Ladakh to emerge as global hub for premium Pashmina, says Chief Secretary

Stressing the preservation of the authenticity of Ladakh’s prized Pashmina, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra has called for transforming the cold desert region into a global leader in high-quality Pashmina production.

Kundra unveiled a multi-pronged strategy to streamline production and maximise value for local herders.

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Chairing a high-level review meeting, he emphasised scientific herd management, modernised dehairing infrastructure, and stronger supply chains to boost production efficiency and ensure better returns for pastoral communities.

Highlighting the need for improved aggregation, storage, and branding, Kundra underscored the importance of robust supply chains and stronger cooperative networks to ensure fair and timely remuneration for primary producers while preserving the authenticity of Ladakh’s prized Pashmina.

The meeting primarily focused on improving the efficiency of raw Pashmina collection, scientific processing, and value addition to ensure higher returns for local producers.

Emphasising production, the Chief Secretary directed the concerned departments to increase Pashmina yield through improved herd management, enhanced veterinary support, and scientific breeding practices.

He further stressed the need to ensure timely and efficient collection of raw Pashmina from pastoral areas, with proper mechanisms for aggregation and transportation to processing centres.

Special focus was laid on strengthening the dehairing process, which is crucial for refining raw Pashmina into usable fibre.

The Chief Secretary directed that adequate infrastructure be ensured for clean collection, sorting, grading, and dehairing, along with the availability of necessary machinery and trained manpower. He also emphasised minimising wastage and maintaining quality standards throughout the process.

He further stressed the importance of establishing a robust supply chain system, ensuring proper storage facilities, and strengthening cooperative networks to streamline procurement and distribution. Kundra also highlighted the need for quality certification and branding of Ladakh Pashmina to preserve its authenticity and enhance its market competitiveness.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to enhancing Pashmina collection and production systems in Ladakh, Kundra urged all stakeholders to work in close coordination to establish the region as a global leader in high-quality Pashmina production while securing sustainable livelihoods for its pastoral communities.

The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretary, Animal Husbandry, Rudra Goud P.T.; Administrative Secretary, Cooperatives, Ms Bhanu Prabha; Administrative Secretary, Rural Development Department, Ms Shashanka Ala; Director, Sheep Husbandry Department, Dr Iftikhar Hussain; Director, Industries & Commerce Department; along with representatives from cooperative societies and experts associated with Pashmina development in Ladakh.