¼ÛT.¾.hÐGÅ.Gż.ºHá¼ü REG. No. JKENG/2013/55210 Rs. 15/-

R EACH VOL. 7 ISSUE 20 PAGES 8 L ADAKH B ULLETIN November 1-15, 2019 In Conversation with Reach Expert talk Nawang Thinles Lonpo 5 UT Ladakh 4

Find us on FACEBOOK: Reach Ladakh Follow us on twitter: ReachLadakhBulletin Visit our website: www.reachladakh.com Brief News Block Development Council polls: 8 Independents, 5th standard boy sodomised by youth in 8 BJP candidates win in Students' association rallies, seeks justice DISCLAIMER 2 other independent candidates join BJP Reach Ladakh does not take re- sponsibility for the contents of the Advertisements Display/classified published in this newspaper. The paper does not endorse the same. Readers are requested to verify the contents on their own before acting there upon.

Three-day Ladakh Literature Festival held in Leh Leh: The first-ever three days long La- dakh Literature Festival held for three Students protesting demanding justice to the victim. days in Leh starting from 29th to 31st October. The Ladakh Literature Fes- Stanzin Dasal & Tsering Dolkar couldn’t able to trace him. In the evening, me and family members were going to a tival 2019 was jointly organised by Leh: In a gruesome incident, a 5th stan- relative place when on our way my son J&K Tourism, Ladakh Autonomous dard boy was allegedly sodomised by a recognised the bike parked at the roadside Hill Development Council (LAHDC) 29-year-old man in Leh on October 23. Leh, Ladakh Media & Art Organisation of . We caught hold of him there and (LAMO) and All Ladakh Tours Opera- The accused Muzafar Ali R/O Chuchot handed over to the police”, he added. Rinchen Angmo Chumikchan • Congress fielded 1 candidate but Yokma was arrested on the same day tors’ Association (ALTOA). Inaugurat- When asked about the case to Sargun lost from Saspol Block evening. The accused was booked under ing the festival, Gyal P Wangyal, CEC, Leh: In the first-ever Block Develop- Shukla, SSP, Leh, she said, “The case FIR no. 143/ 19 section 5 (M)/6 of JK LAHDC, Leh said that the festival will ment Council (BDC) elections in Leh • Independents played a very import- is under investigation and the accused POCSO and 377 RPC. help in preserving the art and culture. district, 8 Independents, 8 BJP candi- ant role in BDC elections in whole is booked under the strongest section. I dates have won; while in District, Jammu & , 217 Indepen- Around 110 speakers and performers Narrating the whole incident, father of have assured the parents of the victim 11 Independents, 4 BJP candidates have dents, 81 BJP members elected took part in this literary festival. the victim said, “My child was coming also and we will be doing our best to get won the BDC elections on October 24. • There are thirty-one blocks in the back from school after taking the exam- the justice delivered.” The BDC election was clearly a contest ination. He took a lift on his way from Ladakh region, and the BJP won 11 All the business establishments remained between BJP and independents. the accused who was on a motorcycle. and Independents in 20. closed for one day and a peaceful protest When the small boy asked him to stop HIGHLIGHTS: lead by Student Organization of Unified Leh district has 16 blocks, 652 Panches while reaching nearby home the man • The BDC election was clearly a con- Ladakh (SOUL) and All Ladakh Student and 92 Sarpanches. Five blocks are re- pretended unheard, drove further and the test between BJP and independents. Association on October 28 at Main Ba- served for women which include Chush- incident happened”. • The BJP had fielded 13 candidates ot, Khaltse, Nimmo, Rupsho and Singey- zaar. in Leh district. However, only 8 can- “My son told us the whole story after Reach Ladakh's show 'The ...Continues on Page 2 didates managed to win. ...Continues on Page 2 which I went to look out for the person but Reality' Episode #4 will be releasing on November 9 (Sat- urday) TIMING: 4:00-5:00PM on our YouTube channel Reach Ladakh. Nepal and Buddhist Circuit Guest: Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, MP, Ladakh Tour 2020 Stay tuned and subscribe to our channel. Correction and clarification ₹ 61,000 It is the policy of ‘Reach Ladakh Bul- (Per person sharing) letin’ to correct significant errors as soon as possible. Please specify the edition, date, news item or the article. Leh - Delhi - Patna - Bodhgaya - Rajgir-Nalanda - You can contact at 9858394403 or Vaishali- Sarnath - Kushinagar - Sravasti - Lumbini- email at [email protected]. All communication must carry the full Maratika Cave - Stakmo Luschin - Delhi - Leh postal address and telephone numbers. • Day 01 Leh to Delhi/Patna by Flight & Patna to Bodhgaya • Day 13: Monasteries visit and late evening after dinner by Bus. Arrive Bodhgaya by evening. (140 Km, 5 hrs) drive to Lumbini (166 Kms,5 Hrs 30 Min) • Day 02: Bodhgaya Monasteries Visit • Day 14: Arrive Lumbini by Morning,rest till after- Reach Ladakh Bulletin • Day 03: Monasteries Visit (Rajgir & Nalanda) noon,after lunch proceed for Monasteries Visit • Day 04: Monasteries Visit (Vaishali) • Day 15: Monasteries Visit and late evening after dinner Owner, Publisher & Printer: • Day 05:Monasteries Visit and late evening after dinner drive to Kathmandu (294 kms,9 Hrs) Tundup Dorjey drive to Sarnath (263 Kms, 8 hrs.) • Day 16: Arrive Kathmandu by Morning,rest till after- Editor: Rinchen Angmo Chumikchan • Day 06: Arrive Sarnath by Morning,rest till after- noon,after lunch proceed for Monasteries Visit noon,after lunch proceed for Monasteries Visit • Day 17: Monasteries Visit Assistant Editor: Stanzin Dasal • Day 07: Sarnath Monasteries • Day 18: Monasteries Visit Reporter: Tsering Dolker • Day 08: Sarnath Monasteries • Day 19: Monasteries Visit • Day 09: Monasteries visit and late evening after dinner • Day 20: Monasteries Visit Sales & Marketing: Tsering Morup drive to Kushinagar (O/N) (222 Kms, 6 hrs.) • Day 21: Freeday for Shopping Tour Duration-26 Nights / 27 Days Includes • Day 10: Arrive Kushinagar by Morning,rest till after- • Day 22: Freeday for Shopping Layout: Raul Chhokkun From 2 to 27 January, 2020 • Accommodation on sharing basis. noon,after lunch proceed for Monasteries Visit • Day 23: Kathmandu to Delhi Published at: • All meals (Breakfast + Pack / Hot Lunch + Dinner) • Day 11: Monasteries Visit and late evening after dinner • Day 24: Freeday for Shopping Reach Ladakh, Skara Yokma, Airport • Flight tickets from Leh to Delhi to Patna, drive to Sravasti (238 kms,6 Hrs) • Day 25: Freeday for Shopping Road, near Councillor Quarter Kathmandu to Delhi & Delhi to Leh • Day 12: Arrive Sravasti by Morning,rest till after- • Day 26: Delhi to Leh Contact: 9858394403 • All transport by Non-AC 30 seater coach. noon,after lunch proceed for Monasteries Visit • Monk guide, 1 male & 1 female tour escort Printed at: Overland Escape Kaizen Offset Pvt Ltd, • Cook and helper throughout the tour • Tea, Coffee, Snacks and entrances. Skara Yokma, Leh Ladakh. Contact person: Mr Kunga Namgyal 3 DISDC Complex, Okhla Industrial Telephone: 252105 / 252108 / 252110. Mobile: 9858394404 Area, Phase – I, New Delhi – 20 • Travel insurance, GST 2 | November 1-15, 2019 Fortnightly News Reach Ladakh Bulletin

