technology from lab to field,” remarked Senior Scientist Sintor Antor.
The program featured active interactions with all faculty members, including Dr Aruna Singha, Dr Monimala Saikia, and Dr Dhanalakhi Gogoi, concluding on a highly positive note. The exchange is expected to strengthen integrated efforts in addressing regional challenges and boosting the silk industry’s productivity and global footprint.
