Ladakh takes steps to boost Pashmina business of Changpas

Srinagar: Ladakh lieutenant governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved two resolutions aimed at strengthening the Union Territory’s globally renowned Pashmina industry and improving the livelihoods of indigenous Changpa pastoral communities.

The first meeting of the newly constituted Ladakh Pashmina Development Board approved the Livestock Development Incentive Scheme, which includes an incentive to herders to complete 25% of the total Pashmina supply value to increase the production of the valuable natural fiber from mountain goats.

LG also cooperated with All Changthang Pashmina Breeders Cooperative Marketing Society Ltd for purchasing raw Pashmina from nomadic herders and pre-paying them for their products. Approved a revolving fund of ₹8 million for
Saxena said the twin initiatives aim to promote sustainable livestock development, increase the population of Pashmina goats, strengthen the cooperative purchasing system, improve the quality and quantity of Ladakh Pashmina, provide financial benefits to nomadic herders and eliminate distress sales.