Block Development Council polls: 8 Independents, 11 Independents, 4 BJP candidates win in BDC elections in Kargil Reach Ladakh Correspondent 8 BJP candidates win in Leh district Kargil: With total polling per- which 827 electors (565 males and 262 females) centage of 98.34%, Block De- ...Continued from Page 1 cast their votes. The poll percentage for the Leh velopment Council Election was concluded peacefully on October lalok. Leh has 16 blocks, out of which 15 blocks go district was 97.30 per cent, and 98.34 per cent for 24 in . for contest, as one candidate Stanzin Yangdol from Kargil district. Singey Lalok area has already been elected uncon- However, in a press conference on October 25, In , Sodh, Karsha and tested. She was the lone candidate of the Singaylal- Dorjay Angchuk, President, BJP, Leh, informed Lungnaq blocks, BJP won 4 ok block which consisted of Photoksar, Lingshed, that Konchok Phuntsog from block and seats, Tsering Nurboo, Zakir Dipling and village. Jigmet Yontan from Rong block have joined the Hussain, Lobzang Namgyal and Stanzin Yangzom of BJP won by In Leh, a total of 36 candidates, including 10 fe- BJP. 13, 1, 1 and 5 votes respectively. Voters of Kargil district standing in the queue to cast their votes male and 26 male candidates, were in the fray for The Congress, the National Conference and the the 15 BDC seats. The total voters in Leh district PDP stayed away from the elections, the first to be The independents remained vic- gole, Sodh and blocks. BDC elections, 7 observers ap- were 704 in 15 blocks out of which 685 voters (468 held after the withdrawal of Article 370 that grant- torious on the seats in rest of the While polling percentage in rest pointed by the Election Author- male and 236 female) cast their votes. ed special status to the State. In J&K Block De- 11 blocks, Hajira Banoo won the Barsoo seat by 5 votes, Najuma of the blocks recorded; Drass ity, 7 zonal and 15 sector mag- In Kargil, a total of 38 candidates, including 14 velopment Council polls 217 Independents, 81 BJP Banoo Bhimbat by 10 votes, 98.21 %, Kargil 97.98%, Karsha istrates, 30 Returning Officers female and 24 male candidates, were in the fray members elected with 98.3 per cent voter turnout. Noor Muhammad Drass by 1 94.12%, Lungnaq 95.83%, Pash- (ROs) and Assistant Returning for election for the 15 BDC seats in the district for vote, Khatija Banoo Kargil by kum 93.75%, 98.92%, Officers (AROs), 54 polling per- 3 votes, Murad Ali Lotchum by Shakar Chiktan 97.37%, Tai sonnel including Presiding and S.No Name of the block Candidates Total votes Party Affiliation 1 vote by draw of lot, Pashkum Suru 96.43% and TSG 98.82%. Polling Officers and security 1 Skurbuchan Tashi Yangskit 18 BJP personnel in adequate numbers seat Zakir Hussain by 5 votes, Foolproof security and other ar- were deployed on duties. 2 Khaltse Stanzin Chusket 31 Independent Sankoo Mehdi by 1 vote, Sha- rangements in all the 15 blocks kar Chiktan Syeda Banoo by 2 3 Saspol Chhering Phuntsog 17 BJP in the district was made by the Total of 38 candidates including votes, Tai Suru Amina Banoo by District Panchayat Election Offi- 14 female and 24 male candi- 4 Nimmo Rigzin Chorol 28 Independent 6 votes, TSG Haji Tahir Hussain cer to ensure free, fair and ethical dates were in the fray for elec- 5 Leh Skalzang Dorjey 36 BJP by 3 votes and Zanskar Stanzin elections including observance tion for the 15 BDC seats in the Sandup by 10 votes 6 Chushot Saira Bano 41 BJP of the Model Code of Conduct. district for which 827 electors 100% polling recorded from Bar- (565 males and 262 females) cast 7 Thiksay Tsewang Paldan 35 Independent To ensure smooth conduct of soo, Bhimbat, Lotchum, Shar- their votes. 8 Kharu Dechen Dorjay 17 Independent 9 Durbuk Konchok Phuntsog 18 Independent 10 Rong Jigmet Yountan 22 Independent BJP gets 10 BDC seats; two independent candidates join in 11 Rupsho Jigmet Namdol 14 BJP 12 Urgain Chodon 14 BJP 13 Stanzin Gyatso 46 BJP 14 Panamik Lobzang Gyatso 29 Independent 15 Ghulam Hyder 25 Independent

Hill Council welcomes Commissioner-Secretary Rigzin Samphel to Leh

Newly elected BDC chairperson along with the party members at BJP office Leh.

Stanzin Dasal Welcoming the newly joined independent candi- Leh: Newly elected Block Development Council dates in the party, Dorjay Angchuk said that they chairpersons of Durbuk, Konchok Phuntsog and have decided to join along with their panches and Jigmet Yontan of Rong joined BJP on October 25. sarpanches of the block for the overall develop- With this move, out of the 16 BDC seats, the party ment of their respective blocks. He hoped that all got 10 seats. other Independent BDC Chairpersons too will join BJP for the development as both the Hill Council A press conference was convened in the party of- and Centre Government are run by the BJP. fice by Dorjay Angchuk, President, BJP Leh. He criticized Congress party Leh for claiming the Dorjay Angchuk said that the abrogation of Article win of the independent candidate in the BDC elec- 370 and the declaration of status tion on their support. He further alleged that the par- for Ladakh will open up the road to the develop- ty got no candidates to fight the election on Congress ment of the region. He said the Block Development ticket except Saspol which they lost. Reach Ladakh Correspondent of his land and expressed his happiness on getting Council election is held in the state for the first All the elected BDC chairperson were felicitated this chance after 15 years. He said that Indian Ad- time which will further strengthen and empower Leh: Hill Council, Leh under the chairmanship of on the same day. ministrative Service officers are Civil Servants and the Panchayati Raj system. Gyal P. Wangyal, CEC welcomed Commissioner are bound to serve the public with a sensitive and Secretary to the Government, Ladakh Affairs De- compassionate attitude. partment, Rigzin Samphel on October 23 at Coun- cil Secretariat. He assured to serve Ladakh at the best of his ca- 5th standard boy sodomised by youth in Leh pacity in execution of policies and programmes of Tsering Sandup, Deputy Chairman; Konchok Stan- ...Continued from Page 1 law should be taken against the person who is in- both the Council at grass root level under civil lim- zin, EC Education, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, DC, volved in such crime". itations. He said that Ladakh has very peculiar and While addressing the gathering, Rigzin Dorjey, Leh; Councilors and staff of the Council Secretariat geographical constraints and to address the prob- President SOUL said, “It is heartbreaking to see He further assured to leave no stone unturned and were present. lems besides effective governance, close coordina- that limited people and students turned out today to personally follow up on the case. Gyal P Wangyal congratulated Rigzin Samphel for tion and local wisdom are needed. to protest against the unfortunate incident but when Ibtesum Iqbal, Vice president SOUL expressed the getting the opportunity to serve Ladakh as Com- there is a celebration or rally for any other issues He hoped that his work experience in UP and J&K importance of imparting sex education to the chil- missioner/ Secretary. He said that his presence people join in masses.” Govt. will help him to serve UT Ladakh effectively. dren. She questioned the society that how a student would be highly crucial at a time of transaction of Condemning the incident he said that cases of who is supposed to be the future nation-builder are Ladakh from a Division to Union Territory. Earlier, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal,MP Ladakh also POCSO, rape, molestation, and many other crim- facing such a monstrous act at their young age? welcomed him and expressed great hopes that under Rigzin Samphel is the second IAS officer from La- inal cases are increasing every year. He alleged his supervision the administrative establishment of Gyal P Wangyal, CEC, Hill Council, Leh, repre- dakh to serve the region after former Chief Secre- that the culprits are sent to the prison but with daily Ladakh UT will be fair and effective in all ways. sentatives of religious youth wings, students also tary, J&K Govt., C. Phuntsog. meal and leisure life they come out on bail. spoke on the occasion and demanded strict action Rigzin Samphel from village is a 2003 UP Gyal P Wangyal expressed great hopes that his ad- Recalling the past incidents of molestation and against the culprit. Cadre IAS Officer. He has served in Uttar Pradesh ministrative experience would immensely benefit rape of a minor, he expressed resentment and un- and as Secretary Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakhi at the inception of UT Ladakh. He further fortunate towards delay in delivering justice to the Section 377RPC: Unnatural Offences Commissioner Secretary to the Government, Lada- added that Rigzin Samphel will be a connecting victims. kh Affairs Department. To oversee the transition of Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order bridge between Hill Council and Lieutenant Gov- Ladakh region as the youngest Union Territory, the Stressing on a stringent action against the accused, of nature with any man, woman or animal shall be punished ernor. He expressed positive hopes that his role will Jammu and Kashmir government has shifted the Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, MP Ladakh said, “Such with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either take the new Ladakh towards prosperity. Ladakh Affairs Department along with its Adminis- heinous crime in the society shouldn’t be tolerated description for a term which may extend to ten years and shall Rigzin Samphel, Commissioner Secretary said that trative Secretary Rigzin Samphel to Leh in an order at all. Despite any socio-economic condition, faith also be liable to fine. it was his vision and aspiration to serve the people released on 16th October 2019. or how well influential the culprit is, action as per Reach Ladakh Bulletin November 1-15, 2019 | 3

