NEW DELHI, June 2, 2026: The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the Government of Assam on Tuesday launched Mission Senehjori – Assam Muga Silk USP, a ₹400-crore-plus initiative aimed at revitalising Assam's iconic Muga silk industry, enhancing livelihoods and positioning the state's unique golden silk in global markets.
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| Union Minister for DoNER Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during the launch of Mission Senehjori – Assam Muga Silk USP in New Delhi on June 2, 2026. (Image: X/MDoNER_India) |
The
mission was launched at Sanchar Bhawan in New Delhi in the presence of senior
officials, with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma describing it as a
landmark initiative for the state's traditional silk sector.
Addressing
the gathering, DoNER Secretary Chanchal Kumar highlighted Assam's unique
position as the world's sole producer of authentic Muga silk and outlined the
mission's implementation framework. He emphasized the importance of
Geographical Indication (GI) authentication and digital traceability mechanisms
that will enable buyers to verify the authenticity of Muga products.
He noted
that operational discipline, quality assurance and traceability would
distinguish Mission Senehjori from previous interventions, helping protect the
identity and market value of Assam's prized silk.
Chief
Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked the Ministry of DoNER for conceptualising
and supporting the mission, stating that Muga silk is deeply intertwined with
Assam's cultural identity and heritage.
"Muga
silk is not merely a product; it is part of Assam's civilisational legacy. This
mission will create new opportunities for farmers, rearers, weavers, artisans
and entrepreneurs while preserving our rich cultural heritage," Sarma
said.
The
three-year mission has set ambitious targets to strengthen the entire Muga
value chain. Among its key objectives are increasing Muga silk exports to more
than 2,000 kilograms annually, raising the value realisation of Muga yarn to
between ₹30,000 and ₹45,000 per kilogram, and establishing five modernised
reeling units along with a dedicated Muga Spun Mill.
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The
programme also aims to regenerate 5,000 hectares of Som and Soalu plantations,
the primary host plants essential for Muga silkworm rearing. Experts believe
the restoration of these plantations will be critical for ensuring the
long-term sustainability of Muga production.
A major
focus of the mission is livelihood enhancement. The initiative proposes the
formation of 1,180 Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs) and 30 Farmer Producer
Organisations (FPOs) to strengthen collective marketing, improve production
efficiency and empower farmers and weavers.
Officials
said digital traceability and strict GI authentication will help combat
counterfeit products and strengthen consumer confidence in genuine Assam Muga
silk, thereby opening access to premium domestic and international markets.
Sarma
said the mission reflects the Centre and state's shared commitment to promoting
traditional industries while creating sustainable economic opportunities. He
expressed confidence that Mission Senehjori would help take Assam's Muga silk
to global markets, including the Gulf region, Japan and other international
destinations.
Widely regarded as one of Assam's most treasured traditional crafts, Muga silk is renowned for its natural golden sheen, durability and exclusivity. With the launch of Mission Senehjori, policymakers hope to transform the sector into a major driver of rural livelihoods, exports and cultural preservation while reinforcing Assam's identity as the home of the world's finest Muga silk.
