Gaddi shepherds urge Himachal govt to grade wool for better prices

Gaddi shepherds have called on the Himachal Pradesh government to direct the State Wool Federation to grade their wool for better market prices. According to Akshay Jasrotia, president of the Ghamantu Pashupalak Sabha, the federation currently sells raw, ungraded wool, resulting in shepherds earning only Rs 40 per kg Jasrotia believes that grading the wool could significantly boost prices.

He also pointed out the federation has the infrastructure to wash the wool, which could further increase its value, but this facility remains underutilized. Meanwhile, federation officials argue grading could leave a large portion of the wool unsold, as manufacturers prefer to handle washing themselves.

Despite these challenges, the state Shepherd Association emphasizes the potential of organic wool produced by Gaddi shepherds, which currently fetches Rs 70-90 per kg. They suggest that the government certify all Gaddi wool as organic to improve returns. Himachal produces about 5 lakh kg of wool annually, with the state federation procuring only 1 lakh kg. The rest is sold at low prices to traders from other states.