Training on Child Protection Acts held in Leh Jamyang Tsering Namgyal reviews DISHA meet 3-days training programme”. “We all are in a way or the oth- er involved with children and it becomes our moral duty to take note of, guide them and inform the concerned authorities about negative effects that many of our young children are being dragged into by way of peer pressure, depression due to ed- ucation and family, flashy world Reach Ladakh Correspondent Yojna, Swachh Bharat Mission SHA recommendations, directed of materialist importance and Reach Ladakh Correspondent in a society. He said that constitu- Rural, SBM Urban, Rurban, and to prepare estimation for re-de- other factors”, he informed. Leh: To check status and prog- tional acts are formed to safeguard many more were discussed. signing of the sub-way and to sub- Leh: A training programme ress of central government the rights of children where they Child Welfare Committee Leh is mit the estimation to the Council for three days on Juvenile Jus- programme, Jamyang Tsering Gyal P.Wangyal, Chief Execu- have to face various physical and actively working hard towards before October 31 and follow the tice Act 2015, Child Protection Namgyal, MP Ladakh who is tive Councillor talks about the mental challenges. observing, checking, informing directions of the Council. Jamyang Scheme and Protection of Chil- also the Chairman of District importance of identification of the concerned authorities about addressed schemes related to farm- dren from Sexual Offences Act Sunil Kumar, Assistant Direc- Development Coordination and the genuine beneficiaries and the atrocities and substantial ef- ers and stressed on the importance 2012 and (amended) Act 2019 tor NIPCCD Regional Centre Monitoring Committee (DDC- awareness of rural people for fects children are going through. of dissemination of soil education was started on October 22 at DC Mohali said that the training MC) ‘DISHA’, chaired a review exact and proper sharing of per- The department also facilitates information in addition to distribu- office conference hall. will train the stakeholders in the meeting with the members of DI- sonal information during census, physical, mental and economic tion of soil card. implementation of the JJ Act SHA and districts officers of line which will be helpful in forming The training programme was or- assistance to the affected and de- without facing any challenges. department on October 25. policies of the land the people. Under National Health Mission ganised by the National Institute prived children of the society. The training also aims to pro- and recently granted Medical of Public Cooperation and Child Sachin Kumar, Deputy Commis- Chering Dorjey Lakrook, former vide adequate information about Spalzes Angmo, Secretary, Dis- College to Leh district, He also Development Regional Centre sioner, Leh who is also the Mem- minister and MLC said that the the new initiatives, acts and to trict Legal Services Authority directed to submit all the issues Mohali. ber Secretary of the committee people staying in Leh on rent evolve a strategy for structural (DLSA) Leh appreciated the pertaining to post creation, SRO opened the house for discussions since more than 15 years should Stakeholders including officers and functional improvement in employees of Child Protection 202, shortage of staff and other and deliberations on various be identified and included in the and officials of the Integrated the child protection system. Scheme Leh for doing com- important issues and require- centrally sponsored schemes. He schemes. Child Development Scheme mendable work in the district ments. Dr. Konchok Paldan, Chairper- informed stakeholders and line (ICDS), Special Juvenile Unit with limited resources. Jamyang Tsering Namgyal was son Child Welfare Committee departments to works towards Under Integrated Child Devel- of police, Labour, Education, requested to take the requirement Leh said, “As Ladakh is now a Sunil Kumar gave his presenta- implementation of centrally opment Service, Jamyang gave Health, social welfare, Integrated steps of increase in central share Union Territory the central laws tion on the Rights and Challeng- sponsored schemes on ground directions for mass awareness of Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), fund for further effective imple- and acts will be applicable in es of Children in Leh Ladakh level. government schemes especially in NGOs of Leh and stakeholders mentation of solid waste man- our region also and therefore the with Special Focus on Child far-flung areas for pregnant wom- from Kargil district were present. Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, agement under Project Tsangda. POCSO Act 2015 will be appli- Protection. He also spoke about en, lactating mothers and infants. Chairman looks over coordi- Krishna Murthy, Additional Direc- cable in place of J&K POCSO Juvenile Justice (Care and Pro- Under National Rural Drinking nation and monitoring of the Discussing about the Bilas- tor NIPCCD Delhi talked about the Act 2013. The stakeholders will tection of Children) Act 2015: Water Programme, Jamyang di- schemes and also provided his in- pur-Manali-Leh railway-line importance of child protection acts benefit immensely from these Salient Features. rected SE PHE to submit details tervention by reporting issue and project, JTN asked Sachin Ku- of drinking water connection, requirement to higher authorities mar for final completion of allo- linemen, and daily-wagers of the or governing body at the centre. cation of land for office and rest district. houses. He then further stressed Project Tsangda branch to be opened in Kharu “This is the first DISHA review Taking notice of the on-going for completion of the railway meeting after constituting the Reach Ladakh Correspondent work of digitalization of land survey from -Leh. Tsering 17th Lok Sabha”, said Jamyang. records online, Jamyang taking Dorjey Lakrook talking about Kharu: After the successful He further said that the commit- the example of Uttar Pradesh the strategic and national impor- implementation of ‘Project tee recommendations should be suggested for adoption of their tance of the area also stressed on Tsangda’ in , Diskit, uploaded on the online portal and system of ‘translator’ who can early completion of works. Nimoo, Khaltse, Pangong and every point of recommendation translate the entire records from Chuchot villages, the centre is all should be followed up until its Progress report of all schemes Urdu to English and then further set to open up in Kharu market. final implementation on ground. was presented in detail and var- can be translated to tri-language. ious other schemes were dis- An awareness programme on the The issue of rising illegal con- Under Deen-Dayal Upadhyay cussed during the meeting. project was conducted for the struction of buildings on gov- Gramin Jyoti Yojna, Jamyang di- shopkeepers of Kharu market ernment lands was discussed, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal re- rected submission list of remain- and villagers on October 26 at Jamyang stresses to take deci- quested departments and con- ing places for electrification in BDO office, Kharu. sion as per the guidelines. cerned members to highlight the guidance and leadership ensur- the project, he said that besides detail. He informed that the elec- issues and follow up with CEC Gyal P Wangyal, CEC informed ing maximum participation of scientific disposal and manage- Status, progress and issues of tricity timing will be increased and DC and upload the meeting that to establish the project people. ment of garbage, employment is 42 various schemes like MGN- by two-hours in valley. Tsangda centre in Kharu, Eicher also generated. on DISHA portal. He assured Kharu market which is bisected REGA, Deen Dayal Gramin Group of Foundation has agreed The on-going sub-way construc- that all the noted issues would be by Manali national highway also Kaushal Vikas Yojna, PMGSY, to provide ₹30 lakh under its Tsering Paldan, ACD Leh high- tion in front of SNM hospital Leh, taken up at central level for their in the way of famous Pangong Social Welfare, PM Shehri Vi- CSR programme and ₹ 20 lakh lighting the success story of Jamyang, as per committee of DI- redress in phased manner. Lake and monastery is kas Yojna, PM Gramin Aawas has been sanctioned by Hill Project Tsangda that started in experiencing garbage problem Council. December 2017 at Choglamsar, since many years. appealed the people to fully in- He appealed the shopkeepers of volved in making this project Konchok Stanzin, EC Rural De- Hill Council, Leh welcomes Govt. decision to open Kharu market, villagers of Kha- successful, and requested for velopment Department informed ru and Sakti to support Rural proper usage of the dustbin, and that the project will cover Kharu Development Department Leh segregation of garbage at their Siachen for tourists market initially and later as per in the successful implementation home. Reach Ladakh Correspondent capacity and revenue of the same of this project. He said that it is project other surrounding villag- Leh: The Union government the responsibility of President Later, a dustbin was distribut- es will be covered. on 21 October announced that Kharu Market and newly elected ed to the people and screened a documentary film on Project Siachen area is now open to BDC Chairman Kharu to make Talking about the segregation, Tsangda. tourists. Tsering Sandup, Depu- this project successful by their recycle and reuse procedure of ty Chairman, Hill council Leh, who also holds the portfolio of tourism thanked Rajnath Singh, Defense Minister on October 25, Stanzin Chosphel, Councilor Marstelang takes oath while inaugurating Col Chewang Rinchen Bridge over Shayok Reach Ladakh Correspondent River a week before. put continuous efforts since long which can benefit unemployed Leh: New councilor of Martselang constituency, LAHDC, Leh Ministry of Defense announced time to open Siachen belt for youths of Nubra region also. Stanzin Chosphel took oath on October 22 at DC’s Office Con- that Siachen Glaicer, the world’s tourists.He said that this histor- ference Hall. Sandup also expressed concern highest battlefield located at the ic and path breaking decision of over the possibility of overex- The oath of secrecy was administered by Chief Judicial Magis- height of about 18,600 feet from government will benefit the tour- ploitation of the fragile glacier trate Leh Bashir Ahmad Munshi. the sea level is now open for the ism industry of Ladakh especial- area and acknowledged the re- tourists from the base camp up to ly in Nubra valley. Gyal P Wangyal, CEC , LAHDC, Leh; Executive Councilors, Kumar Post. sponsibility of Hill Council to Phuntsog Stanzin, and Konchok Stanzin; Jamyang Tsering He further added that the poten- formulate a sustainable roadmap Namgyal, Member Parliament Ladakh; Chering Dorjey, MLC Tsering Sandup in a statement tial of adventure tourism in Sia- for regulating tourism in the Leh; Sachin Kumar Vaishya, DC Leh; Councilors of LAHDC, said that the present council has chen belt could now be explored area. Leh; religious heads and other dignitaries were present. 4 | November 1-15, 2019 Fortnightly Special Reach Ladakh Bulletin

