Status of sericulture in Jammu and Kashmir with special reference to Reasi District

Abstract

Sericulture, known as the “Queen of Textiles” industry, provides a vital livelihood to millions in rural India due to its low capital requirement, high employment potential, and profitability. India is the only country producing all five commercial silks—mulberry, tropical tasar, oak tasar, eri, and muga with Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) recognized for its high-quality bivoltine silk. The present study entitled “Status of Sericulture with Special Reference to Pouni Tehsil, Reasi District of Jammu and Kashmir UT” was undertaken to analyze the status of sericulture, cocoon production, and socio-economic conditions of sericulturists. Data were collected from 42 farmers selected across five villages (Lehar, Kundkhanyari, Kheralair, Kothian, and Ransoo) using a structured questionnaire and personal interviews. Results revealed that most farmers (66.6%) were elderly, with moderate to low education levels (47.6% secondary; 21.4% illiterate). Families were mostly medium-sized (56%), and small land holdings (