Leh, August 14 (KNS): Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh,Kavinder Gupta, has underlined the urgent need for global branding, value addition, and robust marketing of Ladakh’s world-famous Pashmina wool to enhance the income of artisans, entrepreneurs, and self-help groups (SHGs). He said making the Pashmina sector more lucrative will help revive youth interest in the Changthang region, encouraging them to adopt it as a sustainable livelihood.
The Lt Governor reiterated the UT Administration’s commitment to providing timely assistance for value addition and marketing of Pashmina products outside Ladakh to ensure better market access and higher returns for local producers.
During his interaction with artisans, entrepreneurs, and members of the All Changthang Pashmina Growers Cooperative Marketing Society at the Pashmina Dehairing Plant and Lena Weaving Unit in the Industrial Estate, Leh, the Lt Governor emphasised enhancing quality, diversifying products, and adopting modern processing techniques. He called for a comprehensive branding strategy rooted in authenticity, cultural heritage, and premium quality, backed by effective national and global outreach campaigns.
To assess the facilities and benefits extended to artisans, start-ups, and entrepreneurs by the UT Administration through the Industries & Commerce and Animal/Sheep Husbandry departments, the Lt Governor inspected various units at the Industrial Estate, including aluminium and steel fabrication, woodcarving, and Pashmina weaving units.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Calling for greater entrepreneurship among local youth, the Lt Governor urged them not to rely solely on government jobs but to become job providers. He encouraged them to take advantage of Centrally Sponsored Schemes and financial assistance programmes launched by the Government of India, which offer skill development, start-up support, and market linkages. He said combining Ladakh’s traditional craftsmanship with modern business models can create sustainable livelihoods, generate employment, and take the region’s artisanal heritage to national and global markets.
Administrative Secretary Rudra Goud P.T., IAS, informed the Lt Governor that the Pashmina Dehairing Plant can process 10 kg of raw Pashmina per hour, significantly benefiting stakeholders. Members of the Cooperative also briefed the Lt Governor on the functioning of the Pashmina Scouring and Dehairing machines.
While visiting the woodcarving unit of Padma Shri awardee Tsering Namgyal, known for his GI-tagged ‘Ladakh Shingskos’ craft, Shri Kavinder Gupta praised his exceptional artistry and urged him to continue making Ladakh proud.
Councillors from Chushul and Kungyam, senior officials, and directors of relevant departments accompanied the Lt Governor during his visit.(KNS)