the entire coming generations of Ladakh; we cannot afford to let our relating to the UT. Both the council expressed the need of includ- EXPERT TALK guards down. It is the foremost duty of the proponents of the demand ing Ladakh under Sixth Schedule of the Indian constitution, con- of Union Territory that they must see to it that Ladakh should not be at stitutional recognition to Hill Council, legislative powers on land, the receiving end once this hullaballoo over UT settles down. language and culture, tradition and customary practices, natural resources, trade and industry including tourism, environment, and In the absence of a Legislative Assembly, the Hill Councils are the UT Ladakh ecology. only democratic institution that would work towards the development of the region by the aspirations of the people and most importantly it Inclusion of Ladakh under Sixth Schedule is very important and is By Stanzin Dasal is the only platform left where people can voice their concerns. So, the the priority demand of the region because many of the insecurities Hill Councils need to be strengthened with certain legislative powers. will be protected under this provision. The demand has been rec- Feroz Ahmed Khan, Chairman/CEC LAHDC By area, we would be the largest Union Territory and by population, ommended by the tribal ministry also and we are very positive and Kargil: With the official declaration of UT La- we would be the second least populated Union Territory. hopeful that it will be granted. dakh on October 31st we don’t know what is The twin districts of Ladakh, Leh and Kargil shares cultural, tradi- With UT Ladakh the development of the region will boost and we in store for us as the provisions of the Reor- tional and linguistic bonds. We believe that the exemplary communal must also understand that there are few projects such as cement ganisation Act 2019 are not yet clear. We can harmony which has existed in our region in the past would always factories and other big opportunities in which the investment from only hope that everything turns out to be on the remain so. We must work together to strengthen our cultural and tra- outside is necessary. E.g. in tourism, we don’t need outside ventures brighter side as we have been assured of, lately. ditional bonds. However, the relation between the two districts should because we already have the potential and capability to handle this People of Kargil have never been in favour of bifurcation of the be a relationship of equals. Only then we can work towards keeping industry. To curb such issues, the demand for legislative power on state. Our demand was an empowered Hill Council & Divisional the tranquility of the region intact. certain subjects has been put forward so that we can work on such Status for Ladakh within the state of Jammu & Kashmir because of issues and concerns. Solutions: the various safeguards under Article 370 and 35A. With the abroga- A joint memorandum highlighting necessary points has been sent to tion of Article 370 and grant of UT status for Ladakh, it is obvious • We must sit together and understand the regional aspirations Hill council Kargil for their consideration after which, both Leh and that people will have apprehensions regarding land protection, job • A joint team of both the districts shall visit all the existing Union Kargil delegation will go to Delhi and submit to the Central Gov- security, trade, industries, culture, environment, and natural resourc- Territories and report back the best mechanism to run a Union Ter- ernment. The memorandum was supposed to submit before October es, etc. The rising insecurities could be mitigated by the inclusion ritory 31 but due to several issues, it got delayed. There is a difficulty in of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule and by declaring the area as Tribal. getting the appointment because of the election in Haryana and Ma- Other Constitutional safeguards can be incorporated on the lines of • Recommendation best suited to entire Ladakh shall be made to the harashtra but we are trying best to get the appointment soon. the Bodoland Territorial Council. Central Government The grant of UT status is a big change and definitely, there will be If these special provisions are extended to the UT Ladakh, then to a • Budget allocations should be made based on the area of the region many confusion, concern, and issue which will be sorted with time. greater extent these issues can be dealt with. Moreover, in this age of instead of the population Besides, UT Ladakh has a Hill Council intact which is very positive globalization, the duty to safeguard our uniqueness also falls upon but we need to work on implementing the Advisory Council which the people as well. This needs a two-way approach. On one side, the will strengthen the relation of both the council and work collabora- government needs to take every stakeholder into confidence and on Gyal P Wangyal, Chairman/CEC LAHDC Leh: tively. the other hand, the native people need to extend cooperation. UT Ladakh status has given a new identity to the people of Ladakh. With a change, the increasing Once the whole system of UT Ladakh starts working, things will be The joint meeting of Hill Council Leh & Kargil on the UT issue in insecurities and concerns are very obvious and to clear according to which we can make necessary amendments and September was convened in a very cordial atmosphere. Some of the deal with it the UT consultative committee was changes. common issues such as the inclusion of UT Ladakh under Schedule formed. The committee discussed and consid- Sixth of the Constitution of India, constitutional recognition of the Solutions: ered various suggestions and feedbacks submit- LAHDC Act and delegation of more legislative powers to the coun- • Inclusion of Ladakh under Sixth Schedule ted by stakeholders and individuals to safeguard cils, land protection, job security, interests of the employees, etc. the interest of local people in the newly created UT. • A collaborative effort is a must were discussed. At this very moment, the need is to bring our ap- • Implementation of the Advisory council is a must to further en- prehensions to the government in a loud & clear voice rising above On September 21, Hill Council Leh and Kargil had a meeting in Leh hance and strengthen the relation of Hill Council Leh and Kargil the party and regional politics. This is a very grave issue concerning during which both the council agreed on several issues and demand district. DC Leh addresses demands of Nubra valley At Diskit, Nambardars of various villages put Sachin Kumar gave full assurance to fulfill SoulSpeak forth the demands of respective villages. People their genuine demands at the earliest and also of Diskit strongly demanded two hours exten- gave on spot directions to the concerned offi- P.P. Wangchuk sion in the duration of power supply in the eve- cers to immediately address people's needs of ning. They also urged the deployment of a water important nature. He also assured to provide a tanker during winter months. V-set for Waris and extension of power sup- Follow your heart to be a winner ply duration to places where the demand was Nambardar of Khyungroo demanded a per- When it comes to following, there is nothing raised. manent scheme of drinking water supply in better than following your heart. Your heart is the area and also requested to assist Women’s Sachin Kumar also visited villages in the where your wellbeing is. That does not mean Self Help Groups for income generation. Siachen belt to learn about the development that one should not use one’s brain. There are works and public issues. certain occasions when your brain works won- Nambardar of Hundar demanded repair of derfully well, but there are many more occa- village internal link road and installation of a He interacted with the village Nambardar and sions when it ‘deceives ‘you. It ‘advises’ you bridge over Hunder Tokpo at Laksosa place. listened to all their problems and grievances. to calm down and do nothing. It tries to keep The demands of other Nambardars include He gave assurance to look into the issues and Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Commissioner, Leh you conservative and in a ‘play-safe’ mode. As water hand pump for Udmaroo, Medical try to address their demands on priority at the while assessing developmental progress in Nubra a result, you become a ‘Kaam Chor’. valley. sub-center at , irrigation water lifting earliest possible. system at Skampuk, communication facility Reach Ladakh Correspondent He also visited Govt. Higher Secondary It is only your heart that knows what you are really after! I know for for Waris, link road and medical sub-center School, and interacted with the sure of several things, in my life, that haven’t worked out the way Leh: Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Com- for Fastan. I wanted. But I also know very well that I did not follow my heart missioner, Leh assesed developmental prog- teachers and students to get first-hand infor- The villagers of demanded the open- mation about the functionality, facilities, and seriously, and tried to go by my ‘brainy vibes’. And, also true that ress and implementation of various schemes some of the efforts made were half-hearted attempts. On the other in Nubra valley. ing of a degree college, water tanker and ex- standard of the school. tension of power supply duration. Turtuk de- hand, let me assure you with 100% conviction that I could achieve Sonam Norbu, SDM Nubra, and other Sub He addressed people of Khardong village on manded the establishment of Sub Divisional all that I was really mad about. Divisional level officers were also present October 21 where people demanded a mobile Headquarter at Turtuk, opening of a new poll- during the tour. It is true that one can do wonders by listening to one’s heart, and by tower. ing station and Cooperative marketing facility. going by its ‘dictates’. That is why someone had said that your heart and your instincts are far more reliable than your brain. When you follow your heart, be sure you won’t regret later.

