Srinagar, July 31 (KNO): In a bid to strengthen market linkages for Ladakh Pashmina growers and ensure better returns for herders, the Cooperatives Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh on Thursday organised a Buyer-Seller Meet in Srinagar.
The event, held at the DIPR Auditorium in collaboration with the All Changthang Pashmina Growers Cooperative Society Ltd. and J&K Bank, brought together Pashmina herders, buyers, exporters, traders and industry representatives from across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.
Deputy Commissioner, Changthang, Nitish Rajora, who was the chief guest, per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), highlighted the significance of the Changthang region, home to nearly 1.84 lakh Changra goats that produce the world-famous Ladakh Pashmina.
More than 100 buyers, exporters, traders, entrepreneurs and representatives of leading business organisations participated in the meet.
The programme provided a platform for direct interaction between Pashmina growers and prospective buyers, facilitating discussions on quality, pricing, procurement and market requirements.
Prominent participants included representatives from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Kashmir Pashmina Welfare Trust, Tahafuz Society and J&K Bank.
Addressing the gathering, Nitish Rajora said Ladakh Pashmina enjoys global recognition for its exceptional quality and stressed the role of cooperative societies in improving market access for nomadic herders, ensuring fair remuneration and preserving the authenticity of the fibre.
He also reiterated the UT administration's commitment to strengthening the cooperative movement and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for Pashmina-growing communities.
During the event, members of the All Changthang Pashmina Growers Cooperative Society showcased authentic Ladakh Pashmina and value-added products. The interaction allowed buyers to gain firsthand insight into the production process and quality standards, while providing herders an opportunity to better understand market expectations.
Officials also announced plans to develop a dedicated digital platform and mobile application for Pashmina growers, artisans and cooperative members. The platform is expected to facilitate digital payments, improve access to government schemes, provide market information and create direct links between producers and buyers.
An interactive session was held on issues including quality assurance, branding, GI certification, value addition, digital marketing and opportunities to expand domestic and international markets for Ladakh Pashmina.
The Cooperatives Department said it would continue organising similar initiatives to promote authentic Ladakh Pashmina, strengthen direct market linkages and ensure that the benefits of value addition reach the herders of Changthang—(KNO)