Leh: Chief Secretary of Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, has highlighted the deep-rooted civilisational and ecological relevance of Ladakh while addressing a significant academic gathering in Leh.
Delivering the convocation address at the first convocation ceremony of Sindhu Central University held at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Choglamsar, Chief Secretary of Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, underscored the deep cultural and historical relevance of the university’s name, “Sindhu.”
Describing “Sindhu” as more than just a name, Dr. Kotwal referred to it as a living symbol of South Asia’s ancient civilisational identity, representing a continuity of values, heritage, and knowledge systems. “The name Sindhu connects us to our roots. It echoes the spirit of a civilisation that flourished on the banks of the mighty Indus and continues to shape our cultural consciousness,” he said.
He lauded the university’s leadership for the thoughtful and symbolic naming, calling it a bold and visionary step that reinforces Ladakh’s identity in the broader academic and historical landscape of India.
Speaking on the environmental and ecological context of Ladakh, Dr. Kotwal highlighted the region’s fragile ecosystem and its unique climatic conditions, particularly the absence of a monsoon system and heavy dependence on snow-fed water sources. “We are a cold desert. Our challenges are distinct, and our solutions must be too,” he remarked.
He praised Sindhu Central University for introducing academic programs that align with the Prime Minister’s vision for a carbon-neutral Ladakh, noting that such courses would not only enrich academic discourse but also provide practical frameworks for sustainable development.
Dr. Kotwal also emphasized the need for context-specific education and research, especially in areas like renewable energy, mountain ecology, and sustainable resource management. “Our terrain demands resilience, our environment demands respect, and our future demands innovation,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the institution’s trajectory, Dr. Kotwal hoped that Sindhu Central University would emerge as one of India’s leading centres of learning, contributing to the region’s development not only through academics but also through impactful research and policy engagement.
He congratulated the graduating students, their families, and the faculty for their efforts and achievements, encouraging them to become ambassadors of sustainability and cultural pride wherever they go.
