From Our Correspondent
NONGPOH, May 11: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday inaugurated the ‘Sai Lum Eri Silk Manufacturing Unit’ at Lumdaitkhla, Bhoirymbong, marking the launch of Meghalaya’s first dedicated facility for Eri silk yarn production.
Supported by PRIME Meghalaya, the unit is designed to strengthen the state’s textile sector, empower local entrepreneurs, and preserve traditional knowledge systems.
Speaking at the inauguration, the chief minister highlighted the government’s focus on fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. He noted that the absence of an organised market previously made it difficult for Eri silk farmers to sell cocoons.
“Sai Lum has filled a vacuum in the industry,” the Chief Minister said. “With this facility, Eri farmers can now sell cocoons within the state at fair prices, while weavers can purchase yarn at affordable rates. After seeing the dedication shown to this business and the community, I am motivated to provide even further support.”
The manufacturing unit was founded by local entrepreneur Wallambok Pyngrope and received Rs 50 lakh in interest-free support from the PRIME program. The facility currently spins 20 kg of yarn per day, providing direct employment to 15 locals and impacting the livelihoods of more than 2,000 weavers.
During the event, the chief minister handed over an additional cheque of Rs 35 lakh to Pyngrope to further scale operations.
Executive Director of the Meghalaya Basin Management Authority (MBMA), Saloni Verma, described the unit as a result of collaboration across departments. She praised Pyngrope for building a venture that provides “dignified and sustainable livelihoods” for the people of Ri-Bhoi.
Meghalaya’s indigenous “Ryndia” (Eri silk) has gained national recognition for its eco-friendly and cruelty-free production process. In April 2025, Ryndia received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, and the industry was recently lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a June 2025 episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat.’
Founder Wallambok Pyngrope noted that Meghalaya is the second-largest producer of Eri cocoons in India, producing nearly 500 metric tonnes annually. In Ri-Bhoi alone, 7,200 farmers produce approximately 60 metric tonnes of cocoons, with 1,000 active weavers requiring over 30 metric tonnes of yarn each year.
The establishment of the Sai Lum unit aligns with the state government’s broader strategy to revive rural industries and combine traditional craftsmanship with market-driven growth.
