Ladakhi Youth to Get Subsidised Tools, Machines to Tap GI-Tagged Products for Livelihood

LEH: The Ladakh administration will provide tools and machinery at subsidised rates to help local youth turn Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products into viable sources of income, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta announced on Wednesday, launching a week-long celebration of National Handloom Day at Eco Park in Leh’s main market.

The initiative is aimed at encouraging young people, especially in remote areas, to engage with traditional Ladakhi crafts such as Pashmina, Sea Buckthorn, Ladakhi Wood Carving, and Raktsey Karpo (Apricot), all of which carry GI tags and are being promoted under the Vocal for Local campaign.

“Youth should become job-creators instead of job-seekers,” Gupta said during his address, emphasising the potential of GI-tagged products to drive sustainable livelihoods across the region. “We want to equip them with the right tools and modern machinery so they can scale up production while preserving Ladakh’s heritage.”

The National Handloom Day event, which showcases handloom products from Ladakhi artisans, self-help groups, and entrepreneurs, also featured cultural performances and a fashion show. The Lieutenant Governor and First Lady Bindu Gupta inspected the stalls and interacted with artisans, many of whom presented innovative adaptations of centuries-old designs using locally sourced materials.

Chief Secretary Dr Pawan Kotwal said Ladakhi Pashmina continues to be one of the finest in the world and can boost the region’s global visibility. He highlighted recent government efforts to support the sector, including the purchase of a Pashmina dehairing plant and schemes for value addition. “These are not just handicrafts; they’re our identity and an economic lifeline for many,” he said.

Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Ghulam Mehdi, noted that the region has long been connected to handloom traditions. He outlined ongoing steps to support artisans, including the creation of Common Facilitation Centres and subsidised equipment for community use. He also highlighted opportunities for artisans to present their work at national events such as the Enchanting Ladakh showcase at Delhi Haat.