Friday, March 15, 2013

Government Launches Major Programme for Pashmina Developers in Ladakh Region


The recent unprecedented snowfall in Changthang region this winter has left twenty two thousand Pashmina goats dead.

Thus to take care of such natural calamities in future, Government of India through Ministry of Textiles has launched a major programme for development of Pashmina and Pashmina developers in Ladakh region during the 12th Five Year Plan including assistance for setting up Pashmina Goat Pens for protecting flocks and providing ‘Portable Tents, Snow-boots, Torch and Goggles.

The ministry has adopted a participatory approach involving all stake holders including the end beneficiaries to implement sustainable development of Pashmina farmers and enhance Pashmina production. 

The plan envisages a new Pashmina Wool Development Scheme with a special package and a financial allocation of Rs. 41.21 crores.  In addition to protection measures, the main components of the scheme are:

a) Assistance for foundation stock in new areas for Pashmina rearing activities 

b) Health Coverage and 'Feed Supplement'
c) Strengthening of existing Fodder Bank/Farms of LAHDC and Pashmina Goat Breeding Farm
d) Establishment of Multipurpose Extension Centre  and Pasture Farm on migratory routes
e) Training programme/Breeder Orientation Training Camp
f) Research and Development
Pashmina, internationally known as "Cashmere" a fine luxury fibre is being produced from Changthang goats bred in the Ladakh region of India.  Pashmina producing goats are of great importance for revitalizing the economy of the poverty stricken region of Changthang and the Leh district of Ladakh.  Ladakh produces more than 80% of the total Pashmina yield of the country.

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