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This near idyllic situation has risen out of the foresight and dynamism of some stellar government servants. Mr. Virendra Kumar, IFS who was posted as Special Secretary to Industries Department in 2005-2009 was amongst the first who realized the vast potential of this activity to create wealth and immense livelihood opportunities for the locals. This was then seriously taken up by the Department of Industries, JharkCraft that went all out to promote the industry. Indeed it is actively seeking and sustaining a network of sales and promotions has been a key factor in sustaining the industry and keeping hundreds of home-fires burning. The state has entered into a MoU with Handloom and Handicraft Corporation, Government of India. Many state emporia in metro cities stock ‘Tussar’ and several firms source this silk for export mainly to Singapore and China How a humble cottage industry which is totally non-polluting and labour-intensive has become an entity in the national and international market. The item is a foreign exchange earner and the state is third largest silk producing state in the country. In 2008-09, Jharkhand produced 400 metric tones of Tussar and is now chasing a target of 700 metric tonnes to contribute to the national target of 18,450 metric tonnes. There are 75,000 looms in the state, most of them government owned. The silk production consists of several stages and what is heartening that Jharkcraft has a role to play throughout this phased production. In Godda district, Santhal paragana there are weavers clusters and Jharkcraft has been instrumental in providing training to around 10,000 weavers to weave cloth from the silk thread. Even before this stage are a slew of activities which involve the drawing out filaments from each cocoon, meshing them together to make the silk thread. The reeling and spinning of yarn also absorbs much of the labour force. Then there are units who make dresses which are also backed by training and marketing by Jharkcraft. While the markets are growing, so are the forests! More trees are being planted and cared for. Kokun production is playing a role in sustaining and expanding Jharkhand’s green wealth!
There is a lesson to be learnt in the flourishing silk industry in Jharkhand, according to Charkha Development Communication Network. It is possible to contribute to growth in a substantial way by nurturing cottage industries. What is more, is its singular and salutary effect on livelihoods of rural communities? They can continue to remain on their lands, engage in other agricultural activities and yet learn a new skill and engage with a home-grown industry which fetches them another income. In some cases, even make a transition to actually become a ‘producer’ rather than hired labor. Hemlaal Mumu, Minister of Industries, Jharkhand, says that one cannot ignore the role of Tussar industry in creating employment opportunities in the state.

This is an example, which can extend beyond the forests of Jharkhand, beyond the silk industry and beyond the state. Essentially it needs political will backed by a sound understanding of the convergence between societal good, economic growth and environmental protection. (ANI)