New Delhi, Oct 22 (IANS) Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms will reduce costs and broaden markets for Ladakh’s artisans, farmers, and tourism operators, and safeguard local crafts, the government said on Wednesday.

Rate cuts from 12 per cent to 5 per cent will enhance the competitiveness and affordability of authentic Pashmina, handwoven woollens, Thangka paintings, and apricot and sea buckthorn products, an official statement said.

The GST cut could enhance exports of Pashmina wool from the Changthang region, sustaining the livelihood of over 10,000 nomadic herders. The GST reduction is expected to boost the competitiveness of authentic Ladakhi pashmina against imported or machine-made alternatives, the release said.

Production costs for handwoven woollens, Namda rugs in Leh and Karg

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