Director, Sheep Husbandry Department, UT Ladakh, Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, visited Drass on October 5 to assess and review ongoing and proposed initiatives aimed at strengthening sheep husbandry, pashmina rearing and fodder development in the region.

During the visit, the Director inspected the proposed Fodder Development Land at Thasgam, identified by the local community for departmental use. He assessed the potential of the site for fodder development and discussed the prospects of utilising the land to strengthen the fodder base in the area.

The Director thereafter interacted with members of the Pashmina Growers Cooperative Society, Bhimbat, Drass. He stressed the need to strengthen and expand pashmina rearing in Drass, highlighting its potential to improve the livelihoods of local livestock farmers and contribute to the local economy.

Dr. Iftikhar Hussain also apprised the pashmina growers of various initiatives being undertaken by the UT Administration of Ladakh for the promotion and development of the pashmina sector across the Union Territory. He encouraged growers to actively participate in departmental programmes and adopt improved practices to enhance production and productivity.

On the occasion, the Director distributed pashmina combs among pashmina breeders in the area to facilitate improved management of pashmina goats and the collection of quality fibre.

The Director subsequently visited the Fodder Development Farm at Bearas to assess its present status and explore its further development as a dedicated Pashmina Farm in Drass. He also examined possibilities for strengthening fodder production at the farm and emphasised the importance of adequate fodder resources for sustainable livestock and pashmina production in the high-altitude region.

During the visit, Dr. Iftikhar Hussain held a meeting with Deputy Commissioner, Drass, Imteeaz Kacho, to discuss various issues concerning the development and strengthening of the sheep husbandry sector in the district.

The Deputy Commissioner assured the Director of full cooperation and support from the district administration for the development and expansion of departmental activities in Drass. District Sheep Husbandry Officer, Drass, Dr. Zakir Hussain, accompanied the Director during the visit.

The Director also inspected the construction site of the Livestock Shed and Staff Quarters at Mina Marg Highland Pastures and reviewed the progress and requirements of the project.

The visit provided an opportunity to assess first-hand the developmental potential of sheep husbandry, particularly the pashmina sector, in Drass and deliberate on measures to improve livestock infrastructure, fodder availability and pashmina production for the benefit of local breeders and farmers.