Capacity-building program held for line department officers in Leh Therefore, trusting your heart more than your brain will get you bet- Reach Ladakh Correspondent Gohar Naseem, Geo-Spatial Analyst ex- ter results, anytime, anywhere. Make it a point that you are in ‘touch’ plained that the project aims to make geo-spa- always with your heart just as you have to be in touch with your brain Leh: Under the project ‘Space-Based Infor- tial information available to the people at the for any kind of activity. One is in ‘touch’ with one’s brain, almost mation Support for Decentralized Planning grassroot level (Panchayat) involved in plan- automatically, consciously or unconsciously, but that is not the case (SIS-DP)’ by ISRO, Department of Space, ning, implementation and monitoring of var- with one’s heart. There has to be a conscious and asserted effort to be NRSC, Government of India organized ca- ious developmental schemes like MGNRE- in touch with your heart. pacity building program for line department GA, PMGSY, IWMP, CAMPA, and others. officers along with training of manpower And, as American singer Lesley Ann Warren says, the “path to hap- started on October 17. The training focused on enabling the trainees The training was being imparted to the of- piness and success is only through the inner recesses of your heart.” to use databases created under this project for The 2-day session was organized by the De- ficers of line departments involved in the planning and developmental purposes as per partment of Ecology, Environment and Re- execution of developmental purposes and Courtesy: WongWorld the requirement of individual departments. mote Sensing in collaboration with User De- geo-tagging of assets generated under various Also, the use of mobile phones in data captur- The author is a New Delhi-based Editor-at-large, columnist and pro- partments of Leh district. flagship schemes. ing and e-governance were imparted. fessional speaker Reach Ladakh Bulletin Fortnightly Special November 1-15, 2019 | 5

In Conversation with Nawang Thinles Lonpo, Chairman CII Ladakh Zone Interviewed by Tsering Dolker

Q. What are the roles and perspectives of the Confederation of Indian Industry, Leh? established which can harm our environment and ecosystem. The growing industries can lead to wa- Confederation of Indian Industry is non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and ter problems, glacier meltdown, pollution, increase greenhouse gas emission and global warming. industry-managed organization, playing a proactive role in India’s development pro- To curb such devastation, Hill council and administration should have an expertise and consultan- cess. CII serves as a reference point for Indian industry and the international business cy wing to assess and impact of various upcoming projects on our fragile ecosystem as well as community. CII works to create and sustain an environment favorable to the develop- the eco-friendly environment. CII is also framing a policy with the councils and administration to ment of India, partnering industry, Government, and civil society through an advisory build up strategies to eliminate such industry which can be harmful and dangerous. and consultative process. CII works closely with the government on policy issues, interfacing with the leaders, enhancing good organization and business opportunities Q. Brief us about the needed framework to make the industrial sector sustainable. for industry through particular service. To accelerate the economic growth, CII under project ‘Roadmap for growth of Ladakh’ In 2010, CII was started in Ladakh region also. Our perspective is to ensure a suitable listed eight agendas, which are; Connectivity and Infrastructure, Leveraging Tourism industry in consideration of the fragile ecosystem. Mostly we stress renewable Potential, Harnessing Solar Energy, Agriculture, and Animal Husbandry, Educa- energy and eco-friendly industries such as Solar energy, Geothermal energy, tion and Skill Development, Focus on Innovation based industries, Delivery of Hydroelectric energy, Medicinal plant, Aromatic herbs, Pashmina, Sea buck- Affordable healthcare and Sustainable Development. thorn, White-kernel apricot, Wood carving, handloom industries, and Or- To make the industrial sector sustainable the need for planning and man- ganic farming and avoid an industry that pollutes the environment. agement is more important. Every industry should have a good project We also have a monthly magazine which provides an idea of busi- on their business along with the care for nature. Through government, nesses to the new startups. CII supports any project during their initial stage and help them to boost considering their issues and challenges. Q. Tell us about the status of industry establishment in Leh.

