The actinomycete strain NAA9 exhibiting cellulase production potential was identified based on 16S rDNA sequencing and was found belonging to Streptomyces group. On studying the effect of different lignocellulosic biomass on cellulase production by Streptomyces sp. NAA9, Parthenium hysterophorus weed biomass induced highest levels of enzyme production. The enzyme production was further enhanced by optimization of various parameters, under submerged fermentation conditions. The optimized conditions of 2% (w/v) substrate concentration, 40 degrees C temperature, pH 6.0, an incubation period of 6 days and supplementation of the medium with 0.5% ammonium sulfate, resulted in maximum 0.990 +/- 0.012 U/ml endoglucanase production. The findings demonstrate the improved cellulase production by Streptomyces strain NAA9 using P. hysterophorus and indicate the potential of this weed biomass in acting as a low-cost natural substrate for cellulase production. The enzyme produced by actinomycete strain can also be utilized in various applications based on the bioconversion of the cellulosic biomass.