Document Type : Original Research
Authors
1
Department of Agricultural Management, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran
2
Department of Agricultural Management, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran.
3
Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center, Guilan, Iran
10.22048/rdsj.2025.408377.2122
Abstract
Sericulture, an agricultural activity that generates employment and empowers villagers, plays a pivotal role in Guilan province, renowned as a prominent innovation hub in the country. However, the farming sector in the country has faced stagnation in recent years due to various obstacles and challenges. Consequently, aquaculture and tea-making activities have been relegated to secondary roles. To gain insights into the factors influencing the sericulture industry in Guilan province, a three-stage Delphi research study was conducted in 2022, focusing on silkworm producers (Noghandaran), factory owners, and experts. Through snowball sampling, 17 individuals were selected as research participants. The results revealed that experts agreed on 28 promoting factors and 11 inhibiting factors, with a significance level of 0.01. According to 94.11% of the experts, the primary factors hindering the development of the sericulture industry in Guilan province were the aging of mulberry trees, the outdated structure of silk production facilities, and the lack of credit opportunities in the field of education. Additionally, the results indicated that the renovation and revitalization of mulberry trees and the empowerment of silkworm breeders (Noghandaran) through education were identified as the most significant driving factors, with 100% agreement from the experts. Based on these findings, it is crucial to consider specific measures such as purchasing suitable silkworm breeders' cocoons, providing low-interest bank facilities for the reconstruction and revival of mulberry trees and silk production facilities, and organizing effective practical classes. These actions will contribute to promoting and enhancing the sericulture industry in Guilan province.
Keywords
Subjects