Karnataka targets 14,150 tons of raw silk production by FY25-26

The primary architect of India’s silk narrative, Karnataka is aggressively targeting a raw silk production target of 14,150 tons by the close of FY25-26. This is a jump from the 13,276 tons recorded in the previous year, with its expansion into non-traditional northern clusters. The state’s Department of Sericulture, in collaboration with the Central Silk Board, is addressing the historic demand-supply gap by deploying high-efficiency Automatic Reeling Machines (ARMs) that yield international-grade 3A and 4A silk yarn. These technical interventions are critical for penetrating European luxury markets, where traceability and uniform fiber strength are non-negotiable.

Despite the 40 per cent volume contribution to national output, the sector faces a volatile pricing scenario. Cocoon rates currently fluctuate between Rs 650 and Rs 750 per kg, pressured by climate-induced yield variances and escalating labor costs. To stabilize these margins, the government is focusing on value creation through ‘Quality Cocoon to Quality Silk’ initiatives. Adopting technology and introducing digital e-markets are empowering reelers and farmers with transparent, real-time price discovery, states KN Ravi, Joint Director of Sericulture, Karnataka. With silk exports projected to surpass Rs 2,500 crore by FY26-end, the state’s transition toward automated, audit-ready manufacturing remains the linchpin of India’s global competitiveness.

Operating a fully integrated value chain from cocoon to retail, KSIC focuses on high-end sarees for domestic and NRI markets. With plans to modernize centuries-old looms, the corporation targets steady revenue growth through heritage preservation.