Author(s): Susikaran S, Karthick Mani Bharathi B, Rubeesh Kumar B, Kiruthika C, Bhuvana S, Mithila Sri M, Ramya Harika K, Ishita Garai, Ashwin Niranjan M and M Sabarish

Abstract: Chawki rearing, the initial stage of silkworm rearing in sericulture plays a crucial role in determining the success and productivity of the silk industry. This study explores the economic feasibility of chawki rearing as a specialized practice thereby examining its financial viability for sericulture farmers. Through cost-benefit analysis, the research evaluates the profitability of chawki rearing by comparing the inputs such as labour, infrastructure and feed costs with the outputs, primarily high-quality silkworm eggs (chawki worms) ready for further rearing stages. The study also considers external factors influencing profitability thereby including market fluctuations in silk prices, government subsidies and technological innovations that can enhance productivity. A key focus is on the economies of scale achievable in chawki rearing particularly how large-scale operations can reduce per-unit costs thus making the practice more financially sustainable. Additionally, the research examines the environmental conditions essential for optimal chawki rearing as well as the potential challenges such as disease management and high mortality rates that can affect economic outcomes. The findings suggest that while chawki rearing requires significant initial investment in terms of infrastructure and expertise, it presents an economically feasible opportunity for the chawki growers when managed efficiently. The study concludes with recommendations for improving economic returns through training programs, better disease control measures and more robust financial support systems. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the sericulture value chain and highlights chawki rearing as a critical but often underexplored area to achieve profitability.

Pages: 144-148 | Views: 181 | Downloads: 3

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