The second day of the Ladakh Pashmina Conclave 2026 continued at Ladakh Sarai Resort, Ayu, Saboo, on October 24, bringing together experts, scientists, researchers, industry representatives and local entrepreneurs to discuss ways to strengthen the Pashmina value chain through sustainable production, scientific authentication, modern processing and global branding.

The technical sessions focused on improving Pashmina fibre yield while preserving its quality, restoring high-altitude grasslands, exploring the potential of yak and sheep wool, strengthening certification systems and expanding market opportunities for Ladakh’s traditional fibre and handicraft sector.

The session on “Goat Production, Grassland Restoration and Fibre Yield” featured presentations by Dr Feroz Din Sheikh, Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding at HAL.RI, University of Ladakh, Stakna Campus; Dr Khursheed Ahmad Dar of SKUAST; Dr Ronnie Lamb, who joined online; and Dr Rashmi Singh, who spoke on the International Year of Rangelands. The discussions highlighted sustainable livestock management, grassland conservation and scientific approaches to improving fibre productivity.

A separate session on “Yak and Sheep Wool: Fibre and Livelihoods” explored the characteristics and applications of these fibres, along with opportunities to strengthen sustainable livelihoods among pastoral communities.

Deliberations on spinning, weaving, testing and certification highlighted the role of modern technologies and scientific advancements in improving the quality and value of Ladakh Pashmina. R. Naresh, Founder and Managing Director of Shuttles & Needles Pvt. Ltd. and distributor of Ashford India, shared insights into modern tools and techniques for value addition.

Experts from CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology and the Pashmina Certification Centre discussed scientific authentication, quality assurance, the evolution of certification systems and the importance of protecting Pashmina’s identity in domestic and international markets.

The session on “Cooperatives, Proof of Origin and Geographical Indication (GI)” brought together local entrepreneurs and experts to discuss traceability, certification and the role of cooperatives in safeguarding the identity of authentic Ladakh Pashmina. Discussions also covered the ‘Pashmina Mark’ initiative of the Textiles Committee and the Central Wool Development Board, GI implementation and lessons from the branding of Kashmir Pashmina.

The deliberations emphasised the need to strengthen producer collectives, establish credible proof-of-origin mechanisms and ensure that the benefits of authentic Pashmina reach Changpa pastoralists, artisans and other stakeholders who sustain the traditional craft.

The afternoon session on “Branding, Packaging and Marketing” focused on strategies to position Ladakh Pashmina as a distinctive premium product. Karun Ahuja, Director of Ahujusons, was scheduled to speak on developing an umbrella brand for Ladakh Pashmina, while Prithvi Ranjan and Pragya Dubey of the National Institute of Design (NID) were scheduled to share perspectives on branding, packaging and storytelling. Ahmad Naqush was also scheduled to discuss the legacy of Pashmina and its contemporary market potential.

The conclave continues to provide a platform for collaboration among government departments, scientific institutions, industry experts, cooperatives and entrepreneurs. The discussions aim to integrate sustainable pastoralism, scientific research, quality assurance, GI protection, value addition and market development to strengthen the livelihoods of Ladakh’s Pashmina-producing communities and enhance the global recognition of Ladakh Pashmina.