The Ministry of Textiles has unveiled a new certification framework aimed at strengthening India’s position in the global wool market, introducing the Bharat Wool Mark and Pashmina Mark alongside an export facilitation centre in Ludhiana.
The initiative is designed to enhance the credibility and traceability of Indian wool products while providing a cost-effective alternative to established international certifications such as Woolmark. Officials indicated that the move seeks to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often find global certification systems financially prohibitive.
T K Rout, director of the Textiles Committee, stated that the domestic wool industry is facing intense global competition and must reposition itself through stronger standardisation and branding. He noted that the newly introduced marks are intended to reinforce the wool value chain by ensuring authenticity and quality assurance.
According to Rout, the certification system incorporates a digital traceability mechanism, with QR-coded labels enabling consumers to verify the authenticity of products. He explained that this feature is aimed at addressing the widespread issue of counterfeit goods, where synthetic fibres are often misrepresented as premium wool or pashmina in both domestic and international markets.
Industry stakeholders have responded positively to the initiative. Mridula Jain, president of the Ludhiana Shawl Club, observed that while international benchmarks such as Woolmark remain the global gold standard, their high costs have historically limited access for Indian producers. She stated that the introduction of an indigenous certification system at a nominal fee would help build consumer trust and improve market competitiveness.
The certification is being offered at a significantly lower cost, with a fee of Rs. 10,000 (US $106.46) for a five-year period, making it accessible to a wider base of manufacturers and artisans.
Ludhiana has been identified as one of six pilot clusters under the programme, alongside key textile centres including Surat and Varanasi. The initiative forms part of India’s broader strategy to scale up textile exports and achieve its 2030 targets.
In addition to traditional wool products, the Textiles Committee indicated that it is exploring the development of sustainable fibres derived from alternative sources such as banana and lotus plants, signalling a shift towards innovation and eco-friendly materials within the sector.
Source: https://apparelresources.com/