The story
Changpa nomads on the high Changthang plateau of eastern Ladakh rear Changthangi goats, whose fine winter undercoat is the world's finest pashmina. For centuries the raw fibre travelled to Srinagar to be spun and woven into shawls. Herders comb the fibre each spring and sell it, increasingly through cooperatives and a dehairing plant in Leh. Harsh winters, shrinking pastures and young people leaving the herding life threaten supply.
In numbers
A production-based incentive of ₹1.10 crore was disbursed to more than 1,200 Changthang pashmina herders.
Kashmir Life — Rs 1.10 cr incentive disbursed to 1,200 Changthang pashmina herders: LG Ladakh · 2026
GI tag
- Pashmina Wool of LadakhApplication no. GI Application No. 726IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
- Ladakh Pashmina TextileApplication no. GI Application No. 1386IP India — Registration Details of Geographical Indications
Ways in for a newcomer
- Spinning and weaving Ladakh pashmina locally instead of selling raw fibre
- GI-labelled Ladakh pashmina brand for direct sales
- Fodder supply and veterinary services for herders
- Tourism linked to nomad culture
Problems the cluster faces
- Harsh winters and goat deaths
- Shrinking pastures
- Young people leaving herding
- Low share of final value reaching herders
Businesses to start here
Shawls, Stoles, Scarves and Wraps →Wool Felt Products →Handloom and Handicrafts Retail Shop →