Tamil Nadu

Sericulture cluster for Shoolagiri block

Krishnagiri: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has accorded in principle approval for establishment of a sericulture cluster at Shoolagiri block in Krishnagiri district for a period of three years.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, the Assistant General Manager, NABARD, V. Thirumalai, said that the project would follow the participatory cluster approach model for implementation.

Under this model, contribution of other stakeholders in conducting the cluster development interventions was planned, besides contribution from NABARD for meeting the resource requirements to fund the planned promotional interventions.

People’s participation was an important component of the project. The cluster farmers numbering 200 to 225 would be identified and intensively trained in cultivation of mulberry and rearing of cocoons with modern technology so that the farmers would be equipped to take over, own and manage the project on their own.

Mr. Thirumalai said that about 225 farmers in Berigai panchayat in Shoolagiri block would be identified under the project.

The base line survey would commence shortly. Sanjeevi Trust, Hosur, had been identified as the cluster development agency.

A total of 80 farmers having contiguous land in Berigai panchayat would be trained in various aspects of mulberry cultivation, rearing of cocoons, preparation of vermi compost and equip them with drip/sprinkler systems for adopting scientific cultivation techniques.

In addition, efforts would be taken to form farmers clubs and self-help groups. Four model farms would also be established for training the farmers. At the end of the three-year period there would be a perceptible improvement in the livelihood conditions of these farmers, Mr. Thirumalai added.

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