SERICUL TURE AND THE PROCESS OF CHANGE - Institute for ...

idea that is convincingly offered, is readily accepted. However, today's
extension staff has been taxed with so many impertinent tasks and target
fulfillment that they sometimes miss the actual focus. Generally, the
sericulturists do not like to show any hostility towards the extension
staff lest they lose any favours that might come through the department.
They also realise that they need the favour of the extension staff in
procuring layings, especially during the demand season. What is needed
most, however, is a change in the whole strategy, replacing the
sericulture-specific approach to a family-based and a holistic approach
(Gregory 1993). The extension staff should also learn to listen some
times to understand the traditional wisdom of the farmers, which many a
time proves to be right. Selective approach should be adopted towards
the resource-poor and low-performing groups.
Market Service: Another significant servlce provided by the
department is the provision of marketing facility. In some of the local
markets, the number of reelers is not in proportion to the quantity of
cocoons available in the area. This reduces the competition and the
subsequent price level, forcing the rearers to flee for some distant
markets in search of a competitive price. Without containing the risk
factors in sericulture and the price continuing to be unattractive,
sericulture has been facing the danger of oblivion in recent years. If
sericulture has to be successful in its accomplishment, there should be a
two-pronged strategy to meet the challenge. One is to make its returns
attractive in spite of its risk factors. The second is to combat and control
the risk factors through all possible ways and means, mainly through an
effective research strategy and the dissemination of the same to the field.
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