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| Think Tank |
This week we focus on a complete analysis of the
 Banking Industry
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New varieties by local firm to replace Chinese silk
R Ravichandran
HYDERABAD, SEPT 26: Imports of quality raw silk from China will be minimised in a span of six to eight months with the introduction of 20 new quality `races' (different varieties, shades) and the same will be curtailed in two years' time by introducing more number of quality races. The R&D unit in Ananthapur district, AP and Mysore Research Institute, Karnataka, have recently developed around 20 new quality races with natural colours, which are on par with imported varieties of Chinese silk. Another 12 new races are being developed.The new samples, which have been tested by farmers for higher standards, quality, prevention of disease, climatic condition adaptability, have been found very satisfactory. The samples data has been sent to Central Silk Board for the certification. The Board has already started trial verification. "We are expecting a formal clearance from the Board in six months' period. Once through the varieties will be commercialised," I Venkateswarulu, Director of Sericulture here. Chinais holding monopoly with over 400 varieties in its belt. Despite having 80 to 100 varieties, India is struggling with only 4 or 5 quality races, which in turn forced the EOUs to import Chinese quality silk. The imports skyrocketed to nearly 3000 tonnes in 1998 from 1395 tonnes in 1989.The official said that unless with new races India may not be in a position to compete with China as well global markets. Copyright © 1999 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
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