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Answer: The correct answer to the question Pashmina is obtained from a variety of is option D. Goat.
Explanation:
The Pashmina goat, also known as the Changthangi or Changra goat, is a special breed native to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh in northern India. These goats are primarily reared by the Changpa nomads, who live in the cold desert of the Changthang plateau, located at altitudes above 13,000 feet. The extreme climate, with temperatures plunging below -20°C, enables these goats to develop a thick undercoat of fine wool to protect themselves from the harsh environment.
This undercoat, known as pashm, is what gives rise to the luxurious wool called Pashmina. Pashmina wool is one of the finest and warmest natural fibers in the world, with a diameter of just 12–16 microns—much finer than regular sheep wool. Each goat produces only 80–170 grams of pashm annually, which makes the fiber extremely rare and valuable.
The process of collecting Pashmina is labor-intensive. It involves combing the goat by hand during the spring moulting season, rather than shearing. The raw wool is then cleaned, spun, and woven by skilled artisans, often by hand, especially in Kashmir, which is renowned for producing the finest Pashmina shawls.
Pashmina products include shawls, scarves, and stoles that are cherished worldwide for their softness, warmth, and elegance. True Pashmina is lightweight, breathable, and naturally insulating, making it ideal for cold climates.
However, Pashmina production faces challenges due to climate change, changing lifestyles of nomads, and the influx of machine-made imitations. Despite this, Pashmina continues to be a symbol of luxury and cultural heritage in India.
In recent years, efforts have been made to protect the authenticity of Pashmina through GI (Geographical Indication) tagging and supporting traditional artisans and goat herders.
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