THEBUSINESSBTES BUREAU

BONGAIGAON, FEBRUARY 26, 2026

NTPC Bongaigaon has reinforced its commitment to community-centric development by supporting the Bodoland Sericulture Mission through the inauguration of a Sales-cum-Display Counter at Mothambil Forest Village, near Raimona National Park. The initiative, implemented under NTPC’s CSR programme, aims to strengthen sustainable livelihoods by promoting Eri silk rearing and handloom weaving among rural women.

Launched in 2023 by the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) Government, the Bodoland Sericulture Mission seeks to transform the traditional silk sector into a high-income, sustainable livelihood ecosystem with a strong focus on Eri silk. The newly inaugurated counter forms part of the project titled “Promotion of Eri Silk and Handloom Village in Raimona National Park,” formally opened on 25 February 2026.

The programme was graced by Derhasat Basumatary, Executive Member (Health & Family Welfare), BTR Government, in the presence of Bhanulata Mushahary, Director of Sericulture, BTC, Ranjit Kumar Gogoi, Asst. Director, BTC, Amit Kumar Asthana, Addl. General Manager (HR), NTPC Bongaigaon,  A.K. Chakravorty, former Director of Sericulture, BTR, Roshan Dungdung, DGM (HR), Smriti Das, Executive (CSR) and other officials from NTPC and BTC.

Implemented by the BTC Government in collaboration with the Department of Sericulture and supported by NTPC Bongaigaon, the project involves a total outlay of ₹30 lakh. Mothambil Forest Village has been identified as a model site to link eco-tourism with livelihood generation through Eri silk production and weaving. The initiative will directly benefit around 125 women — comprising 89 rearers and 36 weavers — while extending indirect support to hundreds of villagers in the surrounding areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Derhasat Basumatary stated that the Bodoland Sericulture Mission has been envisioned as a key driver for rural livelihood enhancement in the region, with special emphasis on women-led economic activities. He noted that the initiative at Mothambil Forest Village represents a meaningful convergence of biodiversity conservation, eco-tourism and the traditional silk heritage of the Bodo community. He further conveyed that the creation of forward market linkages through the Sales-cum-Display Counter donated by NTPC Bongaigaon will enable artisans to secure better value for their products while encouraging youth and women to engage in sustainable livelihood practices rooted in local resources and skills.

Amit Kumar Asthana shared that NTPC Bongaigaon remains committed to supporting community-centric development initiatives in the Bodoland Territorial Region through its CSR programmes, with focus on livelihood generation, skill development and women empowerment. He highlighted that the Eri Silk and Handloom Village initiative reflects NTPC’s approach of linking economic opportunities with local culture and environmental sustainability. The project is expected to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship, enhance income opportunities for women beneficiaries and contribute to preserving the rich handloom traditions of the region while creating a unique eco-tourism experience around Raimona National Park, Asthana added.

Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹5.90 lakh, the Sales-cum-Display Counter has been designed in traditional Assam-type architecture and equipped with dedicated display spaces for locally produced Eri silk and handloom products. The facility will be managed by women beneficiaries, enabling direct market access and improved value realisation.

The broader intervention includes Kesseru plantations for silkworm rearing, construction of rearing houses, provision of spinning machines, supply of improved looms and quality Eri yarn, along with the creation of this dedicated marketing platform.

By integrating the natural heritage of Raimona National Park with the cultural legacy of the Bodo community, the project offers visitors an opportunity to experience traditional silk rearing and weaving alongside wildlife tourism. The initiative is expected to strengthen market linkages, promote women’s economic empowerment, preserve traditional crafts and advance sustainable livelihoods across the Bodoland Territorial Region.