The north-east Indian state of Meghalaya is all set to establish a Wool Bank within the state with sponsorship of the Ministry of Textiles, state Deputy Chief Minister Bindo M Lanong said, while speaking at inaugural ceremony of the 2nd Shilong Woolen Expo 2012.
The state would also gain self-reliance in wool production with support of Central Wool Development Board (CWDB), he added.
Mr. Lanong said Textile Ministry would focus on rearing of sheep and angora rabbit and other wool producing animals, training and setting up of infrastructure for wool exhibition-cum-sale, as well as on information and technical expertise.
Noting that majority of the cattle rearing in the state is done for meat, Mr. Lanong said time has ripened for a change in purpose of animal rearing from meat consumption to catering to the wool and garment industry.
Stating that sheep rearing is not undertaken on a large-scale in the state, Mr. Lanong said the establishment of a wool bank, which is in its second last stage of completion and likely to conclude by forthcoming winter season, would give a boost to sheep rearing industry in the state.
Mr. Lanong said just like other north-eastern states, Meghalaya also has immense potential in wool rearing.
He also applauded the efforts of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which is heading a series of programs aimed at promoting north-east India as a preferred investment destination.
Mr. Nakib Ahmed, Advisor ICC for northeast region, highlighted ICC's efforts and said establishment of wool bank is a rightly-timed initiative as there is huge demand for woollen items, both in domestic as well as global markets.
He added that north-eastern part of India consists of hilly states, where winter, which is a preferred climate for wool rearing, lasts longer as compared to other regions of the country.
Source:
http://www.fibre2fashion.com/news/textile-news/newsdetails.aspx?news_id=116801
