In a move to empower the pastoral communities of the Changthang region, the Cooperatives Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the All Changthang Pashmina Growers Cooperative Society Ltd., organized a one-day interaction-cum-seminar here today.
The event brought together members of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), industrial representatives, textile entrepreneurs, traders, and buyers to forge direct market linkages for the region’s world-renowned Pashmina.
The programme was designed to secure better returns for the Changpa pastoralists by connecting them directly with the industry, thereby eliminating intermediaries and ensuring transparent procurement. The seminar witnessed active participation from the textile and handicrafts sector, who engaged with the Cooperative Society representatives to explore opportunities for procuring authentic GI-tagged Ladakh Pashmina.
Discussions during the session centered on critical aspects such as quality assurance, branding, value addition, market expansion, and the development of long-term business partnerships. The interactive format allowed both buyers and producers to exchange views on market expectations, product quality, and avenues for future cooperation.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner of Changthang, Shri Nitish Rajora, IAS, underscored the pivotal role of the Pashmina sector as the economic backbone of the region. He emphasized that direct industry engagement would empower Changpa herders by ensuring fair pricing, transparent procurement processes, and sustainable livelihoods.
“Direct engagement with industry is crucial for empowering our Changpa herders. It ensures they receive fair prices for their labour and preserves their traditional way of life,” said Shri Rajora. He called upon industrial stakeholders to build long-term partnerships with the Cooperative Society and actively support the promotion of authentic Ladakh Pashmina in national and international markets.
Representatives of the All Changthang Pashmina Growers Cooperative Society briefed participants about their initiatives to strengthen procurement systems, improve quality standards, and enhance the income of Pashmina-producing families across the Changthang region.
Members of CII and other industrial representatives expressed high appreciation for the quality of Ladakh Pashmina and showed keen interest in developing direct sourcing arrangements and collaborative business models. The interactive session concluded with a productive dialogue between buyers and producers, enabling both sides to align on market expectations and future cooperation.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Deputy Registrar of Cooperatives, Ladakh, expressed gratitude to the members of CII, industrial representatives, buyers, and all participating stakeholders for their enthusiastic participation. He reaffirmed the Cooperatives Department’s commitment to strengthening market linkages for Ladakh Pashmina.
“Our goal is to ensure that the benefits of value addition and enhanced market access reach the Changpa herders, who are the true custodians of this unique natural fibre,” he stated.
The seminar marks a crucial step towards integrating the traditional Pashmina economy of Ladakh with mainstream markets, promising a sustainable and prosperous future for the region’s pastoral communities.
