OFDA 4000 in Srinagar

May 11, 2023

The Handicrafts and Handlooms Department of Kashmir has acquired a state-of-the-art equipment known as the OFDA 4000. This equipment is set to revolutionize the testing and authentication process of Pashmina, an exquisite fabric known for its luxurious warmth and softness.

Inauguration by Director Handicrafts and Handlooms Kashmir

The inauguration of the equipment took place at the prestigious Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre, located in Bagh e Ali Mardan Khan Nowshera, Srinagar. The Director of Handicrafts and Handlooms Kashmir, Mahmood Ahmad Shah, officiated the ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the Pashmina industry.

Enhancing the Testing and Classification Process

The primary purpose of the OFDA 4000 equipment is to enhance the testing process and classification of Pashmina and other fibres. One of the remarkable features of the equipment is its ability to determine various characteristics of the fibres. It can accurately measure factors such as micron, length, crimp, and more. This comprehensive analysis ensures precise evaluation and classification of Pashmina fibres, guaranteeing their authenticity and quality. Additionally, it significantly reduces the time required for testing and certification, streamlining the overall process.

Unique Availability in Jammu and Kashmir

The OFDA 4000 facility the first of its kind to be commissioned in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Such testing facilities equipped with the OFDA 4000 are limited in number across the country, further highlighting the significance of this development.

Boosting Labelling and Combating Counterfeits

The availability of the OFDA 4000 equipment is poised to have a transformative impact on labelling Pashmina-based Geographical Indication (GI) crafts. GI certification ensures the authenticity and origin of Pashmina products. The advanced testing capabilities of the equipment will enable accurate labelling and result in the widespread use of GI-certified Pashmina products. Moreover, it will play a crucial role in detecting counterfeit Pashmina, protecting the reputation and integrity of this revered fabric.

Securing the Future of Pashmina Artisans

The introduction of the OFDA 4000 equipment is not only a technological advancement but also a boon for Pashmina artisans. This breakthrough will secure the future of the handmade Pashmina sector in the region. With more accurate testing and certification, artisans can confidently produce high-quality Pashmina products, thereby enhancing their earnings and ensuring a sustainable livelihood.

Expert Training and Awareness Camps

To ensure the optimal utilization and maintenance of the equipment, the staff of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, along with the Pashmina Testing Centre, received comprehensive training. In addition, the department plans to organize awareness camps about GI testing and labelling. These camps will educate stakeholders in the Pashmina sector about the advantages and procedures involved in obtaining GI certification.

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