As part of the initiative, a Sales-cum-Display Counter under the project “Promotion of Eri Silk and Handloom Village in Raimona National Park” was formally inaugurated at Mothambil Forest Village, located about 2 km from Raimona National Park, on February 25, 2026.

The programme was attended by Shri Derhasat Basumatary, Executive Member (Health & Family Welfare), BTR Government, along with Smt. Bhanulata Mushahary, Director of Sericulture, BTC; Shri Ranjit Kumar Gogoi, Assistant Director, BTC; Shri Amit Kumar Asthana, Additional General Manager (HR), NTPC Bongaigaon; Shri A.K. Chakravorty, Former Director of Sericulture, BTR; Shri Roshan Dungdung, DGM (HR); Ms. Smriti Das, Executive (CSR); and other officials from NTPC and BTC.

Promoting Sustainable Rural Livelihoods

The project, implemented by the BTC Government in collaboration with the Department of Sericulture and supported through NTPC Bongaigaon’s CSR funding, involves a total investment of ₹30 lakh. Mothambil Forest Village has been identified as a model site to promote eco-tourism-linked livelihood development through Eri silk rearing and handloom weaving.

The initiative directly benefits around 125 women beneficiaries — including 89 silkworm rearers and 36 weavers — while indirectly supporting more than 779 beneficiaries and over 1,700 villagers across nearby areas.

Speaking at the event, Derhasat Basumatary described the Bodoland Sericulture Mission, launched in 2023, as a major driver of rural livelihood enhancement with a strong focus on women-led economic activities. He highlighted that the initiative represents a convergence of biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism, and the traditional silk heritage of the Bodo community.

Strengthening Market Linkages

The newly inaugurated Sales-cum-Display Counter, constructed at an estimated cost of ₹5.90 lakh, has been designed as a traditional Assam-type structure featuring dedicated display arrangements for locally produced Eri silk and handloom products. The facility will be managed by village women beneficiaries, enabling direct market access and improved value realisation.

Amit Kumar Asthana stated that NTPC Bongaigaon remains committed to inclusive development in the Bodoland Territorial Region through CSR programmes focused on livelihood generation, skill development, and women empowerment. He noted that the initiative integrates economic opportunities with local culture and environmental sustainability.

Integrated Eco-Tourism and Cultural Preservation

The broader project includes establishment of Kesseru plantations for Eri silkworm rearing, construction of rearing houses, provision of spinning machines, supply of improved certified looms with accessories, distribution of quality Eri yarn, and creation of a dedicated sales platform.

By linking the natural heritage of Raimona National Park with traditional weaving practices, the initiative aims to create an eco-tourism ecosystem where visitors can witness silk rearing, spinning, and weaving while purchasing authentic handloom products directly from artisans.

The project is expected to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship, enhance women’s incomes, preserve traditional crafts, and promote sustainable livelihood development across the Bodoland Territorial Region.

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