Silk USP.
Lead Agency: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER).
Partners: Government of Assam, Central Silk Board, Ministry of Textiles.
Launching Officials: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and CM Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Total Budget: ₹396–411 crore (over 3 years).
Muga Silk: World's only naturally golden silk, produced by the Antheraea assamensis silkworm.
GI Tag Status: India's first GI-tagged silk (granted in 2007).
Beneficiaries: Nearly 2.6 lakh rearer and weaver families.
Key Districts Covered: Jorhat, Sivasagar, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Majuli, Sualkuchi.
Key Targets by 2028: Create 30 FPOs, establish 5 modern processing units, regenerate 5,000 hectares of host plants, increase exports to over 2,000 kg.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the main goal of Mission Senehjori?
A: The main goal is to transform Assam's Muga silk sector into a globally competitive, high-value luxury textile ecosystem. This involves strengthening the entire supply chain from silkworm rearing to exporting finished products.
Q2: What is unique about Muga silk?
A: Muga silk is unique because it is the world's only naturally golden silk. It is produced only in Assam by the Antheraea assamensis silkworm and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which legally protects its origin and authenticity.
Q3: Who is launching the project and what is the total cost?
A: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the project. The total estimated investment for the mission is between ₹396 and ₹411 crore, to be spent over three years.
Q4: What are some of the specific targets of the mission?
A: Key targets include regenerating 5,000 hectares of host plants, setting up a Muga spun mill and five modern processing units, forming 30 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and increasing the value of Muga yarn to ₹30,000-45,000 per kg.
Q5: How many people will this mission help?
A: The mission aims to directly benefit nearly 2.6 lakh (260,000) rearer and weaver families whose livelihoods depend on the Muga silk industry in Assam.