Gopalpur's Tussar silk weavers face crisis

Gopalpur, renowned for its exquisite Tussar silk saris, is facing a looming crisis. Shortage of cocoons, the primary raw material, is forcing hundreds of weavers to abandon their traditional craft in favor of cotton weaving.

For two decades, Gopalpur's economic backbone relied on Tussar silk production. However, consecutive crop failures and government supply disruptions have crippled the industry. The lack of cocoons, coupled with the absence of effective government support, has pushed many weavers to the brink.

Despite Gopalpur Tussar receiving the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2009, promising increased exports and brand value, the reality for weavers remains bleak. With no alternative livelihood, they are struggling to survive by shifting to cotton weaving.

While Cuttack's textile authorities claim recent cocoon harvests and increased supply are underway, the damage inflicted on the once-vibrant Tussar silk industry might be irreparable.