Padma Doree and Eri Silk

News: Padma Doree was formally unveiled by NEHHDC under MDoNER, showcasing a cross-cultural textile initiative through a fashion show and exhibition.

About Padma Doree

• Padma Doree is a unique cross-cultural textile initiative that fuses Eri silk of Northeast India with Chanderi weaving of Madhya Pradesh.
• Launched by: It was launched by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER).
• Executing Agency: It is executed by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC).
• Objective: The initiative aims to promote a sustainable and integrated textile ecosystem and ensure economic empowerment of local artisans while linking different regions.
• Key Aspects:
  • Fusion of Traditions: It combines Eri (Ahimsa) silk from Northeast India with intricate Chanderi textile motifs from Madhya Pradesh to create a unique textile blend.
  • Sustainability and Innovation: It highlights ethical silk production and integrates traditional knowledge with modern design and innovation.
• Significance: It highlights the relevance of traditional crafts, indigenous knowledge systems, and sustainable luxury in contemporary markets.

About Eri Silk

Aspects	Description
About	Eri Silk, also known as “Peace Silk” or “Vegan Silk,” is a unique type of silk derived from the Eri silkworm (Samia ricini). Unlike other silk production processes, Eri Silk is made without harming the moth inside the cocoon
Produced by	It is predominantly produced in the North-Eastern states of India, particularly Assam. It is also found in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, and other regions.
Unique Characteristics	Eri Silk is considered the world’s only vegan silk because the moth is not killed during the extraction process. The moth naturally exits the cocoon, leaving it intact for silk production. The production of Eri Silk is environmentally friendly with a focus on compassion and sustainability. It is known for its softness, warmth, and durability. It has a distinct texture, often compared to wool, making it versatile for various garments and textiles. It is highly breathable and has excellent temperature-regulating properties, making it suitable for both warm and cool climates.
Cultural Significance	Traditional Craftsmanship: It holds deep cultural importance in Assam, where it is traditionally handwoven by skilled artisans. It is a part of the region’s rich textile heritage. Geographical Indication (GI) Status: It is a GI-tagged product of Assam, which means it is recognized for its authenticity and regional significance.
Contributions to Sustainable Fashion	Oeko-Tex Certification: It recently obtained the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification, which ensures that the textile is free from harmful substances and produced under environmentally friendly conditions. International Market Potential: The certification enhances its credibility on the global stage, paving the way for its expansion into international markets