Powered Eri Silk Initiative in Meghalaya

by 

Riya Vazirani Laheja

Eri silk has long been a cornerstone of Meghalaya’s textile heritage, providing livelihoods to thousands while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Despite its potential, traditional silk production methods have dominated the sector, which are tedious and manual and limit growth of production and scalability, and clean energy adoption has been limited to about 55% of the value chain. Currently, Eri silk contributes roughly 6.7% to the State GDP and supports around 1.59 lakh jobs across the entire value chain. The goal is ambitious but achievable: to increase Eri silk’s contribution to the State GDP to 20% through enhanced production and value addition, double employment across the value chain to 3.4 lakh jobs, and achieve 100% clean energy adoption in silk production and processing.

To bring this vision to life, a combination of innovative technology and sustainable practices has been introduced. 50 women weavers have been empowered with advanced Eri silk spinning technology, and a lease-to-own model ensures sustainability, where revenue recovered within 24 months supports another 50 beneficiaries. Clean energy adoption has been a key focus, making solar-powered silk processing and equipment accessible and affordable, allowing rural artisans to produce Eri silk in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

The program has already demonstrated significant results. It has strengthened the local economy by supporting self-sustaining rural micro-entrepreneurs and made Eri silk weaving more sustainable and long-lasting, reducing dependence on traditional, energy-intensive methods. Customized Energy Solutions (CES) Foundation, a WHEELS’ partner, training and solar-powered mechanization have enabled a four-fold increase in production and better quality for dozens of artisans.

Building on this momentum, WHEELS and CES Foundation continue to support rural communities. CES portfolio of 90+ innovations showcases innovative DRE-powered machinery, including solar sewing machines, solar-powered silk reeling machines, and other livelihood solutions. Rural communities are trained to use and maintain productive equipment, empowering them to adopt transformative technologies. Through ongoing programs, beneficiaries are equipped to manage and sustain these technologies, ensuring long-term impact and self-reliance.

By combining technology, clean energy, and skill development, Eri silk production in Meghalaya is undergoing a transformation. Beyond preserving cultural heritage, these initiatives are driving economic growth, empowering women and artisans, and creating a sustainable future for one of India’s most cherished textiles. With continued support and expansion, Meghalaya could become a global leader in sustainable silk production, benefiting thousands of families while protecting the environment.

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Riya Vazirani Laheja is a student at Ridge High School. She loves writing, reading, STEM, and playing soccer. She is very passionate about her studies, helping people, and working with kids. She is a hardworking and dedicated volunteer and has leadership experience in increasing awareness regarding South Asian Mental Health and teaching STEM topics to younger children. She also loves to try new things and visit new places whenever she gets the chance.