To attract more industries in UT Ladakh, there should be GST exemp-

In Ladakh, there are many small scale industries such as metal fab- tion or reimbursement for the initial 10-15 years. rications, handloom, wood carving and many more. Tourism sectors Message to the readers “ Q. What are the initiatives and strategies adopted by your depart- the booming industry of Ladakh lead to the mushrooming hotels and Since we are dependent on tributary water and glacier is the main guest houses. The developmental change without any master plan is ment for the betterment of industrial growth? causing various issues such as sewage and drainage. The administra- “source, water crisis could be a threat to our region. People should use In the 2010 flash flood, CII under Corporate Social Responsibility pro- tion should work towards a master plan for all-round development. water judiciously and save it. vided funds, especially to Saboo village. Ladakh becoming a Union Conservation of glaciers, natural spring, river, streams, green belts, Territory, our initiative will be greater than before since CII is very marshes, and river banks are important along with the development. close to the Union government and we are opening a branch office in A capital subsidy, incentives, tax exemption are needed to promote the ganic farming are a few examples of progressive steps for future La- Leh also. To promote industrialization and attract more investment in big scale industry in Ladakh. dakh in which our youth should involve. the region a mini conclave investor submit was held recently where councils, hotel industry, tour and travel, and young entrepreneurs par- Q. What are the negative impacts of industrial growth in Ladakh Q. Ladakh being declared as a Union Territory status, what are ticipated and discussed the industries which will suit our ecosystem. the different scope and opportunities in an industry sector? and how it can be curbed? Currently, research is going on the geothermal project, the survey for Natural resources such as Uranium and coal have been discovered Ladakh is blessed with many natural resources such as Medicinal which was initiated since 1974 by many scientists. A geothermal is a in Ladakh. If the administration allows extraction or mining of these plant, aromatic herbs, Pashmina, sea buckthorn, white-kernel apricot heat derived from the surface of the earth and the energy can be used resources without proper survey and planning there will be a negative and many more which has a potential in the market. With the Union to generate clean electricity for 24x7 as well suits Ladakh like terrain. impact also. The radiation caused while extracting uranium is very Territory status for Ladakh, there is a great opportunity to develop Puga Changthang is found as a potential area and we are working on a harmful to people and the environment. these products and earn a good amount of money by establishing plan to evacuate power supply to Ladakh region as well as outsource eco-friendly industries. Wood carving, handloom industries, and Or- Similarly, many industries such as plastic manufacturing and others will be to neighbouring states also. IN FOCUS with whom Ladakh shared no similarity, be it race, language or culture. But it was made part of Jammu and Kashmir against The history of the political ordeal of Ladakh the wishes of its people. From the very onset, the new administration proved no different than its pre- Dawa Tondup subsequent Treaty of Tigmosgang, signed in 1684, decessor. Ladakhis were treated as second class cit- greatly weakened the once-powerful kingdom and izens by their Kashmiri overlords. From a kingdom Recently in Ladakh, there has significantly reduced its size. The last independent of respectable stature, Ladakh was reduced to a dis- been great jubilation, particu- ruler of Ladakh was Tsepel Tondup Namgyal. His trict, albeit a large one. Kushok Bakula threatened larly in the Buddhist dominat- Prime Minister was the powerful and able Kalon of to join Tibet if the demands of the people were not ed Leh district regarding the Basgo, Tsewang Tondup, whose daughter married met. His historic speech on the floor of the Legisla- division of Ladakh from Jam- the Crown Prince, Tsewang Rabstan. When Wil- tive Assembly on 12th April, 1952, drew the atten- mu and Kashmir as a separate liam Moorcroft, the English traveller and East India tion of the world towards the plight of the Ladakhis, political entity. It marked the Company agent, met with the Prime Minister, he who were struggling to adapt to the modern world fulfilment of a 71-year-old de- showed him documents proving Russia was making that they were being exposed to, for the first time mand of the Ladakhi people. Back in the late 1940s diplomatic overtures towards Ladakh. Those were in their history. Throughout its history under the on the eve of Indian independence, the then head of the opening days of The Great Game. The Kalon administrative control of Kashmiri leaders, Lada- Ladakh Buddhist Association Kalon Tsewang Rig- and Moorcroft signed a treaty under the terms of kh continuously received step-motherly treatment, zin, head of one of the leading Buddhist families which the English were to aid Ladakh against for- leading to resentment which periodically broke out of the time, reiterated the illegality of Ladakh be- eign invasions and that Ladakh would be free of into political agitations and violence. ing absorbed into Kashmir. What was this illegality foreign intervention internal. But powers that be at he was talking about? How did it come through? Despite the discontent with provincial leaders, La- the East India Company refused to ratify the treaty The Ladakhis took on the invading Dogras in ser- dakhis have time and again proved their patriotism and gave the Dogras, who were under the suzer- vice of their King and country but they could do to India. Be it the 1962 conflict with China, when ainty of the Sikhs, a free hand over the territory, little in the face of superior firepower of the Do- a large portion of Ladakh was lost to Communist thus sealing the fate of Ladakh. A few years before gras. Matters were not helped by the fact that the China, or the 1999 Kargil conflict, when the Ladakh the Dogras invaded, as fate would have it the able King, Tsepel Tondup Namgyal, and his son, Crown of their landholdings dwarfed that of present times. Scouts Regiment had a significant role in the even- Kalon died and his daughter, Skalzang Dolma, mar- Prince Tsewang Rabstan, were both indolent and Landowners used to lend grains to the poor at ex- tual Indian victory. The formation of Hill Council in ried the Crown Prince. She gave birth to a baby boy weak-willed, and were dominated by their intrigu- orbitant rates which were repaid in grains. These 1996, a result of the popular 1989 Buddhist Agita- at Shey Palace, in the midst of a failed rebellion ing wives, which finally cost them their kingdom. interest rates were multiplied if the debtor failed to tion led by Thupstan Chhewang, nephew of Kush- engineered by her husband Tsewang Rabstan. The In a nutshell, the father-son duo were mere shadows pay his dues. This, coupled with the custom of be- ok Bakula, and his colleagues, and its subsequent boy, Jigmed Singey Namgyal, was crowned king by of their powerful ancestors. gar broke the back of the common Ladakhis. Only a empowerment by the Mufti government in 2002, a rebel Ladakhi army and a token Tibetan force at privileged few, those who had extensive, well-man- gave the Ladakhi people a taste of self-governance, Even before the Dogra invasion, inroads were made the Leh Palace after the failure of Zorawar Singh’s aged landholdings, and those who were engaged in although it left much to be desired. The granting of into the Kingdom by forces from Kullu and Man- Tibetan Expedition and the decimation of his forc- trade, had had access to cash. divisional status to Ladakh in February, 2019, and di. Evidently, the neighbouring states had already es at the hands of a Tibetan Army. His reign was the subsequent granting of Union Territory status sensed the weakness of Ladakhi polity. We, the La- short-lived for another Dogra force invaded Lada- Modernity came to Ladakh when, at the eve of In- to Ladakh in August, have fulfilled the political dakhis, were compelled to live for over a century kh and defeated the Tibetans while Ladakhi forces dian independence, it was invaded by tribal raiders aspirations of the Ladakhis. The saga is truly epic under Dogra suzerainty and then reluctantly had to melted away. Kalons and Lonpos became Zildars sent by Pakistan. These raiders were turned back for the former kingdom gets poetic revenge on its accept more than 70 years of Kashmiri dominance and Kardars or Kasdars. Leh remained an entrepot near Leh. Kushok Gyalsras Bakula Rinpoche, a former masters as it breaks away to form a Union with brief periods of popular upsurge. for traders and merchants who traded their goods great-great-grandson of Tsepel Tondup Namgyal, Territory albeit without legislature. The road to UT across High Asia. Many families enriched them- emerged as the de facto leader of the masses in the Ladakh was, as is believed, ruled by the same dy- has been arduous, only the future will tell which selves through their involvement in this trade which aftermath of the tribal invasion. Ladakhis demand- nasty for about a millennia. The dynasty provided direction the fate of its people and its fragile eco- passed through some dangerous terrains. Names ed to be merged with East Punjab or be granted many shrewd and able kings but had its fair share system will take. Let’s hope the dreams cherished like Sra-ngar and Radhu stand out. While the coun- a NEFA type administration, just like Arunachal of failure. The Tibeto-Mongol invasion and the by its people come true. tryside was dominated by the landowners. The size Pradesh, but in no way be enjoined with Kashmir 6 | November 1-15, 2019 Fortnightly News Reach Ladakh Bulletin

