The delegation participated in the 11th BACSA International Conference – CULTUSERI 2025, an influential platform for sericulture cooperation across Europe and Asia. Delivering the Opening Address on behalf of ISC, Shri Sivakumar highlighted India’s centuries-old expertise in traditional silk knowledge and its evolving role in creative and cultural industries worldwide.
He also presented his technical paper titled “The Chronicles of Wild Silk”, underlining India’s scientific advancements in natural silk varieties and their growing demand in luxury and sustainable textile markets.
Adding to the knowledge exchange, Dr. S. Manthira Moorthy, Director (Tech), CSB, presented findings on Indo-Bulgarian collaboration that contributed to the development of a highly productive bivoltine silkworm hybrid suited for India’s climatic conditions. The research drew attention for its potential to boost domestic cocoon productivity and strengthen India’s silk value chain.
India’s 5-in-1 Silk Stole Garners Global Attention
One of the highlights of the visit was the presentation of CSB’s innovative “5-in-1 Silk Stole,” a premium product blending five Indian silks — Mulberry, Oak Tasar, Tropical Tasar, Muga, and Eri. Conceptualised under the leadership of the Member Secretary, the stole was showcased as a symbol of India’s diverse silk heritage and its capacity for product innovation.
Georgian stakeholders appreciated the stole’s unique craftsmanship and market potential, especially in luxury, tourism, and cultural retail segments. The product also helped elevate discussions on promoting high-value Indian silk items in international markets.
Strengthening Institutional & Trade Partnerships
The Indian delegation held extensive engagements with Georgian universities, sericulture laboratories, textile companies, apparel manufacturers, carpet traders, and the Georgian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI). These meetings explored opportunities for joint research, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building activities in sericulture and textile production.
Discussions with senior Georgian government officials further focused on enhancing bilateral market access, expanding trade in textiles, apparel, carpets, and specialised silk-based products, and building frameworks for industry-driven partnerships.
The interactions are expected to lay the groundwork for long-term institutional cooperation and new avenues for trade diversification between the two countries.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
- Strengthened India–Georgia cooperation in sericulture research, textile and apparel trade.
- Global recognition for India’s 5-in-1 Silk Stole as a potential flagship product.
- New trade opportunities identified in carpets and high-value textiles.
- Institutional pathways created for research collaboration and industry partnerships.
- India reaffirmed its leadership role through active participation in BACSA’s international platform.
The delegation’s visit signals a renewed push toward cross-border partnerships aimed at boosting India’s silk sector and expanding global market presence for Indian textiles. With growing demand for sustainable and naturally sourced fibres, both countries are expected to benefit from the shared expertise and enhanced trade engagement nurtured during this outreach.