Eri Silk — Cocoon Rearing and Weaving in Assam

Eri silk (Samia ricini) is the "peace silk" of Assam — the moth is not killed during reeling, earning it "ahimsa silk" status. The silkworm feeds on castor leaves and is reared in bamboo frames in village homes. Cocoons are open at one end, allowing the moth to emerge naturally. Broken cocoons are spun into rough eri yarn on traditional spindles, and woven into thick, warm shawls, mekhelas, and lois. Eri fabric is naturally temperature-regulating and is ideal for hill climates. Assam's tribal districts — particularly Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao — are major eri production centres. Export demand from Japan (eri scarves) and EU (organic silk) is growing.