DC Changthang launches NIFT skill upgradation at Phobrang, hands over CFC to SHGs; directs winter stocking of essential commodities at Cooperative shops.

DC Changthang launches NIFT skill upgradation at Phobrang, hands over CFC to SHGs; directs winter stocking of essential commodities at Cooperative shops.
Phobrang/Nyoma, 6 October 2026:
Deputy Commissioner, Changthang, Sh. Nitish Rajora, IAS, today inaugurated a five-day Dyeing Technique Upgradation Programme at Phobrang, Durbuk, being conducted by NIFT Srinagar, to equip local artisans with modern, market-oriented skills and enable them to enhance the quality, value and income potential of their traditional products.
The programme, under the “Har Haath – Skill & Modern Upgradation” approach, focuses on strengthening the technical capabilities of artisans through contemporary dyeing techniques and improved production practices. The DC interacted with the trainees and distributed training kits, encouraging them to translate the acquired skills into higher-value and commercially viable products.
The DC also formally handed over the Phobrang Common Facility Centre (CFC) to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), initiating the systematic handover of CFCs to SHGs and Cooperatives across Changthang.
The Administration has set 10 October as the target for completion of the handover of all CFCs, enabling local artisans to access dedicated workspaces and common facilities for production, training and collective enterprise.
Emphasising that CFCs must become productive community assets, the DC called for their effective utilisation by SHGs and Cooperatives. The products developed through these centres will subsequently be supported through Brand Ladakh emporiums, exhibitions and other market-linkage platforms, creating stronger avenues for market access and better returns to artisans.
Earlier , the DC inspected the Cooperative Marketing Shop at Nyoma and reviewed the functioning of the Cooperative Department.
Taking note of the challenging winter conditions and difficult connectivity in the region, he directed the ARC Nyoma to undertake advance planning and ensure adequate stocking and uninterrupted availability of essential commodities at Cooperative shops across Changthang throughout the winter.
The visit brought together three key interventions—modern skill development, community-led utilisation of CFC infrastructure and strengthened Cooperative services—with a common focus on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities and ensuring reliable essential services in the remote areas of Changthang.
The DC was accompanied by the AD Handlooms & Handicrafts, Leh, and SDM Durbuk, besides concerned departmental officials, SHG representatives and local artisans.