Nagpur, April 5 -- Battling years of erratic weather, repeated crop failures, and poor soil fertility, farmers in Vidarbha are turning to sericulture as a sustainable and profitable alternative.

In a major boost to this shift, the Maharashtra government has launched a five-year sericulture development plan aimed at benefiting 10,000 farmers, with a special focus on women and tribal communities.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to fast-track fund allocation and ensure timely implementation of the schemes.

Under the plan, farmers will receive a 75 per cent subsidy on silkworm eggs and incentives ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 150 per kg for silk reeling.

The initiative also includes technical training, study tours, and...