Early Times Report
KARGIL, Nov 4: Government Degree College (GDC) Kargil hosted "Landscapes of Possibilities: Youth Convening for Sustainable and Resilient Futures" from October 31 to November 2, 2026, bringing together young people from pastoral communities in Ladakh and other parts of India to deliberate on sustainable development, ecological resilience and the future of pastoral livelihoods.
Organised in connection with the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, the initiative was undertaken in collaboration with the Higher Education Department, UT Ladakh; GDC Kargil; ATREE; Katradi Trust; and Achi Association India.
The three-day workshop was facilitated by Ms. Sangeeta Isvaran, Founder of Katradi Trust. It explored themes including pastoral livelihoods, culture, identity, gender, well-being and ecological change through participatory activities such as theatre, storytelling, movement, collective art and dialogue.
The programme culminated in a public gathering on November 3, attended by Sh. Ayaz Ahmad Bhat, Tehsildar Kargil, as Chief Guest, and Ms. Kaneez Fatima, former Joint Commissioner, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, Ministry of Education, and former Rector, University of Ladakh, as Guest of Honour. In-charge Principal, Mr. Mohd. Ishaq, faculty members and students were also present.
The gathering featured cultural performances by Team Stringmo and students of GDC Kargil, facilitated by the college's Cultural Committee. Eco-collages, talks and exhibitions further showcased the rich pastoral heritage and ecological significance of rangeland communities.
The initiative underscored the vital role of youth as custodians of pastoral landscapes and highlighted the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary aspirations to promote sustainability, climate resilience and the preservation of cultural heritage. |
