(FREE) UPSC Current Affairs 2024 PDF

(THE GIST OF PIB) Eri Silk

(AUGUST-2024)

Eri Silk

Recently, the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Govt. of India, has successfully obtained the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk.

About Eri Silk:

It is renowned as the world’s only vegan silk, where, unlike other silks, the moth inside the cocoon is not killed. Instead, the moth naturally exits the cocoon, leaving it behind for us to use.
This method, which does not involve killing the moth, makes Eri silk a symbol of compassion and sustainability within the textile industry.
It is the product of the domesticated silkworm, Philosamia ricini that feeds mainly on castor leaves.
In India, this culture is practiced mainly in the north-eastern states and Assam. It is also found in Bihar, West Bengal and Orissa.
It is a Geographical Indication (GI) tagged product from Assam.

Key facts about Oeko-Tex certification

It involves a rigorous standard that ensures textiles are tested for harmful substances and produced in environment friendly conditions, is a significant endorsement for Eri Silk.
Significance: This achievement further cements the silk's status as a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Assam, highlighting its authenticity and regional importance.
This certification marks a pivotal step in bringing Eri Silk closer to penetrating the global export market, expanding its reach, and establishing a strong international presence.