CS Kundra initiates move to preserve old Pashmina factory as Ladakh’s rich heritage

Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra visited the Pashmina Dehairing Plant and Centre at Industrial Estate, Leh, to review the ongoing dehairing and processing operations and assess the progress of the remaining infrastructure works.
The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Bhanu Prabha, Administrative Secretary, Technical Education & Skill Development Department.
Sanctioned at a cost of ₹19.75 crore under the Pashmina Wool Development Scheme, the project aims to strengthen Pashmina processing infrastructure and support the traditional Pashmina sector of Ladakh.
During the visit, the Chief Secretary inspected the various facilities at the plant and reviewed the ongoing processing activities. He also visited the Pashmina storage unit and took stock of the arrangements for storage and handling of raw Pashmina.
The Chief Secretary further proposed transforming the old Pashmina factory building into an art gallery dedicated to Ladakh’s rich Pashmina heritage and industrial history. He suggested retaining the old machinery as part of the display, along with suitable modifications and improved lighting to enhance the overall presentation and visitor experience.
The proposed gallery is envisaged as a dedicated space showcasing the journey of Ladakh’s Pashmina—from traditional craftsmanship to modern processing—while preserving and promoting its rich heritage for future generations.