Assam’s Eri Silk Secures Oeko-Tex Standard Certification for Textile Safety

This certification, awarded by a German-based institution, ensures that textiles are free from harmful substances and are produced under environmentally friendly conditions

Assam’s Eri Silk, a symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage, has received the globally recognized Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification, marking a significant achievement for India’s textile industry. This certification, awarded by a German-based institution, ensures that textiles are free from harmful substances and are produced under environmentally friendly conditions. The announcement came after a day of India’s 78th Independence Day, signifying a proud moment for the region’s craftsmanship.

The Oeko-Tex certification reinforces Eri Silk’s status as a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Assam, boosting its authenticity and regional significance. With this recognition, Eri Silk is poised to make substantial inroads into the global export market, positioning itself as a leading eco-friendly fabric and strengthening North East India’s presence in the sustainable fashion industry.

Taking to social media platform X, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed pride stating, “This is proud moment for Assam as our fine Eri Silk receives prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its safe characteristics. Oeko-Tex certification Standard 100 is label for textiles tested for harmful substances. It sets benchmark for textile safety from yarn to finished product.”

Union Minister for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia, praised the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) for this accomplishment, calling it a significant victory for Assam’s heritage. “Eri Silk, the pride of Assam, has secured the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification. This GI-tagged, vegan silk is now set to shine globally and contribute to sustainable fashion,” Scindia said on social media platform X.

The achievement also highlights Assam’s commitment to sustainable textile practices, with traditional eri-rearing playing an increasingly important economic role in districts like Nalbari. Known for its cultural heritage, Nalbari has embraced sustainable livelihood options through eri-rearing, which supports economically disadvantaged communities, particularly women involved in self-help groups under the Rural Livelihood Mission.

Eri Silk, often celebrated as the world’s only vegan silk, stands out for its ethical production process, where silk moths are allowed to emerge naturally from their cocoons, preserving the silk fibres. This compassionate method resonates with growing global demands for sustainable and cruelty-free textiles, further elevating Eri Silk’s reputation on the international stage.

As Eri Silk enters the global textile market, the recognition serves as a testament to Assam’s rich heritage and its evolving role in sustainable fashion, benefiting local communities and elevating the region’s traditional craftsmanship on the world stage.

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