Science, Sustainability and Branding Take Centre Stage at Ladakh Pashmina Conclave 2026

SRINAGAR: The second day of the Ladakh Pashmina Conclave 2026 witnessed intensive deliberations on strengthening the entire Pashmina value chain, with scientists, researchers, industry leaders, policymakers and local entrepreneurs coming together to chart a sustainable and globally competitive future for Ladakh's iconic fibre.

Held at Ladakh Sarai Resort in Ayu, Saboo, the conclave focused on enhancing production, scientific authentication, value addition, certification, branding and market development while ensuring greater benefits reach the pastoral communities that form the backbone of the sector.

A series of technical sessions examined ways to increase Pashmina fibre yield without compromising quality, restore fragile high-altitude grasslands, strengthen certification mechanisms and create new market opportunities for Ladakh's traditional fibre and handicraft industries. Experts stressed that sustainable pastoralism, scientific innovation and stronger market linkages must go hand in hand to secure the future of the region's renowned "Golden Fibre."

The session on "Goat Production, Grassland Restoration and Fibre Yield" featured presentations by Dr Feroz Din Sheikh, Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding at HAL.RI, University of Ladakh, Dr Khursheed Ahmad Dar of Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology (SKUAST), Dr Ronnie Lamb, who joined virtually and Dr Rashmi Singh, who spoke on the significance of the International Year of Rangelands. The discussions highlighted the critical role of sustainable livestock management, grassland conservation and scientific breeding practices in improving fibre productivity while protecting the fragile ecosystem of the Changthang plateau.

Another session on "Yak and Sheep Wool: Fibre and Livelihoods" explored the untapped potential of yak and sheep wool in supporting diversified incomes for pastoral households. Experts discussed fibre characteristics, value-added applications and opportunities to strengthen sustainable livelihoods through the broader utilisation of mountain-based natural fibres.

The conclave also devoted considerable attention to modern processing technologies. Deliberations on spinning, weaving, fibre testing and certification underscored the importance of scientific advancements in improving product quality and enhancing the market value of Ladakh Pashmina. R. Naresh, Founder and Managing Director of Shuttles & Needles Pvt. Ltd. and distributor of Ashford India products, shared insights into contemporary tools and technologies that can help artisans and producers improve efficiency and value addition. Scientists from the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology and the Pashmina Certification Centre discussed emerging approaches to scientific authentication, quality assurance and certification systems to protect the unique identity of Pashmina in domestic and international markets.

 A dedicated session on "Cooperatives, Proof of Origin and Geographical Indication (GI)" brought together entrepreneurs, industry experts and policymakers to deliberate on traceability, certification and branding. Participants emphasised the need for robust proof-of-origin systems and stronger producer collectives to safeguard the authenticity of Ladakh Pashmina. Discussions also examined the implementation of GI protection, the Pashmina Mark initiative of the Textiles Committee and Central Wool Development Board, and lessons that could be drawn from the successful branding of Kashmir Pashmina.

Speakers repeatedly stressed that the benefits of authenticity and premium branding must reach those who sustain the sector, particularly the Changpa pastoralists, artisans and local stakeholders whose traditional knowledge has preserved Pashmina production for generations. Strengthening cooperatives, improving traceability and ensuring fair value distribution emerged as key themes throughout the discussions.

The afternoon session shifted focus to branding, packaging and marketing, with experts exploring strategies to position Ladakh Pashmina as a distinctive premium product in global luxury fibre markets. Karun Ahuja, Director of Ahujusons, is scheduled to discuss the creation of an umbrella brand for Ladakh Pashmina, while Prithvi Ranjan and Pragya Dubey from the National Institute of Design will share perspectives on design-led branding, packaging and storytelling. Ahmad Naqush is also expected to speak on the legacy of Pashmina and its contemporary relevance in evolving global markets.

The discussions build upon the vision outlined during the inaugural session of the two-day conclave, which was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. Organised as a Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet, the event has brought together an unprecedented gathering of stakeholders from across the Pashmina ecosystem, including Changpa nomadic herders, artisans, women-led self-help groups, entrepreneurs, designers, manufacturers, researchers, textile industry representatives and domestic as well as international buyers.

Known globally for its exceptional softness, warmth and heritage value, Ladakh Pashmina has long been celebrated as the "Golden Fibre of Ladakh." Addressing delegates at the inaugural session, the Lt. Governor underscored the need for greater value addition within the region. "Our vision is clear- Pashmina must be produced in Ladakh, processed in Ladakh, branded as Ladakh Pashmina, and taken to the world from Ladakh," he said, emphasising that Changpa herders, artisans, women entrepreneurs and self-help groups must remain at the heart of the sector's growth.

The conclave also attracted significant international participation, with delegates from Mongolia, Japan and Thailand contributing to discussions on sustainable pastoral livelihoods, fibre quality enhancement, advanced processing technologies, craftsmanship, product development and market expansion. Their participation added a global dimension to the event and opened new avenues for collaboration, knowledge exchange and market access.