DIMAPUR: A six day skill development training programme on Eri silk spinning using motorised machines, conducted by the Department of Sericulture, Phek district, concluded at Upper Khomi village on May 9.
The programme was sanctioned under the State Plan 2026–27 to modernise traditional practices and empower local Eri silk rearers and spinners. Director of Sericulture, Zacivelu Khamo, attended the culmination programme and encouraged trainees to take up Eri silk farming as a sustainable economic activity. The training was conducted under the supervision of departmental officials including Assistant Sericulture Officer, Phek, Seliya; Master Spinners, Sentiyangla and Lachum; and Technician cum Trainer, Atsung.
Resource persons provided hands on instruction on operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of motorised spinning machines. Officials informed that the machines used during the training would be awarded to successful participants, noting that they can operate on both solar energy and electricity, making them suitable for areas with irregular power supply.
Assistance for constructing Eri silkworm rearing houses and subsidies for prospective farmers would also be extended based on viable proposals. Beneficiaries were apprised of a Cocoon Bank facility in Dimapur for procuring raw materials at subsidised rates, while support would be provided to establish market linkages for Eri silk products.
According to VDB secretary of Upper Khomi village, Külüpoyi V. Vadeo, the initiative generated enthusiasm among beneficiaries and is expected to enhance production capacity and livelihood generation in the district through technical training, machinery support and market assistance.
