The Ministry of Textiles
is deeply concerned to learn that the recent unprecedented snowfall in Changthang region this winter has left twenty two thousand
goats dead.The Ministry of Textiles,had earmarked funds last year for feed supplement
and extended coverage period from 90 to 150 days to save Pashmina
goats during exigencies. This timely
sanction of funds for purchase of Feed and Fodder under Nutrient Supplement
Scheme (IWDP) for Pregnant and weak goats during the year 2012-13 in favour of the nomadic people of Changthang
region helped save lakhs of livestock from starvation
in normal weather conditions however, the recent unprecedented snowfall has
taken a heavy toll on the livestock.
To take care of such
natural calamities in future, Government of India through Ministry of Textiles
has launched a major programme for development of Pashmina and Pashmina developers
in Ladakh region during the 12th Five Year
Plan including assistance for setting up Pashmina Goat Pens for protecting flocks and providing
‘Portable Tents, Snow-boots, Torch and Goggles.For
this, the ministry has adopted a participatory approach involving all stake
holders including the end beneficiaries to implement sustainable development of
Pashmina farmers and enhance Pashmina
production. “ Livelihood of Pashmina
farmers and avoiding disruption of economic activity in this important region
is one of our foremost priority”, said the Union Minister of Commerce Industry
and Textiles Shri Anand
Sharma.
The plan envisages a new Pashmina
Wool Development Scheme with a special package and a financial allocation of Rs. 41.21 crores. In addition to protection measures, the main
components of the scheme are:
Ø
Assistance for foundation stock in new areas for Pashmina rearing activities
Ø
Health Coverage and ‘Feed Supplement’
Ø
Strengthening of existing Fodder Bank/Farms of LAHDC and Pashmina Goat Breeding Farm
Ø
Establishment of Multipurpose Extension Centre and Pasture Farm on migratory routes
Ø Training programme/Breeder Orientation Training Camp
Ø Research and Development
Pashmina, internationally known as “Cashmere” a fine luxury fibre is being produced from Changthang
goats bred in the Ladakh region of India. Pashmina producing
goats are of great importance for revitalizing the economy of the poverty
stricken region of Changthang and the Leh district of Ladakh. Ladakh produces
more than 80% of the total Pashmina yield of the
country.
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