The Central Silk Board Act, 1948
The Central Silk Board Act, 1948
Background and Purpose
India has been historically a major player in sericulture (silk production), which is an important cottage industry supporting rural livelihoods. To promote the development of sericulture and silk industry, the Government of India enacted The Central Silk Board Act, 1948.
The Act establishes the Central Silk Board to oversee, promote, and develop the silk industry in India, focusing on the production of quality silk, scientific research, and marketing support.
Objectives of the Act
To promote and develop the silk industry in India.
To coordinate research and training related to sericulture.
To improve the production and quality of silk.
To organize and regulate the supply chain of silk products.
To support marketing and export of silk.
To help improve the socio-economic conditions of silk producers.
Key Provisions of the Act
Establishment of the Central Silk Board (CSB)
The Act formally establishes the Central Silk Board, which is responsible for the development and promotion of the silk industry. The board acts as an advisory and regulatory authority.
Functions of the Board
The Board’s functions include:
Promoting scientific research and training in sericulture.
Improving silk production techniques.
Providing financial and technical assistance to sericulture farmers.
Coordinating between state sericulture departments and private stakeholders.
Controlling the quality of silk produced and marketed.
Promoting exports of silk and silk products.
Composition of the Board
The Board consists of members from central and state governments, silk industry experts, and representatives from various sectors involved in sericulture.
Financial Provisions
The Board receives funding from the central government and other sources. It can provide loans and grants to silk growers, manufacturers, and organizations.
Powers to Make Rules
The Board can frame rules regarding the regulation of the silk industry, research, quality control, and financial assistance.
Promotion of Sericulture Research Institutes
The Act also promotes the setting up of research institutes and training centers to improve sericulture technology and techniques.
Important Sections to Note
Section 3: Constitution of the Central Silk Board.
Section 5: Powers and functions of the Board.
Section 8: Financial powers and funds of the Board.
Section 10: Power of the Board to make rules.
Section 12: Appointment of committees and experts.
Case Law Related to The Central Silk Board Act, 1948
While there are not many landmark cases specifically centered on the Central Silk Board Act, some cases have dealt with related administrative and regulatory issues under the Act:
1. Central Silk Board vs. State of Karnataka (1970)
Facts: A dispute arose regarding the jurisdiction and regulatory powers of the Central Silk Board vis-à-vis the State Government in sericulture matters.
Judgment: The court upheld the central role of the Silk Board in coordinating national sericulture policy but recognized the states' rights in local implementation. The decision emphasized cooperative federalism and the Board’s advisory and promotional role rather than direct control over states.
2. Silk Producers Welfare Association vs. Union of India (1985)
Facts: The association challenged the allocation of funds and the manner of disbursement by the Central Silk Board.
Judgment: The court held that the Board’s discretion in fund allocation must be exercised fairly and in accordance with its statutory mandate to promote sericulture. Transparency and adherence to rules were mandated.
3. Sundaram Silk Mills vs. Central Silk Board (1990)
Facts: This case involved a dispute about quality certification and control measures implemented by the Central Silk Board.
Judgment: The court supported the Board's powers to enforce quality control to protect consumer interests and maintain the reputation of Indian silk in both domestic and international markets.
Summary
The Central Silk Board Act, 1948 was enacted to promote and regulate the sericulture and silk industry in India.
It establishes the Central Silk Board to oversee research, production, quality control, and marketing.
The Board functions as an advisory, regulatory, and promotional body.
The Act facilitates coordination between the central government, states, and the silk industry.
Courts have recognized the Board’s role in balancing central coordination with state-level implementation and upholding quality and financial regulations.
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