In Dhar block of Pathankot, Forest Department led by IFS officer Dharmveer Dairu has resurrected sericulture, reviving an age-old practice almost lost to the region. The project includes planting mulberry trees, establishing rearing houses, and training over 100 farmers to rear silkworms, enabling them to earn approximately ₹25,000 in just 30 days of work. 

Under this initiative, seedlings of mulberry were raised over forest land, and disease-free silkworm eggs (DFLs) supplied to the farmers. Rearing houses have been built, with technical training covering temperature, humidity control, and silkworm care.

The venture is more than income-generation: it bolsters forest conservation by giving farmers a stake in preserving forest areas. It also strengthens community bonds, especially among marginal farmers and women, who are benefiting directly. The project has gained approval under central schemes and is seen as a model for regenerating rural livelihoods while conserving ecology.