Training held on Gram Panchayat Development Plan, mission Delegation demands Bhoti as official Antyodaya Survey- 2019 language of UT Ladakh Reach Ladakh Correspondent Leh: A team of delegation from Ladakh Cultural Forum and CIBS, Choglamsar submitted a copy of memorandum demanding recognition of Bho- ti as an official language of UT Ladakh to Gyal P Wangyal, CEC, Hill Council, Leh on October 18 at Council Secretariat. Reach Ladakh Correspondent recommended for taking prompt implementation with close coordination. The delegation also demanded to make Bhoti Leh: Training cum refresher course on Gram Pan- language as a medium of all social life including chayat Development Plan (GPDP) and mission Zakir Hussain gave a PowerPoint presentation on administrative offices, judiciary, archival and new Delegation from Ladakh Cultural Forum and CIBS meet- Antyodaya Survey- 2019 was given by Zakir Hus- people plan campaign under the theme ‘Sabki Yo- land records. They asked for Bhoti as the medi- ing with Gyal P Wangyal, CEC, LAHDC, Leh at Council sain, District Panchayat Officer, Leh on October 28 jana Sabka Vikas’ from 2nd October to 31st De- um of teaching from Nursery till 4th standard in Secretariat. at DC conference hall. cember 2019. During this period every Panchayat all schools, to revise the school textbooks giving shall hold Gram Sabha meetings for preparing It was attended by master resource persons of the dis- importance to local topics and to include monastic posed to offer certificate and diploma courses in Gram Panchayat Development Plan for the next trict, Block officers and facilitators of Leh District. schools under the government school system. Bhoti to help young professionals with the lan- financial year with relating to economic- devel guage and grammar. Dr. Zahida Bano, ADC, Leh underlined the impor- opment and social justice. He also gave a broad The demand further includes forming of a sep- tance of training for the Sarpanches which help to highlight on people’s plan campaign regarding the arate education board for UT Ladakh, filling up Gyal P Wangyal welcomed the proposal as an im- develop their capability and formulate good devel- strengthening of PRI and SHGs, evidence-based of the vacant post of Bhoti teacher post in all the portant initiative towards strengthening the culture, opmental planning and policy. She urged for uti- assessment of the progress of 2019-2020 and pro- government schools, Bhoti Department in Ladakh language, and script of the region. He assured that lizing the centrally sponsored schemes so that the posal for 2020-2021 in all subject of schedule XI of University and Degree colleges to offer B.A. and Hill Council, Leh would leave no stone unturned to beneficiary gets maximum advantages. She also J&K Panchayat Raj Act-1989. M.A. courses in Bhoti language and literature, to preserve and promote the cultural values and iden- make Bhoti language the medium for broadcast and tity of the region. Also, he sought the guidance of telecast for All India Radio Leh and Doordarshan scholars and intellectuals to make it happen in UT Workshop on promoting medicinal and aromatic Kendra, Leh. Ladakh. Institutionalize Sowa Rigpa, strengthen Culture Konchok Stanzin, EC Education assured the del- Academy by affiliating the department to Sahitya egation that LAHDC will soon initiate necessary plants concluded in Leh Academy for Language and Sangeet Natak Acad- measures in this direction with the support and emy Rashtriya Kalakender for theatre, songs, mu- guidance of the scholar fraternity. sic, art and crafts with department branch office Tsering Norbu Martse, President, Ladakh Cul- in different regions of Ladakh, to make ethics and ture Forum, Geshes Konchok Wangdus, Director, traditional based curriculum mandatory in schools, CIBS, Ven. Lobzang Nyantak, Councilor Upper to promote research-based institutes to support lo- Leh, Scholar Jamyang Gyalson, Mipham Otsal, cal and outside researchers in Ladakh was also put Sangeet Natak Awardee, Tsewang Paljor, Cultural forward. Officer and Dr. Sonam Wangchuk were among the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS) pro- delegation.

