The state government has planned to set up a silk hub in Serampore. At an administrative meeting in Tarakeswar, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the establishment of the hub in Hooghly district to create a major centre for silk export and skill development for craftsmen. The initiative is expected to open new horizons for traditional silk products and bring fresh opportunities to silk artisans.
Eleven acres of low-lying agricultural land had been identified for the project a year ago; however, work was delayed due to pending compensation settlements.
Local councillor and chairman-in-council, Pintu Nag, said that none of the local farmers would be deprived of their compensation. “We have reached the final settlement with the farmers. The work for setting up the silk hub has now begun. Levelling of the low land has started, and construction of the boundary wall is in progress,” he said.
The silk cloth printing units currently scattered across Serampore, Seoraphuli and Baidyabati will be brought under one roof. Nearly 125 such cottage-scale silk industries will be assembled within the hub.
The hub is expected to attract skilled craftsmen from across Bengal and enable the sharing of skills and ideas, including marketing strategies. It will provide a steady source of income for many families and help preserve their traditional craftsmanship.