Drought hits mulberry yield in Karnataka by about 50%
Severe drought in Karnataka's silk-producing region has cut mulberry harvests by roughly half, according to local reports. Farmers say the prolonged dry spell and loss of foliage have fostered higher populations of thrips and mites, further damaging crops. The decline threatens silk output, as mulberry leaves are the primary feed for silkworms. The situation is prompting calls for irrigation support and pest‑control measures from authorities.