DC, Leh visits villages of Changthang, ensures proper facilities Reach Ladakh Correspondent Col. Manoj Batra, DIHAR highlighted the im- Reach Ladakh Correspondent portance of the proposed workshop for the devel- Leh: A two-day workshop-cum-brainstorming Changthang: To access the opment of MAP resource in the region. He also programme on ‘Promoting Medicinal and Aromat- ground reality of people living briefed participants about the work done by DI- ic Plant (MAP) Sector for Conservation of Snow in Changthang area, the standard HAR for medicinal plant area. Leopard Habitats in the Himalaya’ concluded on of facilities and problems faced October 15 at DIHAR, DRDO, Leh. The workshop was divided into four technical ses- by the people, Sachin Kumar, sions i.e. diversity, distribution and availability of DC Leh conducted a 2-day tour The programme was organized by G.B. Pant Na- map; cultivation, propagation and harvesting; tradi- to Durbuk and Nyoma Sub-divi- tional Institute of Himalayan Environment & tional healthcare and value chain and recommenda- sions on October 15. Sustainable Development (GBPNIHESD), Ko- tions, policy considerations and way forward. si-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand and Himachal During the interaction with the Regional Center, Mohal Kullu. Dr. Padma Gurmet, Head of the NRISR talked public, the villagers apprised about the Medicinal Plants Diversity and Tradi- various issues such as lack of Sachin Kumar while interacting with the students of Nyoma School. More than 50 stakeholders attended the workshop tional Medicine of Sowa-Rigpa in the first techni- basic facilities and infrastructure which includes experts, academicians and research cal session. in their villages. Sachin Kumar organisations. Besides, NGOs, pharmaceutical in- staff in schools . also convened a meeting with instructed the concerned HODs the officers of Nyoma sub-divi- dustry (Dabur), MAP cultivators, traders, Amchi, Dr. Dorjey from DIHAR presented an overview Sachin further ensured the pro- for immediate readdress of their sion and discussed the function- Ladakh Organic Farming and other organisations of research carried out in medicinal and aromatic vision of funds for mud house issues. ing, performance, problems, and working on the MAPs in the region has also attend- plants by DIHAR. He highlighted the value change construction for the hand pumps, achievements along with the is- ed the workshop. development work done by DIHAR on sea buck- He also assured to take imme- Chhurpey-driers, improvement thorn, Inula and Podophyllym MAP species. diate steps on their major issues sues and requirements of various Dr. I.D. Bhatt, Scientist-F, GBPNIHESD welcomed in drinking water facility, elec- like commissioning of JIO mo- departments. all the dignitaries and participants in the workshop. Dr. Mohd Deen, Founder, LEHO shared his expe- tricity, road connectivity and bile services, improvement in rience on MAP cultivation and livelihood develop- construction of staff quarters and Sachin Kumar was accompa- Dr. R.C. Sundriyal, Scientist-G, GBPNIHESD pro- BSNL services, renovation of ment in Ladakh. many more. nied by Rigzin Spalgon, SDM vided a detailed overview of the workshop. He high- solar power plants, enhancement Durbuk; Mohd Taqi, SDM Nyo- Sachin Kumar also visited PHC lighted the national and regional scenario of MAP Dr. Rinchen, NRISR, discussed the propagation in diet charges of children in res- ma and other sub-divisional offi- and Hr. Sec School, Nyoma. He development, regulatory framework and progress of and harvesting of high-value medicinal plants. idential hostels and shortage of cers during the tour. the UNDP (MAP) project for Ladakh region. During traditional healthcare and value chain ses- sion, He explained the Sowa Rigpa system: focus- Konchok Stanzin, Executive Councillor, Educa- ing on Rhodiola plant (Sanjeevani of Himalaya). tion stressed that the medicinal and aromatic plant JKJK SECURITY SECURITY is one the very important and key sector for the Surendra Bhagat, Dabur highlighted the value growth of the Ladakh region and particularly liveli- chain, marketing and product development of me- hood development of the indigenous communities. dicinal plants of Ladakh region in his presentation. He further added that there is an urgent need for At the end, experts recommended the need of co- Innovating for smarter & safer Ladakh. formulation of policy planning for medicinal plant ordinated research on medicinal plants, in-situ & We deal & provide service in: CCTV, development considering the local environment. ex-situ conservation of threatened species, me- Biometrics, Fire Extinguisher, Inter- He also suggested the recommendation of the dicinal plant hotspot areas should be designated com, Automatic School Bell. workshop to be implemented in Ladakh. as medicinal plant conservation areas (MPCAs), identification of MAP species as per trade value Preet Pal Singh, Chief Conservator of Forest, For- We are also on GeM and threat perception, strict guidelines for protec- est Department discussed MAP conservation, pro- tion of IPR of indigenous communities, advance Office location: Taru Namgyal Com- ductivity, government legislation, market demand scientific research on phylogenetic studies, phyto- and benefit-sharing issues. He also stressed on the plex, Petrol pump, Leh. chemical studies, Value addition, agro techniques, urgent need of constitution of state biodiversity organic farming required for MAPs, utilization Contact: 9419304234, 9622968086, board and medicinal plant board in UT Ladakh. of wasteland for MAP cultivation, establishment E-mail: jkcommunicationleh@gmail. "The outcome of the workshop will be included of processing and product development units for in the forest working plan of the Ladakh region," MAP in Ladakh and capacity building and aware- com/ www.facebook.com/jksecurity24. Preet Pal Singh emphasized. ness creation for stakeholders. Reach Ladakh Bulletin Advertisement November 1-15, 2019 | 7

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour 2020

BOOK NOW! 43 Nights / 44 Days From 7 January to 19 February 2020

₹ 97,000 INDIA (Per person sharing) Bodhgaya, Rajgir & Nalanda, Vaishali, Sarnath, Kushinagar, Sravasti, Kalimpong, Gangtok, Pelling, Darjeeling NEPAL Lumbini, Kathmandu, Maratika cave, Stakmo luschin, Bhaktapur ITINERARY

• 7 January Leh to Delhi/Patna by Flight & Patna to Bodhgaya by Bus • 8 January Bodhgaya Monasteries Visit/ Main stupa. • 9 January Monasteries Visit (Rajgir & Nalanda) • 10 January Monasteries Visit (Vaishali) (yangspa chan). • 11 January Monasteries Visit and late evening drive to Sarnath (247 Kms, 5 hrs. 50m) • 12 January Arrive Sarnath by Morning, after wash and change proceed for Monasteries Visit. • 13 January Sarnath Monasteries (Main chorten, Museum and Karma pa Gonpa) • 14 January Sarnath Monasteries. (Ganga river) • 15 January Sarnath to Kushinagar (O/N) (222 Kms, 5 hrs.) • 16 January Arrive Kushinagar by morning, after wash and change proceed for Monasteries Visit (Buddha Nirvana Place and Buddha Ghat) • 17 January Monasteries Visit (Thai Temple) and late evening drive to Sravasti (238 kms,5 Hrs) • 18 January Arrive Sravasti by Morning,after wash and Change proceed for Monasteries Visit • 19 January Monasteries visit and late evening drive Lumbini (198 Kms,5 Hrs) BHUTAN • 20 January Arrive Lumbini by Morning,after wash and change proceed for Monasteries Visit. (Buddha birth place) Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Phuentsholing • 21 January Monasteries Visit (Kargut monastery and more) and late evening drive to Kathmandu (260 kms, 6 Hrs) • 22 January Arrive Kathmandu by Morning,after wash and change proceed for Monasteries Visit • 23 January Monasteries Visit (Swayambhunath Stupa /Druk Amitabha ) • 24 January Monasteries Visit (Maratika cave) • 25 January Monasteries Visit (Stakmo luschin) Cost Includes • 26 January Monasteries Visit (Bhaktapur city and Guru rinpochey cave) • 27 January Freeday for Shopping • Accommodation on sharing basis. • 28 January Freeday for Shopping • All meals (Breakfast + Pack / Hot Lunch + Dinner) • 29 January Kathmandu –Paro (Bhutan) by flight. Arrival at Paro and transfer to Thimphu (65km/1hrs drive) • 30 January Hike to Tango and Cheri Monastery. • Flight tickets from Leh-Delhi-Patna, Kathmandu-Paro, Bagdorga-Delhi & • 31 January Thimphu – Punakha (77kms/3hrs Drive) Delhi- Leh in economy class • 1 February Punakha –Bumthang (217.4kms/6hrs.) • 2 February Bumthang Local Sightseeing • All Transport by Non AC Bus • 3 February Bumthang – Punakha (217.4km/6hrs) • Monk guide, 1 male & 1 female tour escort, cook and helper • 4 February Punakha – Paro (145kms/4hrs.) • Tea, coffee, snacks and entrances • 5 February Hike to Tiger Nest monastery (5hrs hike) • 6 February Paro – Phuentsholing (168kms/5hrs.) • Travel insurance, GST • 7 February Phuntsogling to Kalimpong (Sikkim) (175 Km /5 Hrs) • 8 February Monasteries visit • 9 February Kalimpong to Gangtok (75 Kms/3 Hrs) • 10 February Monasteries Visit Contact: Overland Escape • 11 February Monasteries visit • 12 February Gangtok to Pelling (117 Kms/5 Hrs) Raku Complex, Fort Road, Leh, or Skara Yokma, Leh. • 13 February Monasteries Visit • 14 February Pelling to Darjeeling (74 Kms/3 Hrs/40 M) Kunga Namgyal. • 15 February Monasteries Visit • 16 February Darjeeling to Bagdogra Airport (70 Kms/ 2Hrs/40Min) Mobile: 9858394404 • 17 February Freeday for Shopping • 18 February Freeday for Shopping www.overlandescape.com • 19 February Delhi to Leh 8 | November 1-15, 2019 Advertisement Reach Ladakh Bulletin

CITY CAR CARE DENTING, COMPUTERIZED PAINTING, REPAIRING, & CAR WASHING ETC.

Choose us for best car service and we shall not disappoint you…!!! ADDRESS: AGLING ROAD, NEAR FORCE SERVICE LEH-LADAKH

Contact No: 9419888666, 9596652270, 9419198810, and 9906982222