Field-level constraints and information sources in sericulture: A study from Karnataka

Abstract

Sericulture is a vital agro-based industry that provides livelihood to a large number of rural households, especially in Karnataka. The study was conducted to identify the major constraints faced by farmers in mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing, as well as to assess the sources of information they rely on for sericulture practices. Data were collected from 30 randomly selected farmers across five villages in Tumakuru and Chikkaballapura districts using structured interviews and questionnaires. The Garret Ranking Technique was employed to prioritize the constraints based on farmers’ perceptions. Results revealed that pest and disease incidence were the most significant challenges in both mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing. In terms of information sources, farmers primarily depended on friends and family, followed by the Department of Sericulture and mass media. The findings emphasize the need for strengthening extension services, promoting cost-effective rearing infrastructure and ensuring timely access to technical guidance to improve sericulture sustainability and farmer profitability.