In Punjab’s Dhar block, a nearly forgotten tradition of sericulture has been revived by IFS officer Dharmveer Dairu and the Forest Department. The initiative planted over 37,500 mulberry saplings on 75 hectares of degraded forest land, re-establishing the raw material base farmers had long lost. Alongside, rearing houses, training in modern silkworm care, and equipment like humidifiers and thermometers were provided. 

For farmers such as Sushila Devi, the difference has been dramatic. From earning around Rs 10,000-15,000 per rearing cycle earlier, she now earns Rs 20,000-25,000 (and even up to Rs 40,000) for a season with focused 30-35 days of work. Cocoon production rose from 650 kg in 2023 to 1,000 kg in 2024.