India continues to be the second largest producer of silk in the world and has the distinction of producing all the four varieties of silk. In 2003-04, production was 15,742 M.T. of this Mulberry accounted for 13,970 M.T. i.e. 88.7%, and non-Mulberry silk 1,772 M.T. comprising Eri 8.6%, Tasar 2.0% and Muga 0.7% of the total production of raw silk. Sericulture provides gainful occupation to more than five million people in the rural and semiurban areas in India. Of these, a sizeable number of workers belong to the economically weaker sections of society. There is substantial involvement of women in this industry.
Budget
For 2004-05, a provision of Rs. 102.66 crores under Plan and Rs. 60.66 crore under non-plan have been made for Central Silk Board (CSB).
Silk Exports
The silk export earnings during the years 2002-03, 2003-04 & 2004-05 (April to Nov.) are at Table 8.2.
Table 8.1

Table 8.2
(Rs. in crores)

CENTRAL SILK BOARD
The Central Silk Board (CSB) was set up in 1,949 when the Central Government assumed responsibility for the development of the silk industry with the Parliament passing the Central Silk Board Act, 1948. Headquartered at Bangalore,and headed by a Chairman and 35 members, the Board works in the three broad areas – Research & Technology Development, Seed Maintenance, and Development of Sericulture & Silk Industry, to support, supplement & facilitate the efforts of the State Governments. It also extends support to States in the form of joint projects and developmental assistance under plan schemes. The Board also undertakes voluntary inspection of exportable silk goods for quality.
( to be continued )