Leh: Chairman, CEC Advocate Tashi Gyalson, in the presence of Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, chaired a meeting with Councillors from Changthang and representatives from WWF-India and the Centre for Pastoralism (CFP).
The meeting focused on key conservation and livelihood initiatives in Changthang, including a visioning exercise in the Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, livelihood training programs, and measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.
WWF-India presented findings from its visioning exercise conducted across 16 villages through 26 community consultations, assessing conservation priorities, sustainable rangeland management, and biodiversity protection. CFP complemented this by conducting assessments in the Durbuk Sub-Division.
The meeting also highlighted the completion of a month-long livelihood training program across 10 villages, leading to seven months of continuous training in Nyoma and Durbuk.
This initiative focused on handloom weaving, value addition, and enterprise development, resulting in the establishment of seven micro-enterprises. Women participants showcased their woven Pashmina shawls and requested continued support for 2025.
WWF-India also updated CEC and the Councillors on human wildlife conflict mitigation efforts, including predator proof chain-link corrals, flashlights, and Fox Lights, with a shared commitment to expanding these measures.
CEC Tashi Gyalson commended WWF-India for its dedicated efforts and acknowledged that its documentation aligns closely with the vision of the Hill Council.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting this vision document, recognizing its importance in guiding future policies for the newly established district of Changthang.Additionally,he emphasized that LAHDC Leh has been actively promoting sustainable practices while framing policies for Changthang.
He highlighted the Council’s special efforts to protect and preserve traditional practices, explaining that the Council Subsidy Schemes have been designed with a special focus on Changthang to support local livelihoods.
He further stated that the GI tag for Pashmina was pursued to promote Pashmina production and sustain the region’s nomadic lifestyle. The long-awaited establishment of a Dehairing Plant was described as a milestone achievement for the people of Changthang, particularly those working with livestock.
Special attention has been given to self help groups, ensuring they receive the necessary support to strengthen economic opportunities. Additionally, the Changthang Development Package and the Vibrant Village Programme have been formulated specifically to promote sustainable development while preserving the region’s unique cultural and environmental heritage.
The meeting was attended by Chushul Councillor Konchok Stanzin, Nyoma Councillor Ishey Spalzang, and Korzok Councillor Karma Namdak. WWF India was represented by Rohit Rattan, Rigzin Dawa, and Padma Dolkar, while Chamba Chetan represented CFP and SHG members from different parts of Changthang were also present.
