Srinagar, July 30: Jammu and Kashmir produces around 8.6 million kg of wool annually, with the government focusing on scientific processing, value addition and better marketing to strengthen the sheep and wool sector. The meeting was informed that J&K has one of the largest sheep populations in the country, with around 43 lakh sheep. The average wool production stands at about 1.9 kg per sheep annually, with nearly 30 per cent of the wool consumed within the Union Territory while the remaining quantity is marketed outside. Officials informed the meeting that 431 wool shearing units have been established under the Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS) and HADP with 50 per cent subsidy support. These units are aimed at improving shearing efficiency, enhancing wool quality and ensuring better animal welfare.