Demand for traditional Mysuru silk sarees made by the government-owned Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation Limited (KSIC) took center stage in the Assembly discussions. Legislators from various parties urged the state government to boost production and fortify the historic institution.
BJP MLA T. S. Srivatsa highlighted the substantial demand for Mysuru silk sarees produced by KSIC, a state-owned enterprise. He noted that customers often line up as early as 5 a.m. at factory outlets to secure tokens for purchasing the sarees.
Questioning the government’s production levels despite nationwide demand for Mysuru silk sarees, Srivatsa emphasized the necessity to expand the business to meet the market needs.
Minister for Sericulture and Animal Husbandry K. Venkatesh acknowledged the daily production of 300 to 350 silk sarees, attributing the high demand to the exceptional quality maintained by KSIC.
Efforts are underway to ramp up production, although ensuring the quality of raw materials remains a priority. Minister Venkatesh also mentioned the temporary halt of online sales to meet the surge in demand at physical outlets.
Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka criticized the treatment of workers at the production facility, citing low wages and alleged plans to shut down the unit despite significant profits.
Minister Venkatesh addressed concerns over land acquisition, assuring that the plan would be dropped to safeguard the interests of the institution and its workers.
Minister for Urban Development Byrathi Suresh echoed support for KSIC, underscoring the global renown of Mysuru silk sarees and advocating for increased funding to uphold the institution’s legacy.
