Sericulture Deptt issues advisory for silkworm rearers in Kashmir

Srinagar, June 3:  The rise in day temperatures has raised concerns about potential outbreaks of diseases affecting silkworm larvae in various areas of the Kashmir Division.

As silkworm rearing is at its peak stage, extra care is essential until cocoon formation. In response, an advisory has been issued for silkworm rearers, providing critical recommendations for successful silkworm rearing and cocoon production.

As per the statement issued here, rearers are advised to avoid overcrowding the silkworm larvae and ensure adequate spacing for healthy growth. It is crucial to feed the larvae with fresh, quality mulberry leaves while avoiding soiled, over-stored, or dirty leaves. Additionally, insecticide-sprayed leaves should not be fed to the silkworms. Harvesting or picking of mulberry leaves from plants in and around orchards is also discouraged.

Diseased larvae should be picked and buried in separate pits to prevent the spread of disease. Adequate ventilation is necessary, achieved by keeping doors and windows open. Larvae should be reared on the floor or shelves in the ground or middle floor of the dwelling house. To control secondary contamination, dusting lime powder and Vijetha on the silkworm larvae is recommended.

In case of disease incidence, rearers are encouraged to contact their respective District Sericulture Officers at the provided contact numbers for further assistance: District Sericulture Officer Anantnag - 7006094954, District Sericulture Officer Kulgam - 7006094954, District Sericulture Officer Budgam - 9797780231, District Sericulture Officer Baramulla - 6005166504, District Sericulture Officer Bandipora - 9797123217, District Sericulture Officer Kupwara - 6005166504, District Sericulture Officer Ganderbal - 9682555762, District Sericulture Officer Pulwama - 9149823623, District Sericulture Officer Shopian - 9149823623 and District Sericulture Officer Srinagar - 9797780231.

The statement reads that the advisory aims to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks and ensure the successful rearing of silkworms, ultimately leading to high-quality cocoon production.