Tiken Kakati, an entrepreneur and farmer from Maicha Chapori in Assam's Dhemaji district, has successfully revived the traditional Muga silk industry, which is a vital part of Assam's cultural heritage. Despite the challenges of declining Muga yarn availability, his dedication has rejuvenated this craft and secured its future. His diversified ventures bring in an annual income of 20-25 lakhs INR, further solidifying his impact on the community and the industry.
Tiken’s journey into the world of Muga silk began with a clear vision: to cultivate Som trees, the primary food source for Muga silkworms, and to nurture these silkworms with the utmost care. Starting with a modest piece of land, Tiken planted Som trees and began rearing Muga silkworms. His dedication to the craft, coupled with his deep understanding of the silkworms’ needs, allowed him to produce high-quality Muga yarn. Today, Tiken’s Muga silk business earns him an impressive Rs 15 lakh annually, making him one of the most successful silk producers in the region.
Muga Silk Production: Expanding Landholdings & Operations
As his profits grew, Tiken gradually expanded his operations. He began purchasing more land to increase his production capacity. Today, he owns 20 bighas of land dedicated to Som trees. These trees are the lifeblood of his Muga silk production, providing the essential leaves that feed the silkworms. Over the years, Tiken has developed a large and thriving plantation where he produces around 20 kilograms of Muga yarn each year.
The process of producing Muga silk is labour-intensive and requires meticulous attention to detail. Tiken and his team of dedicated workers carefully oversee each stage of the process, from nurturing the silkworms on the Som trees to collecting the cocoons and transforming them into yarn. This hands-on approach ensures that the Muga silk produced by Tiken is of the highest quality, meeting the standards of the market.
Once the yarn is produced, Tiken uses four looms to weave it into traditional Assamese garments, including Muga riha, Muga mekhala, and Muga panjabi. These garments are not only beautiful but also hold deep cultural significance. The rich texture and natural golden hue of Muga silk make it highly sought after, and Tiken’s creations are no exception. Their dedication to preserving and modernizing the craft has earned them loyal customers and a reputation for excellence.
Diversifying into Farming & Livestock
While Muga silk production remains at the heart of Tiken’s operations, he has also diversified his activities to include other forms of farming. On his farm in Bardoloni Kamalpur, Tiken cultivates a variety of crops, including paddy and mustard. These crops provide an additional stream of income and contribute to his overall success. His farming practices are rooted in sustainability, and he employs traditional methods that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that the land remains fertile and productive.
In addition to crop cultivation, Tiken has ventured into fish farming and livestock rearing. He has three large ponds where he rears fish, and he also raises ducks, chickens, and pigs. These activities not only add to his income but also provide a steady source of food for his family and community. The combination of these diversified farming activities brings his total annual earnings to an impressive 20-25 lakhs INR, solidifying his status as one of Dhemaji district’s most successful entrepreneurs.
Tiken's success has also benefited his community by creating jobs for 25 local workers and supporting 8-10 families through Muga rearing. His commitment to fair wages and sustainable practices fosters loyalty among employees and empowers others in Muga silk production, depicting Assamese self-reliance.
Recognition and Awards
Tiken’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2014, he was recognized by the Deputy Commissioner of Dhemaji district for his environmental activism, particularly for his work in planting and conserving trees. His dedication to creating a green and sustainable environment has made him a respected figure in his community and beyond. His contributions to the agricultural sector were further recognized in 2019 when he was named the best pig farmer from Dhemaji district at the National Livestock Poultry Show in Guwahati.
More recently, Tiken was honored by the Assam government’s Sericulture Department, which named him the top and highest commercial Muga cocoon producer for the year 2022-23. This prestigious title not only acknowledges his success in Muga silk production but also highlights his role in preserving and promoting this important industry in Assam.
Tiken Kakati's journey from a small-scale farmer to a leader in Assam's Muga silk industry reflects the power of hard work, innovation, and staying true to one's roots. His success is a source of pride for Dhemaji district and Assam, showing that cultural heritage and modern business can coexist. Tiken's story inspires others, demonstrating that sustainable agriculture and traditional crafts can drive economic growth and strengthen communities.
