Muga Silk & Eri Silk

Why in News?

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a rare handwoven Muga silk stole to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his diplomatic visit. The gesture highlighted the rich silk heritage of Northeast India, especially Assam and Meghalaya. 

What is Muga Silk?

Muga silk is a premium variety of silk famous for its natural golden sheen, durability, and glossy texture. It is unique to Assam and possesses a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

• Muga silk is produced from the semi-domesticated silkworm Antheraea assamensis.
• The silkworms feed mainly on Som and Soalu plant leaves.
• It is known for its natural golden-yellow colour and long-lasting quality.
• Assam contributes nearly 95% of India’s total Muga silk production.
• Major production centres include; Sualkuchi, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, and Jorhat.

• Muga silk is considered the pride of Assam and an integral part of Assamese culture and tradition.
• The industry provides livelihood opportunities, especially for women and economically weaker sections involved in:
  • Silkworm rearing,
  • Spinning, and
  • Weaving.

What is Eri Silk?

Eri silk is another important silk variety from Northeast India, known for its warmth, softness, durability, and ethical production process. 

• Eri silk is produced from the Eri silkworm, locally called “Niang Ryndia” in Khasi.
• Eri Silk is also known as Ahimsa Silk because the silk is extracted without killing the silkworm pupae.

• It is therefore considered eco-friendly and cruelty-free.
• Meghalaya’s traditional handwoven Eri silk fabric, called Ryndia, has received a GI tag.
• Eri silk is deeply associated with the culture and traditional attire of the northeastern states.

Kota Doria and Eri Silk Fusion

Eri silk is now being blended with Kota Doria, a GI-tagged fabric from Rajasthan known for:

• Lightweight texture,
• Breathability, and
• Distinctive check patterns.

This fusion aims to create a fabric combining traditional heritage with modern fashion appeal.