Srinagar: The Spring Silk Cocoon Auction Market for Kashmir commenced at the Sericulture Complex in Srinagar on Wednesday, bringing together cocoon growers and buyers from within and outside Jammu and Kashmir.
The auction market was inaugurated by Director Sericulture Ajaz Ahmad Bhat in the presence of departmental officers, cocoon growers and traders.
According to officials, the auction has been organised to ensure fair prices for cocoon growers through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the sericulture sector and improving returns for silkworm rearers.
Speaking on the occasion, Bhat said the department is working to provide better marketing facilities to cocoon growers and expand infrastructure for local silk production. He said efforts are also being made to establish additional Silkworm Reeling Units across Jammu and Kashmir.
He added that increasing local consumption of cocoon produce would help strengthen the silk industry and improve earnings for farmers.
Officials said arrangements, including space allocation, weighing facilities and quality assessment mechanisms, have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the auction.
Growers and buyers participated in the bidding process, with traders noting improvements in the quality and quantity of cocoons available at the market compared to previous years.
The department expects the auction market to facilitate direct interaction between growers and buyers, promote transparent price discovery and contribute to higher incomes for cocoon producers.