On the 78th Independence Day of India, the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), successfully obtained the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk directly from Germany. This notable achievement enhances the recognition of Eri Silk as a globally acknowledged and sustainable textile.
What is Eri Silk?
Eri Silk is distinguished as the world’s only vegan silk. Unlike traditional silk production where the moth inside the cocoon is killed, Eri Silk production allows the moth to naturally exit the cocoon, leaving it intact for use. This process is both ethical and environmentally friendly, making Eri Silk a symbol of compassion and sustainability in the textile industry.
Oeko-Tex Certification
The Oeko-Tex certification is a rigorous standard that ensures textiles are free from harmful substances and produced in environmentally friendly conditions. This certification is a significant endorsement for Eri Silk, affirming its status as a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Assam and highlighting its authenticity and regional importance.
Impact on Global Market
This certification represents a crucial step towards enhancing Eri Silk’s presence in the global export market. It opens new opportunities for expanding its reach and establishing a strong international presence. The recognition underscores NEHHDC’s commitment to promoting and preserving Assam’s rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainable practices.
Future Prospects
The achievement of this milestone positions Eri Silk as a leading eco-friendly fabric in the international market. It showcases the region’s potential to contribute significantly to the global textile industry.
Official Recognition
Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia, extended his congratulations to the NEHHDC team for their remarkable accomplishment.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. On which occasion did NEHHDC receive the Oeko-Tex certification for Eri Silk?
a) India’s 77th Independence Day
b) India’s 78th Independence Day
c) India’s 79th Independence Day
d) India’s Republic Day
Answer: b) India’s 78th Independence Day
2. What makes Eri Silk unique compared to other silks?
a) It is produced using synthetic fibers
b) The moth inside the cocoon is killed during production
c) The moth naturally exits the cocoon, leaving it intact
d) It is dyed using chemical colors
Answer: c) The moth naturally exits the cocoon, leaving it intact
3. What does the Oeko-Tex certification ensure?
a) Textiles are produced using synthetic dyes
b) Textiles are free from harmful substances and produced in environmentally friendly conditions
c) Textiles are manufactured in high-speed factories
d) Textiles have no geographical indications
Answer: b) Textiles are free from harmful substances and produced in environmentally friendly conditions
4. What is the significance of Eri Silk’s Geographical Indication (GI) status?
a) It indicates the silk is produced in Europe
b) It highlights the silk’s authenticity and regional importance
c) It shows the silk is synthetic
d) It implies the silk is made from animal products
Answer: b) It highlights the silk’s authenticity and regional importance
5. Who congratulated the NEHHDC team on their achievement?
a) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
b) Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia
c) Chief Minister of Assam
d) President of India
Answer: b) Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia