Leh: Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta has urged Ladakh’s youth to embrace local products—especially those with Geographical Indication (GI) tags—as a means of sustainable livelihood, saying such initiatives could benefit even the remotest communities in the Union Territory.
Speaking at the inauguration of the week-long National Handloom Day 2025 celebrations at Leh’s Eco Park, the Lt Governor, accompanied by First Lady Bindu Gupta, said Ladakh’s rich heritage offers both cultural pride and economic opportunity. “
Ladakhi artisans are far ahead of others, and there is ample scope to progress further using our ancient culture and tradition as tools,” he said, lauding the high-quality handloom products on display.
Several Ladakhi products have secured the GI tag, including Raktsey Karpo apricots, Pashmina, Ladakhi wood carving, and sea buckthorn.
LG Gupta said these products, if backed with modern tools, machinery, and market linkages, could turn young people into job-creators rather than job-seekers.
The UT administration, he added, would make “utmost effort” by providing subsidised tools and machinery to help artisans scale up production and tap into national and global markets under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
Highlighting the need for skill development, LG Gupta praised the artisans and entrepreneurs for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. He said this not only preserves Ladakh’s centuries-old culture but also strengthens the region’s tourism and export potential.
Chief Secretary Dr Pawan Kotwal described Ladakhi Pashmina as among the finest in the world, noting that efforts were underway to further improve artisan livelihoods through initiatives such as the purchase of a pashmina dehairing plant and value-addition processes.
“Indigenous pashmina from Ladakh will put the region on the global map,” he said.
LAHDC Leh Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi said handloom had been part of Ladakh’s way of life for centuries. He cited opportunities for artisans to showcase their products on national platforms like the “Enchanting Ladakh” event at Delhi Haat, as well as local initiatives such as establishing Common Facilitation Centres and providing equipment at subsidised rates.
Earlier, LG Gupta inspected stalls and interacted with artisans. The event also featured cultural performances and a fashion show by Ladakhi artists, drawing attention to the region’s vibrant traditions and craftsmanship.
