UditVani, Jamshedpur: The Jharkhand Pavilion has emerged as a major highlight at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, showcasing the state’s remarkable leadership in Tussar silk production.
Contributing nearly 70% of India’s total Tussar output, Jharkhand has firmly established itself as the country’s Tussar capital — a position built on natural abundance, traditional skills and the growing economic empowerment of women.
Jharkhand Becomes the Hub of India’s Tussar Ecosystem
Driving with a clear vision to strengthen rural livelihoods, expand raw silk output, and create a complete Tussar ecosystem, Jharkhand today operates 100 cocoon preservation centres and 40 fully equipped project centres across the state. Tussar silk production has witnessed a massive rise — from 90 metric tonnes in 2001 to 1,363 metric tonnes in 2024–25, reinforcing Jharkhand’s dominance in the sector.
At the heart of this success are the state’s women. Nearly 50–60% of work in Tussar production — from cocoon processing to yarn making and fabric creation — is led by women, who have become the backbone of the silk value chain. Notably, yarn production is carried out entirely by women workers, resulting in greater financial independence and community empowerment.
To further support women’s participation, the Industries Department and Directorate of Sericulture are implementing multiple schemes in collaboration with Jharcraft, JSLPS, and other partner institutions. Women are being provided training, employment opportunities and direct market access. At various Common Facility Centres (CFCs) across the state, groups of 30–60 women engage in production, skill development and entrepreneurship activities. Special training initiatives are also being offered to young rearers and farmers to expand sericulture-based livelihoods.
Live Demonstrations Draw Visitors
The centre of attraction at the Jharkhand Pavilion is a live demonstration of the traditional process of extracting silk thread from Tussar cocoons. Trained women artisans showcase each stage — from boiling the cocoons to reeling the delicate thread. “Tamsum,” a master weaver, demonstrates handloom weaving using this freshly prepared yarn, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Jharkhand’s silk heritage and the craftsmanship rooted in rural and tribal communities.
Alongside these demonstrations, Jharcraft is displaying its finest Tussar-based handicrafts, handlooms and tribal artworks, highlighting its pivotal role in taking Jharkhand’s rural artistry to national and international platforms.
The Jharkhand Pavilion at IITF 2025 brings together the shine of Tussar, the strength of women artisans, and the progress of rural Jharkhand, offering visitors a vivid and inspiring experience of the state’s journey from tradition to transformation.
