Leh (Ladakh): Ashish Kundra chaired a high-level meeting to review and strengthen the collection and production processes of pashmina in the Union Territory, with a focus on improving quality, efficiency, and livelihoods.
During the meeting, officials discussed measures to streamline the entire pashmina value chain—from raw wool collection to processing and marketing. Emphasis was laid on enhancing coordination among departments and ensuring better support for local herders and artisans involved in pashmina production.
Pashmina, sourced from the fine undercoat of Changthangi goats found in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, is one of the region’s most valuable traditional products. The administration is working towards improving procurement systems, grading standards, and processing techniques to maximise returns for producers.
The meeting also highlighted the need to adopt modern technologies and best practices to improve productivity while maintaining the authenticity and quality of Ladakhi pashmina. Officials stressed capacity building, infrastructure development, and market linkages as key focus areas.
Discussions included strengthening institutional mechanisms for efficient wool collection, ensuring fair pricing for herders, and promoting value addition within the region to boost local income and employment.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Ladakh administration to promote sustainable economic growth by leveraging its traditional industries, with pashmina playing a central role in supporting rural livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
