The Indian government has set an ambitious goal to scale up its national silk production to 60,000 tonnes by the 2030-31 financial year. Along with this expansion, the country aims to ascend to the top position globally in silk production by 2028-29, according to Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh. Speaking at the 77th Foundation Day celebration of the Central Silk Board (CSB) in Bengaluru, Singh highlighted that India’s silk output has already risen significantly from 26,000 tonnes in 2014 to 42,000 tonnes today.

The government remains committed to expanding the sericulture sector and driving economic progress for silk farmers. By improving the yield of mulberry leaves and increasing cocoon rearing cycles, officials aim to raise the annual income of silk farmers to between ₹10 lakh and ₹12 lakh.

Singh emphasized that international demand for Indian silk is surging at a time when production in China is experiencing a decline. To capitalize on this shift, new scientific innovations, high-yielding hybrid varieties, and modern machinery must be delivered directly to farmers on the ground.

Strengthening the complete value chain—from silkworm rearing to reeling and weaving—remains a core priority. This strategy supports India's broader vision to expand its overall textile market to $300 billion while ensuring baseline economic security for weavers and workers across the industry.

Technology integration plays a pivotal role in this expansion strategy. Padmini Singla, Joint Secretary (Silk) at the Ministry of Textiles, noted that high-yielding hybrids and advanced machinery are being paired with modern tools such as artificial intelligence, GIS, and machine learning. These technologies will be utilized to monitor product quality and enhance total production capacity.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Shobha Karandlaje underscored the crucial role of Karnataka as the nation's leading silk producer. The government is focusing on infrastructure development, modern technologies, and high-density production methods to manufacture silk that meets demanding global export standards. By supporting local entrepreneurs through MSME schemes and subsidies, India aims to reduce import reliance, broaden market access, and generate vibrant new employment opportunities across the sericulture landscape.