The Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Jitan Ram Manjhi, virtually inaugurated the Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) at Leh. The event was attended by Minister of State (MoS) for MSME, Shobha Karandlaje, and Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd).
CREATE, developed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in collaboration with the Department of Industries and Commerce, UT Ladakh, aims to accelerate rural enterprises in the region through technology.

Union Minister Manjhi emphasized that the establishment of CREATE in Ladakh would significantly contribute to the region’s development, especially in promoting Pashmina production. He noted that life in Ladakh situated over 11,000 feet above sea level, presents unique challenges. However, initiatives like CREATE will provide employment opportunities and improve living conditions in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of empowering the underprivileged through schemes like PM Vishwakarma.

Manjhi commended the Ladakh administration for its efforts to reduce the mortality rate of Pashmina goat kids, and highlighted the integral role of Khadi in the daily lives of Indians. He urged government officials to actively promote Khadi and assured continued support for Ladakh’s development.

Calling the day "historic" for Ladakh, KVIC Chairman Manoj Kumar stated that CREATE would open up new job opportunities for the region’s people. He emphasized that Ladakh produces the world’s finest Pashmina, and the Centre would benefit Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and entrepreneurs involved in this sector. Additionally, the Centre will offer skill enhancement training to these groups.

Lieutenant Governor Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) expressed gratitude to the Ministry of MSME for its role in improving the livelihoods of Ladakh’s traditional handloom and handicraft artisans. He highlighted that the inauguration of CREATE will enhance the skills and income of artisans, entrepreneurs, and SHGs engaged in Pashmina production.

Addressing the challenges of the Pashmina trade, such as low profitability and the high mortality rate of Pashmina goats in Ladakh’s tough terrain, the LG pointed out steps taken by the UT Administration to tackle these issues.

The LG detailed initiatives such as the distribution of 1,000 Pashmina kid pens to reduce goat mortality and the regular check-ups conducted by veterinary doctors. Additionally, bottles for feeding Pashmina goat kids have been distributed to ensure proper nutrition. He also informed the Union Minister that a Pashmina Dehairing Plant will soon be installed in Leh.

Highlighting further developmental initiatives, the LG spoke about connecting apricot cultivation with tourism through events like the Ladakh Apricot Festival to attract more tourists. He also discussed efforts to improve the packaging of sea buckthorn products, enhancing the livelihoods of those involved in this sector.

The LG also shared details about the Milk Pasteurisation Plants being set up in Leh and Kargil to cater to the needs of the local population and defense personnel. He praised the contribution of tourism to Ladakh’s economy, noting the success of the Ladakh Homestay Policy in providing rural livelihoods.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to create "Lakhpati Didis" (women earning over a lakh rupees), the LG expressed his goal of empowering women in Ladakh's newly declared districts, ensuring they contribute to the region’s economy. He also expressed hope for continued support from the Ministry of MSME for Ladakh’s overall development.

Advisor to the UT Administration, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, highlighted the assistance provided by the Ministry of MSME and discussed the challenges faced by SHGs producing Pashmina products. He also elaborated on initiatives aimed at boosting rural livelihoods.

Short films, Atmanirbhar Ladakh: Showcasing Entrepreneurial Potential and Ladakh Pashmina: The World’s Finest, were screened during the event.