Nagpur: Amid scorching summer temperatures ranging between 42°C and 45°C, farmers in Nagpur district have discovered a profitable alternative to traditional crops. Defying the belief that Vidarbha’s climate is unsuitable for silk farming, several progressive farmers have turned to sericulture (silk farming) and are earning over ₹1 lakh per month, even in peak summer.

Farmers Rewrite the Rules of Farming in Vidarbha

The harsh summer conditions of Vidarbha have long been considered a barrier to agricultural productivity. However, innovative farmers in Nagpur district have transformed this challenge into an opportunity through sericulture.

In Devli Gujar village of Nagpur Rural taluka, farmer Shivaji Jhode earned an impressive ₹1,60,576 in April, selling silk cocoons at a rate of ₹691 per kg.

Similarly:

• Shailesh Wasnik from Sakrala village in Parsheoni taluka earned ₹1,02,690
• Mangesh Behniya from Khangao in Katol taluka earned ₹88,500
• Giridhar Shinde from Kolar village earned ₹84,730 at ₹670 per kg
• Dinesh Lokhande from Gumgaon in Hingna taluka earned ₹77,135 at ₹680 per kg

Why Sericulture is Emerging as a Profitable Alternative

Unlike traditional crops that generate income only twice a year, sericulture provides at least four assured income cycles annually. In April alone, farmers received a record price of up to ₹691 per kg for silk cocoons.

Key advantages of sericulture include:

• Long-term returns: Mulberry plantations yield income for 10–12 years after a single planting
• High market demand: Silk cocoons have consistent demand, ensuring easy sales
• Climate adaptability: Modern rearing houses enable quality production even in extreme heat

For many farmers, sericulture has opened a path to earn lakhs annually without leaving their villages, offering a viable alternative to low-paying urban jobs.

Call to Shift from Traditional Crops

Under the guidance of District Sericulture Development Officer Swapnil Tayde, Nagpur district is steadily moving towards becoming a “Sericulture Hub.”

Tayde emphasized that with unpredictable weather patterns and rising unemployment, sericulture presents a sustainable and profitable solution. He urged farmers to move beyond traditional crop cycles and adopt silk farming for better income stability.