Changthang, as a landscape, has witnessed multiple generations of youths, but this generation stands apart due to the social, economic, and geopolitical changes they've experienced in their lifetimes. The first successful beneficiaries of modern education have brought profound changes to their perspectives and social outlook, both as individuals and as a community. Thus, discussing this generation is essential, especially as modern life increasingly disconnects people from their roots.

When observing the youths of the Changpa community, one can notice a higher tendency among Tibetan youths to remain engaged in pastoralism with their parents compared to their Ladakhi Changpa counterparts. Every winter, when schools in Ladakh are on vacation, Tibetan youths continue their pastoral activities, while Ladakhi Changpa youths, even those pursuing higher education, often step away from it. The reasons for this are varied. Tibetans are culturally rooted and encourage their children to embrace the essence of Tibetan culture, exemplified by traditions like the Jabro dance, which is performed every Wednesday in Tibetan communities globally.

Ladakhi Changpa youths, on the other hand, face different challenges. They often compare themselves to their peers in Leh, who are more educated and generally have greater access to employment and social mobility. As a result, many of them develop less appreciation for pastoralism. Additionally, Ladakhi Changpa youths have more opportunities in government services, business, and other sectors, which pulls them away from pastoral life.

Changpas have historically been looked down upon by the people of Leh, viewed as "primitive" or "dirty" due to their way of living with animals. Education, once inaccessible due to the nomadic lifestyle, was previously an unaffordable luxury for Changpas. However, with the establishment of two residential schools in the region, education has become more accessible. Initially, Changpas with just an 8th-grade education were able to join the Indian Army with the Ladakh Scouts Regiment. Over time, the number of graduates increased, leading to greater job opportunities in both government and non-government sectors. This opened new doors for the Changpa community, bringing them closer to the aspirations of the Leh people and providing them with more secure livelihoods and stable lives.

However, this progress has also led to a growing disconnection from pastoralism. Today, few young people are engaged in pastoralism, except for those who were not sent to school. While these changes have undoubtedly improved lives, they have also created a divide between the older, pastoral generation and the younger, more education-oriented one. This shift has helped foster a sense of pride among the youth, as many now take on white-collar jobs across various sectors.

Externally, these changes are often seen as progress, and the opening of tourism in Changthang has played a significant role in transforming the landscape. The influx of tourists from other parts of Ladakh has led to greater commercial interest in the region, particularly around tourist attractions like Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri Lake, the Hanle Dark Sky, and Umling La. Approximately 70-80% of tourists visiting Ladakh come to Changthang. This exposure has increased interaction between the Changpa community and the broader Ladakhi population, further driving economic empowerment. Consequently, areas where tourism is more prominent have become more economically prosperous.

This economic empowerment has also led to a shift in how Changpa youth view their identity. A decade ago, many youths were hesitant to be called Changpa in front of their peers. Today, they are increasingly embracing their heritage, drawing inspiration from the words in Game of Thrones: “Never forget what you are. The rest of the world will not. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to hurt you.”

However, despite these changes, pastoralism has seen a sharp decline. The way forward is a significant challenge for the youth of Changthang. I firmly believe that the region, with its rich biodiversity and vast landscapes, is ideally suited for pastoralism and animal farming as revenue-generating activities. If the youth take it up, they can continue the traditions of their parents, but with the added benefits of social and technological innovation.

For a long time, I have advocated for the use of drone shepherding as a technological intervention to ease pastoral work and make it a data-driven practice. Upon closer examination, I have come to realize that while pastoralism remains economically viable when the herd size exceeds 300, it is the social aspects of pastoralism that are pushing people away. The changing dynamics have made pastoralism less socially desirable, and in the long term, while the economic activity may persist, the social aspect of pastoralism is at risk.

The future of pastoralism in Changthang will require a blend of tradition and innovation, and it is the youth of today who must chart the course for this evolving landscape.

(The writer is a Project Head at Centre for Pastoralism. You can send your views and comment at cham.tse300@gmail.com)