GUWAHATI: Researchers of the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), have conducted an extensive scientific field research regarding eri and muga silks which will play a significant role in formulating development strategies for this sector.
Titled the ‘Diagnostic Study On Weaver’s Need In Respect Of Eri And Muga Silk,’ the final report has already been accepted by World Bank consultants.
The study was conducted by Dr. Pratul Ch. Kalita, Associate Professor, Department of Design, IIT G, and Prof. Amarendra Kumar Das, Department of Design, IIT G.
Highlighting the focus of this study, Dr. Kalita said, “It is a very detailed study on Eri and Muga silk under the aegis of World Bank-financed Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project (APART). The project primarily focuses on the study of the existing Design Value Chain of Eri and Muga Silk in Assam, starting from weaving (supply side – value creation) to marketing (demand side – value delivery), and formulation of Design Management Strategy to align demand and supply.”
The survey was conducted amongst 1,282 weavers, in eight districts of Assam including Jorhat, Kamrup, Majuli, Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Sonitpur, Charaideu and Biswanath.
The study formulated five design management strategies - skill development and skill-up gradation strategy, design studio and digital design bank, System Design Solution for integrated Supply Chain Management, frame loom and a new semi-automatic loom to improve productivity and quality, and attracting weavers for Eri-Muga weaving.
The study is expected to structure and streamline the entire value chain of eri and muga silk. The Assam Rural Infrastructure and Agricultural Services Society (ARIAS) is keen to implement strategies proposed in the report.