Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk and his supporters organized a one-day rally, observed as "Thank You Day," to express gratitude to the United Nations for declaring 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation (IYGP). The rally also acknowledged the Government of India for addressing Ladakh’s environmental concerns and commended local leaders for their efforts in preserving the region’s culture and securing a sustainable future.

Approximately 300-400 supporters and volunteers, led by Wangchuk, commenced the rally from Leh Gate, carrying a chunk of ice from the fast-receding Khardung La glacier. The ice symbolized the urgent need for glacier preservation and highlighted the impacts of climate change. It will be presented to the United Nations as a gesture of gratitude and a call for global action on environmental preservation. Volunteers chanted slogans such as "Save Ladakh, Save the Himalayas, Save the Planet," while also recognizing efforts made for Ladakh’s welfare.

As part of the rally, the ice was taken to various religious sites in Leh, where prayers and blessings were offered. At the Church, Sonam Parvez, head of the Christian community, emphasized the importance of environmental action, calling the ice one of God’s creations. He expressed confidence that the United Nations would understand the significance of this symbolic gesture. Parvez also highlighted the ongoing water crisis in various parts of the country.
Wangchuk then took the ice to Leh Chowkhang Vihara, where His Eminence Khamtak Rinpoche addressed the gathering. He stressed the importance of environmental consciousness, warning that human activities have led to wildfires, floods, and other natural disasters. He described the initiative as an apolitical effort and urged people to avoid misinformation.

The ice was subsequently taken to the Jamia Masjid in Leh, where prayers were recited as per ritual. Ayesha Malo, President of Anjuman-e-Moin-ul-Islam’s women’s wing, praised Wangchuk’s dedication and urged the public to support leaders engaging in discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Finally, the ice was welcomed at Imam Bargah, Leh, where Sheikh emphasized the significance of water bodies, including glaciers, which are rapidly melting due to climate change. He expressed hope that this symbolic gesture would raise global awareness about the need for glacier protection.

The rally concluded at Leh Market, where Wangchuk addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to all stakeholders involved in Ladakh’s environmental movement. He acknowledged contributions from local leaders, including APEX members led by Thupstan Chhewang and Chhering Dorjey, Ladakh Gompa Association members led by Gen Wangdus, the Congress Party led by Rigzin Jora, CEC LAHDC Leh Tashi Gyaltson, Aam Aadmi Party, Anjuman Imamia led by Ashraf Ali Barcha, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam led by Dr. Qayum, the Christian community led by Sonam Parvez, members of the Kargil Democratic Alliance, women leaders, volunteers of the hunger strike and pad yatra, and village representatives.

He also thanked the Government of India for considering Ladakh’s concerns and expressed hope for meaningful outcomes from the upcoming discussions with the MHA.

"The declaration of the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation (IYGP) by the UN demonstrates that environmental concerns are being acknowledged globally. The ice from the melting Khardung La glacier will be presented to the Mayor of New York City and the UN headquarters," Wangchuk stated.