Experts deliberate on grassland restoration, fibre quality, GI traceability, value addition and global market opportunities for Ladakh Pashmina Leh: The second day of the Ladakh Pashmina Conclave 2026 continued at Ladakh Sarai Resort, Ayu, Saboo, with experts, scientists, researchers, industry representatives and local entrepreneurs deliberating on strengthening the Pashmina value chain through sustainable production, scientific authentication, modern processing and global branding. The technical sessions focused on improving Pashmina fibre yield while preserving its quality, restoring high-altitude grasslands, exploring the potential of yak and sheep wool, strengthening certification systems and expanding market opportunities for Ladakh’s traditional fibre and handicraft sector. The session on “Goat Production, Grassland Restoration and Fibre Yield” featured presentations by Dr Feroz Din Sheikh, Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding, HAL.RI, University of Ladakh, Stakna Campus; Dr Khursheed Ahmad Dar of SKUAST; Dr Ronnie Lamb, who joined online; and Dr Rashmi Singh, who spoke on the International Year of Rangelands. Discussions highlighted sustainable livestock management, grassland conservation and scientific approaches to improving fibre productivity. A session on “Yak and Sheep Wool: Fibre and Livelihoods” explored fibre characteristics, diverse applications and opportunities to strengthen sustainable livelihoods among pastoral communities. Deliberations on spinning, weaving, testing and certification highlighted the role of modern technologies and scientific advancements in enhancing the quality and value of Ladakh Pashmina. R. Naresh, Founder and Managing Director of Shuttles & Needles Pvt. Ltd. and Ashford India distributor, shared insights into modern tools and techniques for value addition. Experts from CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology and the Pashmina Certification Centre discussed scientific authentication, quality assurance, the evolution of certification systems and the importance of protecting Pashmina’s identity in domestic and international markets. The session on “Cooperatives, Proof of Origin and Geographical Indication (GI)” brought together local entrepreneurs and experts to discuss traceability, certification and the role of cooperatives in safeguarding the identity of authentic Ladakh Pashmina. Discussions also covered the ‘Pashmina Mark’ initiative of the Textiles Committee and Central Wool Development Board, GI implementation and lessons from the branding of Kashmir Pashmina. The deliberations emphasised the importance of strengthening producer collectives, establishing credible proof-of-origin mechanisms and ensuring that the benefits of authentic Pashmina reach the Changpa pastoralists, artisans and other stakeholders who sustain this traditional craft. The afternoon session on “Branding, Packaging and Marketing” is focusing on strategies to position Ladakh Pashmina as a distinctive premium product. Karun Ahuja, Director, Ahujusons, is scheduled to speak on developing an umbrella brand for Ladakh Pashmina, while Prithvi Ranjan and Pragya Dubey of the National Institute of Design (NID) are scheduled to share perspectives on branding, packaging and storytelling. Ahmad Naqush is also scheduled to discuss the legacy of Pashmina and its contemporary market potential. The ongoing conclave continues to provide a platform for collaboration among government departments, scientific institutions, industry experts, cooperatives and entrepreneurs, with a focus on integrating sustainable pastoralism, scientific research, quality assurance, GI protection, value addition and market development to strengthen the livelihoods of Ladakh’s Pashmina-producing communities and enhance the global recognition of Ladakh Pashmina.
LEH: Director, Sheep Husbandry Department, UT Ladakh, Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, on Wednesday reviewed the functioning of the Pashmina Dehairing Plant…