Lucknow: Silk Expo–2026 was inaugurated at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, Lucknow, marking a significant step towards strengthening the silk industry in Uttar Pradesh. The expo was formally opened by the state’s Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Silk Industry, Rakesh Sachan, in the presence of Backward Classes Welfare Minister Narendra Kashyap and other dignitaries.
Organised with the objective of promoting silk production, trade and exports, the expo is expected to provide a major boost to silk producers, weavers and entrepreneurs across the state. On the occasion, the department released its annual magazine ‘Resham Mitra–2025’ and honoured 16 silk workers, producers, weavers and entrepreneurs with the prestigious Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Resham Ratna Award for their outstanding contribution to the sector.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Rakesh Sachan said that under the Chief Minister Silk Development Scheme, the state government aims to benefit around 13,500 producers over the next ten years. He informed that so far 1,630 beneficiaries have received grant assistance worth ₹32.49 crore, leading to a significant increase in silk production. He added that mulberry plantation is underway on 9,000 acres, with a target of generating an additional 360 metric tonnes of silk.
Sachan highlighted that the silk industry is providing regular employment opportunities to producers and weavers, while the establishment of multi-reeling units has strengthened processing infrastructure. He also emphasised the role of the Resham Mitra portal, which ensures online applications, monitoring and transparent implementation of schemes.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Narendra Kashyap said that with the support of the “double-engine government,” Uttar Pradesh has witnessed unprecedented growth in the silk sector. He noted that silk production in the state has increased from 27 metric tonnes to around 450–500 metric tonnes, reinforcing the vision of a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh. He added that the sector is creating new income and employment opportunities, especially for people from poor and backward communities.
The Silk Expo is being held at Mercury Hall, Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, and will continue till 6 February 2026. Weavers and traders from across the country are showcasing a wide range of handwoven silk products, including sarees, dupattas and other textiles. The event is expected to give Uttar Pradesh’s silk industry a strong national platform and prove to be a milestone in the state’s journey towards becoming a major centre for silk production and exports.
