NEWS – Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav Inaugurates Advanced Wildlife and Pashmina Certification Facilities at Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Facility

What is NGS?

• Definition: Advanced technology for decoding entire genomes, analyzing millions of DNA sequences simultaneously.
• Applications in Wildlife Conservation:
  • Identifying genetic diversity and health of populations.
  • Understanding evolutionary relationships and unique adaptations.
  • Studying disease outbreaks and pathogen-host interactions.
  • Addressing illegal wildlife trade.
  • Assessing climate change effects on biodiversity.

Significance

• Revolutionary Role: Positions WII as a leader in molecular and genetic research.
• Research Benefits:
  • Biodiversity genomics.
  • Population genetics.
  • Conservation strategies for endangered species like tigers, elephants, and dolphins.

Advanced Facility for Pashmina Certification

Background and Achievements

• Inception: Established under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between WII and the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH).
• Performance: Certified over 15,000 shawls in one year, ensuring fiber authenticity.

Technological Upgrades

• Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) with EDS: Enhances accuracy and reliability in fiber testing.
• Key Features:
  • Advanced fiber analysis for Pashmina authentication.
  • Unique ID tagging and e-certificates for traceability.
  • Facilitation of seamless global trade.

Significance for Artisans and Conservation

• Economic Impact: Supports artisan and weaver communities in Jammu & Kashmir.
• Fair Trade: Enhances product credibility in international markets and ensures fair practices.
• Conservation Efforts: Discourages illegal use of fibers like Shahtoosh, contributing to Tibetan antelope habitat conservation.

Pashmina Certification: A Model for Self-Reliance

• Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat: Demonstrates the government’s commitment to traditional handicrafts.
• Revenue Generation: Self-sustaining model creating employment opportunities.
• Trade Benefits: Reduces delays and financial losses due to fiber scrutiny at exit points.

Impact on Biodiversity and Livelihoods

• Wildlife Conservation: Advances research into climate adaptation, disease control, and species protection.
• Economic Growth: Promotes sustainable livelihoods for artisans while contributing to conservation goals.