Diplomat Correspondent
Poonch,DD: In a moment of pride and recognition, Dr. Rubia Bukhari, Founder of the Cocoon Artistry Initiative and a dedicated advocate of rural empowerment through sericulture, was conferred with the prestigious ‘Women Entrepreneur of the Year Award’ at the International Conference on Innovations and Sustainability in Livestock, Aquaculture and Sustainable Agricultural Practices (ISLASA) 2025, held at the Veterinary College, Hassan, Karnataka.
Dr. Bukhari was invited as a Keynote Speaker and Co-Chairman during the technical sessions of the international conference. Her address, titled “Sericulture: An Innovative Era”, captivated delegates and researchers alike as she delved into the convergence of innovation, creativity and tradition in sericulture. She highlighted the transformative potential of this sector in fostering sustainability, reviving cultural heritage and creating livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and rural artisans.
Dr Bukhari also presented her flagship initiative, “The Creative Cocoon Artistry”, which has gained national attention for its grassroots-level impact. The initiative reimagines cocoon waste and by-products into beautiful, eco-friendly art pieces, generating income for underrepresented communities while promoting sustainable practices.
Receiving the Women Entrepreneur of the Year award, Dr. Bukhari expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, calling the honour a “milestone in a journey that began in the border district of Poonch and aspires to connect with the entire nation, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.”
The entire academic fraternity and supporters of rural entrepreneurship extend their congratulations to Dr. Rubia Bukhari on this well-deserved recognition, wishing her continued success in her mission to restore the lost glory of sericulture in India.DD