Tourism Breaking News
The Kargil Campus of the University of Ladakh hosted a remarkable programme to commemorate International Mountain Day on 11 December 2024. The event, themed around sustainability and the preservation of Ladakh’s unique mountain ecosystems, featured renowned filmmaker and environmental advocate, Stanzin Dorjai (Gya), Founder and Director of the Himalayan Film House, as the special guest and keynote speaker.
Organised collaboratively by Department of Environmental Science, Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh and Department of Travel and Tourism Management, Government Degree College, Kargil, Ladakh, the event commenced with a warm welcome and traditional Ladakhi khatak presentation, followed by the national anthem setting an auspicious tone. Dr Mohd Salim, Coordinator, Biodiversity Research Centre, opened the event with a compelling welcome address. He underscored the urgent need for collective action to safeguard Ladakh’s mountains and glaciers, given their unparalleled beauty and vulnerability to climate change.
Prof. Disket Angmo, Principal, GDC, Kargil, UT Ladakh was not present at the event due to prior engagements. She displayed her appreciation and gratitude for the invitation virtually.
A major highlight of the programme was the screening of the award-winning documentary “Jungwa: The Broken Balance”, directed by Dorjai. This powerful film, previously showcased at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 21) in Paris, captivated the audience with its exploration of the delicate balance between human life and nature in Ladakh. Following the screening, Dorjai provided an insightful commentary on the documentary, eloquently connecting its themes to Ladakh’s traditional culture and the profound interdependence of its people and the environment.
During an interactive session, Dorjai reflected on the serenity of the Himalayas and shared the philosophical undertones of his work, including the concept of karma. His address left a lasting impression, inspiring students and faculty alike to think critically about sustainable practices and cultural preservation.
In his address, Dr Mehboob Ali, Incharge Administration, expressed deep gratitude to Dorjai for his impactful participation. He lauded Dorjai’s contributions to Ladakh and proposed collaborations with his foundation to further sustainable development initiatives in the region. Dr Mehboob emphasised the importance of equipping students with the skills to address climate change challenges and foster sustainable development, particularly in Ladakh, where the effects of environmental change are acutely felt.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Er. Raveesh Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Travel and Tourism Management, Government Degree College, Kargil, UT Ladakh. He expressed his gratitude to the organisers, participants, and special guests for their contributions and shared his personal reflections on Ladakh’s cultural richness and the importance of such initiatives.
Finally, Dr Mohd Issa, Assistant Professor, Environmental Science, closed the event by emphasising the programme’s overarching message: the urgent need for collective efforts to preserve Ladakh’s natural and cultural heritage in the face of environmental challenges.
The event was a resounding success, leaving participants inspired and more aware of the critical role they play in shaping a sustainable future for Ladakh and beyond.
