Diplomat Correspondent
Zanskar: DD, In a significant step toward promoting sustainable wool production and enhancing rural livelihoods, Sheep Husbandry Department, Kargil, officially launched the Integrated Wool Development Programme (IWDP) for the year 2025–26, under the aegis of the Central Wool Development Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, in the Zanskar Subdivision today.
The event was organized in the form of a grand Sheep Show-cum-Seminar, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from breeders, officials, and public representatives.
The event was inaugurated by Er. Punchok Tashi, Executive Councilor, LAHDC Kargil, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, Director, Sheep Husbandry Department, UT Ladakh, graced as the guest of honour and Mohammad Hassan Sub Divisional Magistrate as special guest.
On the opening remarks Dr zakir Hussain Officer Incharge Pashmina Goat Farm Khangral welcomed the guests and presented Traditional Khataks and badgeDr Niyaz Ul Hasnain District Sheep husbandry officer LAHDC Kargil highlighted the departmental activities like recent sanctioning of 05 community shelter sheds and )5 Rarzis under SDP in Zanskar Department commitment to educate young entrepreneurs.
More than 250 sheep breeders from various villages of Zanskar Subdivision took part in the event, highlighting the region’s strong connection to traditional sheep farming and wool production.
The programme focused on strengthening the wool value chain by integrating modern techniques, tools, and training into traditional practices.
The components of the IWDP programme Launched were:
Machine sheep Shearing Training:
A training session on machine-based wool shearing was provided to 20 local farmers, aimed at enhancing their skills in efficient, hygienic, and quality wool harvesting. The shift from manual to machine shearing is expected to improve productivity while reducing labor intensity and wool damage.
Distribution of Wool Processing Tools:
To promote local-level wool processing and craft development, the department distributed essential tools, including: Hand Charkhas, Pedal Charkhas, and Hand Carders.
These tools are intended to support home-based wool spinning and carding, especially among women and self-help groups, thereby fostering grassroots entrepreneurship.
Recognition of Outstanding Breeders:
As part of the initiative to motivate and encourage best practices in livestock rearing, awards were presented to outstanding breeders. Their dedication and efforts toward sheep rearing were publicly recognized, setting a positive example for other farmers.
Addressing the gathering, Er. Punchok Tashi appreciated the proactive approach of the Sheep Husbandry Department in reaching remote areas like Zanskar.
He stressed the importance of integrating modern tools and scientific methods with local knowledge to enhance wool quality and market value.
He also assured to provide full cooperation and support from LAHDC Kargil to develop the ancestral Tradition of Nambu/Frug in a modern and scientific way.
Dr. Iftikhar Hussain, Director, Sheep Husbandry UT Ladakh, emphasized the department’s commitment to supporting farmers through technical training, infrastructure support, and market linkages.
He assured continued departmental efforts toward improving the livelihood of progressive breeders by providing more community shelter sheds, Rarzi under SDP.
Mohammad Hassan SDM zanskar said that the launch of the IWDP Scheme in Zanskar marks a significant milestone in the journey toward self-reliant wool production, livestock development, and rural empowerment in Ladakh.
The department’s efforts to introduce modern technology, skill-building, and tool distribution are expected to have a long-term positive impact on income generation, employment, and preservation of the region’s rich wool heritage.
At Last Dr Zakir thanked all dignitaries, farmers, Goba / Lambardars of villages, Media, SHS who supported to make the occasion a success.DD
