Leh: The second day of the Pashmina Conclave 2026 in Leh focused on quality standards, design integration and institutional collaboration aimed at strengthening Ladakh’s traditional Pashmina sector and positioning Changthang fibre in global luxury markets.
Held under the theme “From Changthang Fibre to Global Luxury Standards,” the two-day conclave was organised by the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh and brought together policymakers, experts, designers, entrepreneurs, cooperative representatives and local artisans to chart a roadmap for developing the region’s Pashmina ecosystem.
The day featured a series of thematic panel discussions centred on value-chain strengthening through standardisation, skill development and market expansion.
The first session on fibre quality, testing and standardisation, moderated by Secretary Cooperatives Bhupesh Chaudhary (IAS), included representatives from the Changthang Cooperative Society, the Textile Committee, EZMA, Jungwa Foundation and Pangong Craft Institute. Participants stressed maintaining international quality benchmarks through scientific testing, fibre segregation and systematic aggregation to ensure traceability and authenticity.
A second panel on fibre-to-fashion integration and cultural identity, moderated by Secretary, Rural Development Shashanka Ala (IAS), included participation from the National Institute of Fashion Technology and industry designers. The discussion emphasised blending traditional Changthang fibre with contemporary design while preserving Ladakh’s cultural identity, along with the need for capacity building in design, innovation and branding.
The third session focused on brand architecture, market access and commercial scaling, where stakeholders deliberated on brand positioning, market linkages and scaling production without compromising quality.
In another session on institutional convergence and ecosystem governance, officials from NABARD, the Central Silk Board and the Central Wool Development Board discussed collaboration, skill development initiatives and financial convergence. Participants also proposed exploring the creation of a dedicated institutional mechanism in Ladakh to strengthen the Pashmina sector.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by the Textile Committee on the Pashmina Mark Standard Operating Procedures, covering registration, certification, testing parameters and compliance mechanisms aimed at strengthening product authentication.
The conclave concluded with a valedictory session where stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the authenticity of Changthang Pashmina and enhancing its global positioning. Visiting experts later undertook a field visit to the Pashmina de-hairing plant in Leh to observe processing techniques and suggest further value addition measures.
