Eri Yarn Manufacturing Unit Inaugurated in Meghalaya: Boost for Local Silk Industry

Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated an Eri yarn manufacturing unit in Ri-Bhoi district. The facility, called Sai Lum, is expected to benefit 9,500 people, including cocoon farmers and weavers, by bridging the gap between cocoon production and yarn manufacturing and reducing dependence on middlemen.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated a new Eri yarn manufacturing unit in Ri-Bhoi district on Monday, aiming to uplift the local silk industry and benefit over 9,500 individuals. The unit, named Sai Lum, represents a significant investment in the region's silk value chain.

Set up at Bhoirymbong at a cost of Rs 1.20 crore with backing from PRIME Meghalaya, NECTAR, and local entrepreneur Wallambok Pyngrope, the facility is expected to bridge the gap between cocoon production and yarn manufacturing. This will enable farmers to procure stable prices and weavers to access affordable yarn locally.

Sai Lum, with a spinning capacity of 25 to 30 kg per day, will reduce middlemen involvement by buying cocoon directly from farmers and supplying yarn to weaving clusters. The unit's operations are poised to create direct employment and improve economic returns for local communities.