Constraints and climate change impacts on sericulture farmers in west Bengal: Challenges and mitigation strategies

Abstract:

Sericulture serves as a vital socio-economic catalyst in West Bengal, providing sustainable livelihoods for rural communities and maintaining the state’s status as a premier silk producer. However, the industry is increasingly compromised by climate-induced thermal shifts and erratic rainfall, which degrade mulberry quality and elevate silkworm mortality. Significant research gaps remain regarding micro-level sustainable adaptations and the socio-economic vulnerability of marginal farmers to these localized stressors. To address these challenges, a transition from traditional subsistence to a resilient, high-yield industry requires multidisciplinary interventions. This includes the deployment of climate-resilient mulberry varieties and thermo-tolerant bivoltine hybrids, alongside technological shifts such as microclimate-controlled rearing houses and AI-driven pest forecasting. By integrating sustainable agronomic practices with robust policy-backed insurance frameworks, West Bengal can mitigate environmental instability, ensuring the long-term viability of its sericulture sector and its continued contribution to the global silk economy.