Ladakh Aims to Become a Global Hub for Pashmina Wool
Leh, Ladakh—Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena shared his vision on Sunday for Ladakh to emerge as a global leader in Pashmina wool production. He highlighted the importance of improving returns for local farmers and artisans by enhancing value additions and expanding market access.
During a visit to the Pashmina Goat Farm in Upshi, Saxena emphasized the government’s commitment to establishing high-quality Pashmina from Ladakh as a recognized global brand. He assured that the administration would fully support initiatives aimed at promoting Ladakhi Pashmina on the world stage.
Saxena pointed out the need for better value realization for local farmers and artisans, stressing the importance of minimizing raw wool waste and utilizing by-products to create additional value-added items. He mentioned that improvements in the processing and branding of Pashmina products, along with better market connections, would help local artisans and boost income for farmers and self-help groups.
During his visit, Saxena learned that Ladakh is known for its exquisite Pashmina wool, celebrated for its softness and high quality. He was informed that there are three Pashmina farms in the region, with the Upshi farm alone producing about 150 kg of raw Pashmina each year. The wool is gathered using traditional combing methods and processed at a dehairing facility in Leh, yielding around 35 percent fine Pashmina from one kilogram of raw wool. The fiber diameter typically ranges from 13 to 15 microns, with some fibers from baby goats measuring just 12 microns, making it one of the world’s most luxurious natural fibers.
The Upshi farm is also home to over 50,000 willow and poplar trees and around 2,000 quintals of alfalfa fodder, contributing to its role as a vital green space in Ladakh.
Saxena suggested developing the farm as a unique tourism spot by introducing guided tours. This could help educate visitors on authentic Ladakhi Pashmina and clear up any misconceptions in the market. He called for visitor-friendly amenities, like a canteen, to enhance the experience and recommended integrating the farm into Ladakh’s tourism circuit while upgrading current facilities.
In addition to the Pashmina farm visit, Saxena toured the Changluk Breeding Farm and the Intensive Fodder Development Farm in Stakna, checking on the ongoing efforts to improve livestock and fodder resources in the area.
