Shillong,  March 25: In the serene landscapes of Meghalaya, a quiet revolution is unfolding in the traditional art of eri silk spinning. Thanks to the introduction of solar-powered eri spinning machines under the Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) initiative, the lives of women artisans are being transformed.

This intervention, which began in 2019 in the Jirang block, has gradually expanded across the Ri-Bhoi district, currently supporting 130 women. With the establishment of three solar-powered spinning centers, the initiative is not only preserving Meghalaya’s rich heritage of eri silk but also empowering women by reducing drudgery, increasing incomes, and providing access to training and financial resources.

Eri is a multivoltine silk spun from open-ended cocoons, unlike other varieties of silk. Eri silk is the product of the domesticated silkworm, Philosamia ricini that feeds mainly on castor leaves. Eri silk is known as peace silk or Ahimsa silk because it is a non-violent silk that doesn’t require killing the moth to extract the fibre.

The epicentre of Eri silk in Meghalaya is Ri-Bhoi district, home to Umden-Diwon, Meghalaya’s first Eri silk village. While regions in the Jaintia Hills, such as Khyrwang and Nongtung, also contribute to production, vast opportunities remain unexplored.

The project is being implemented by MOSONIE Socio Economic Foundation( the tribal word mosonie means common wealth) in collaboration with  SELCO Foundation.

Previously, women relied on the age-old takli spinning method, a slow and labor-intensive process. It took them nearly 1.5 months to spin just one kilogram of yarn, severely limiting their productivity and income. The earnings from this method barely reached Rs 2,500–3,000 per month, making it difficult for the artisans to sustain their livelihood.

With the introduction of solar eri spinning machines, productivity has seen a remarkable boost. Now, women can spin up to three kilograms of yarn per month, and skilled artisans can achieve up to four to six kilograms. As a result, their monthly income has surged to Rs 10,000—a three to four-fold increase from their previous earnings.

The solar-powered eri silk yarn spinners are of different wattage that could enable spinning for 5–8 hours. In addition to the solar panel, the unit has a battery and an LED bulb.

“As the district’s power supply is erratic, solar eri spinning machines have been a great help” an official from MOSONIE Socio Economic Foundation said.

Beyond financial gains, the initiative has imparted hands-on training to local artisans, equipping them with modern skills while retaining the traditional essence of eri silk craftsmanship. Three women have been empowered as master craftsmen, further strengthening the community’s expertise and sustainability in eri silk production.

“In five years, we aim to implement a district-wide blanketing program in Ri-Bhoi. The organization will also work to improve the rearing houses and increase cocoon production” the official said.

Eri silk contributes over 90% of the Northeast’s total silk output, with Meghalaya accounting for 15.6%

Officials say the solar eri spinning initiative is more than just a technological upgrade; it is a beacon of empowerment. By reducing the physical strain of manual spinning, increasing financial independence, and fostering skill development, this initiative has paved the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for women artisans in Meghalaya.

With continued expansion and support, solar-powered eri spinning has the potential to redefine traditional silk reeling in the region, ensuring that this timeless craft not only survives but thrives in the years to come.

Read: NTA shifts CUET exam centres for Meghalaya students’ from Guwahati to Shillong

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