Odisha to Be Developed as India’s Silk Hub: Union Minister Giriraj Singh
Union Minister Giriraj Singh announced plans to develop Odisha as the silk hub of India, with support from the Odisha government and the Central Silk Board. Speaking at the BJP state headquarters on Tuesday, the Union Textiles Minister highlighted Odisha’s vast potential in silk production and the handloom sector.
Currently, India produces 132 metric tonnes of silk, with 131 metric tonnes being Tussar silk. Singh emphasized that 29 out of 30 districts in Odisha are engaged in silk and handicraft work, supporting nearly 3.5 lakh artisans and weavers.
Odisha to Be Declared a ‘Silk State’
After discussions with the Chief Secretary of Odisha, Singh revealed plans to officially declare Odisha as a Silk State, positioning it as India’s leading silk producer. This initiative aims to boost silk production in the state, helping India strengthen its position in the global silk market.
The BJP-led government will also select one district in Odisha for focused textile sector development, ensuring proper market linkage and tourism promotion.
Mission to Boost Weaver Incomes
The Centre and state government will work in mission mode to enhance the earnings of handloom weavers, setting a target of Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 per month per artisan. This initiative is expected to significantly improve livelihoods in the state’s textile sector.
Odisha to Benefit from Increased Budget Allocations
Highlighting the Union Budget 2025-26, Singh pointed out that India’s annual budget has grown from Rs 16 lakh crore in 2014 to Rs 51 lakh crore for the upcoming fiscal year. Odisha, in particular, will benefit from a higher railway allocation, which has surged from Rs 838 crore (2009-14) to Rs 10,500 crore in FY’26.
Additionally, Odisha has witnessed growth in aviation infrastructure, with the number of operational airports rising to five under the Modi government. The Centre plans to introduce air connectivity to 120 new destinations, with Sambalpur, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Ganjam, and Keonjhar among the key districts expected to benefit.
Tourism Development Plans for Odisha
Singh also announced that the Hirakud reservoir area and Satkosia will be developed into major tourist destinations, with central funding allocated to boost tourism infrastructure.
With these initiatives, Odisha is poised to become a key player in India’s silk production, textile industry, and tourism sector, driving economic growth and employment opportunities in the state.
