An inception workshop for the ongoing project on the “Creation of Eco-Smart Village Model” was held at Abduz, Leh, on May 5. The initiative is supported by the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS) and jointly implemented by Development Alternatives and the Ladakh Ecological Development Group (LEDeG).

The project aims to promote sustainable development in Leh district through integrated efforts in eco-tourism, sustainable infrastructure, and solid waste management.

A major highlight of the workshop was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), LEDeG, and Development Alternatives, formalizing the commitment of all stakeholders to the project.

The workshop was graced by Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Leh, as the chief guest. Other dignitaries included Councillor Tsering Namgyal, Leader of Opposition; Councillor Upper Leh Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag; Jigmet Takpa, former Joint Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; ADDC Leh Sonam Nurboo; ADC Leh Ghulam Mohd; Additional Director, Tourism Padma Angmo; Eshey Tondup, Executive Director and President of ALHGHA; General Secretary of ALTOA; Mohak Gupta, Development Alternatives; Asma Yousuf, Project Manager, LEDeG; along with officials from Tourism, PHED, Municipal Committee Leh, and other line departments. Community representatives and Gobas from villages including Leh, Alchi, and Markha were also present.

The event began with a welcome address by Eshey Tondup, who introduced the workshop’s purpose. Mohak Gupta provided an overview of the project’s objectives and its importance for high-altitude Himalayan villages. Asma Yousuf presented the findings of a baseline assessment, highlighting current conditions related to infrastructure, tourism, and waste management in the target villages. She also outlined key deliverables and the next steps in project implementation.

A consultation session followed, where participants shared insights and raised important queries. Speaking during the session, Jigmet Takpa emphasized that ecotourism must balance the enjoyment of natural beauty with technological development and cultural preservation. He cited Markha Valley as a model example, where local communities actively maintain cleanliness. However, he stressed the need for behavioral change at the grassroots level for lasting environmental impact.

Additional Director of Tourism Padma Angmo echoed this sentiment, calling for plastic bans in key villages and greater integration with Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Institutions. She advocated linking villages with the waste segregation mandate of the Swachh Bharat Mission Phase II, noting that awareness is crucial for changing public behavior.

CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson highlighted LAHDC’s ongoing green initiatives, such as subsidies for solar water heaters and electric vehicles, and mentioned the success of the Tsangda waste management project in reducing carbon footprints. He also proposed the formation of an autonomous body for waste management, aiming to streamline and enhance the region’s environmental efforts.

CEC Gyalson applauded the increasing community participation in cleanliness drives and encouraged sustained public involvement to advance Ladakh’s environmental goals.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks by Development Alternatives, with all stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to building eco-smart, climate-resilient villages across Ladakh.