Mysuru: The Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI) in Mysuru recently conducted a training programme on ‘Sericulture and the Silk Industry’ under the Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) initiative, Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi.

A total of 22 participants from seven countries — Ethiopia, Ghana, Philippines, Romania, South Sudan, Uganda, and Thailand — attended the programme. Dr. S. Balasarswathi, Director (I/c) of CSRTI Mysuru, welcomed and provided an overview of the programme.

P. Shivakumar, IFS, Member Secretary of the Central Silk Board (CSB) in Bengaluru, inaugurated and discussed the objectives and significance of ITEC training in aiding sericulture development in emerging countries. He highlighted that the training would equip participants with practical knowledge of technologies developed by the CSB-CSRTI, which they can apply to enhance sericulture in their respective nations.

Shivakumar also noted that when the International Sericultural Commission (ISC) moved to India, it had 13 member nations, but under India’s leadership, this number has now expanded to 23.

Dr. S. Mandira Moorthy, Director (Tech) of the CSB, commended CSRTI Mysuru for its pivotal role in advancing tropical sericulture in India. “CSRTI has developed numerous technologies, products and by-products related to the sericulture industry. Additionally, CSB is planning to organise an international training program focusing on the silkworm seed sector in the near future,” she said.

Padmanav Nayak, Assistant Secretary of ISC, elaborated on the ISC’s role in promoting sericulture worldwide. Dr. R. Meenal, Scientist-D and Head of the Training Division at CSRTI, proposed a vote of thanks. Scientists, officers, staff and project assistants from CSRTI were also present.