OBSTACLES FACED BY CRAFTSMEN AND TRADERS IN PASHMINA SECTOR: A STUDY OF J&K.

The pashmina industry of Kashmir is a crucial economic contributor to the state and to the country as well. It is one of the largest economic activities providing direct employment to majority of artisans and traders. This sector also plays an important role in the development and welfare of artisans. The pashmina sector makes conspicuous contribution in sustaining export trade of the state. However, the industry has seen a decline during late 90’s. The industry is facing lot of challenges due to intervention of modern machinery, lack of information regarding market trends and also due to increased competition from various countries. The industry requires feasible steps to be taken for the purpose of increasing the productivity, competitiveness and capacity of enterprises. This study seeks to identify the major obstacles faced by artisans and traders who are related with this trade. The study also focused on feasible steps to be taken for overall sustainable growth of the cluster.