Dear National Delegates,

Greetings from International Sericultural Commission, Bangalore, India.

Today is an important day in my professional life. On this Day, I have assumed the charge of Secretary General of International Sericultural Commission; the only inter-governmental organization engaged for the development of sericulture and silk industry across the globe.  I consider this as a great privilege and honour to take up the mandates of this reputed global body, the legacy of which dates back to 1870.

On this occasion, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my predecessors who had brilliantly contributed for evolving this organization as a rallying point on all matters related to silk industry.  I am thankful to innumerable persons from various countries and agencies, who have contributed significantly in evolving ISC as a credible agency for the global development of sericulture science and silk. My special thanks to the past Secretary Generals from India, who had established the ISC Office in India with a solid foundation by initiating a number of innovative activities, which are not only benefitting ISC Member countries but also other silk producing countries.  I am deeply obliged to all Member Countries of ISC for their active involvement and support in promoting sericulture across the globe.  I continue to seek your support to fulfil the mandates of ISC. 

There are challenging time ahead for the world silk industry. Apart from the inherent problems like rapid industrialization, urbanization, competition from manmade fabrics, etc., there is an urgent need to devise careful strategies to counter the ill effects of climate change and transform silk as a sustainable fibre. There are also few silver linings witnessing in the sector; like the greater awareness and demand for natural fibres in textiles and the unlimited scope for using silk in frontier areas. We are also in the process of developing global sustainable standards for silk. I am confident that under the platform of ISC, the issues concerning silk could be addressed head-on with the cooperation of all concerned.

I would also like to assure you all that the Govt. of India would continue to support ISC to replicate the successful model of sericulture practice developed in India as an effective tool for employment generation and poverty alleviation in developing countries. I am fortunate to have an incredibly committed co-workers in ISC HQs to take up any challenge with zeal and enthusiasm. On this occasion, I solicit your support and blessing for the development of global silk industry.