New Delhi, Aug. 25 -- Malda; The Kaliachak Cocoon Market in Malda is set for a major transformation, with the Centre and the West Bengal government planning to modernise it on the lines of Karnataka's famous Ramanagara silk cocoon market. The initiative aims to address long-standing infrastructural problems and create a more transparent and efficient trading system for thousands of silk farmers.
A team of officials from the Centre and the state visited the market on Monday to inspect existing facilities and assess the scope for development. The delegation included Dr S Gandhi Das, Director of the Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Surjit Chowdhury, Deputy Director of the State Sericulture Department in Malda, and scientist Tanmoy Chakraborty of the Central Silk Board's Bagmara office.
After the inspection, officials said a detailed report would be prepared soon. Proposed improvements include electronic weighing machines, cocoon testing equipment, purified drinking water, adequate toilets, rest houses, stronger security and direct banking facilities. Farmers will also be able to view cocoon prices from markets across India through computer screens installed at the market.
Dr S Gandhi Das said: "The market will be developed on the Ramanagara model, ensuring greater transparency and fair prices for farmers through digital technology and e-auction facilities."
Officials said cocoons will be sold through electronic auctions after scientific grading and weighing. Banking services will help farmers handle large transactions safely, while accommodation facilities will benefit cultivators travelling from distant areas.
Spread over nearly two acres, the Kaliachak market was established during the Left Front period and attracts farmers from Malda, Nadia,
Murshidabad, Birbhum and neighbouring regions. At present, the market remains active for around five months each year due to multiple cocoon production cycles.
The project is expected to benefit nearly 66,000 silk farming families and more than 3,000 small silk reeling units in
Malda alone.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.