The Government of India on Wednesday informed Parliament that there is no proposal under consideration to establish a regional centre of the CSIR–Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) in Ladakh. Replying to an unstarred question by MP Mohmmad Haneefa in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh, according to the news agency said, “There is currently no plan or timeline for setting up a CLRI branch in the Union Territory.”
The Minister, however, said that CLRI, Chennai, is actively working in Ladakh to strengthen the local leather sector and promote livelihood opportunities under the broader CSIR–Ladakh initiative.According to the reply, CLRI has conducted 30-day specialised training programmes for artisans in Leh and Kargil, aimed at transforming traditional leather use into a more organised and sustainable industry.
“The institute is also supporting value addition to local products by developing leather-based combination items with traditional attire such as Goncha and Kamarbandh, besides promoting the use of natural dyes and improved design techniques,” the reply stated.
The government said that the initiatives are focused on empowering women and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to build entrepreneurship in the leather sector.
The activities are being carried out in collaboration with the Department of Industries and Commerce, Rural Development Department and National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Ladakh. The Minister further stated that CLRI’s work is part of the larger CSIR programme in Ladakh, which also includes research support in areas such as high-altitude agriculture, bio-resources and medicinal plants. (KNO)