The Ministry of Textiles is deeply concerned to learn that the recent unprecedented snowfall in Changthang region this winter has left twenty two thousand goats dead. The Ministry of Textiles, had earmarked funds last year for feed supplement and extended coverage period from 90 to 150 days to save Pashmina goats during exigencies.
This timely sanction of funds for purchase of Feed and Fodder under Nutrient Supplement Scheme (IWDP) for Pregnant and weak goats during the year 2012-13 in favour of the nomadic people of Changthang region helped save lakhs of livestock from starvation in normal weather conditions however, the recent unprecedented snowfall has taken a heavy toll on the livestock.
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.For this, 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. “Livelihood of Pashmina farmers and avoiding disruption of economic activity in this important region is one of our foremost priorities”, said the Union Minister of Commerce Industry and Textiles Shri Anand Sharma.
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:
-Assistance for foundation stock in new areas for Pashmina rearing activities
-Health Coverage and ‘Feed Supplement’ -Strengthening of existing Fodder Bank/Farms of LAHDC and Pashmina Goat Breeding Farm
-Establishment of Multipurpose Extension Centre and Pasture Farm on migratory routes
-Training programme/Breeder Orientation Training Camp
-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.
