Indigenous Adaptive Techniques for Effective Ericulture in Kokrajhar District, BTR, Assam, India

The success of ericulture, a vital sericulture practice in North-East India, hinges on precise rearing techniques and strategic management. The current study in Kokrajhar district, Assam, reveals that while ericulture is a dominant practice among local farmers (64.06%), they face significant challenges, including scarcity of food plants, diseases, pest infestations, and climate fluctuations. Despite the traditional reliance on Ricinus communis (Castor) as a primary food plant, this research identifies potential new host plants, such as Ailanthus excels (14.40%), Ficus racemosa (44.92%), and Oroxylum indicum (23.12%), which could enhance sustainability and resilience in ericulture. However, modern biocontrol methods, including bio-fumigation and bio-disinfection, are adopted as measures for different challenges like microbial and pest infestation. These innovations are tactically adopted and are still limited, underscoring the need for increased awareness and training among seri rearers. By highlighting these challenges and opportunities, our study provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and farmers seeking to improve productivity, quality, and sustainability in ericulture, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the sericulture industry.