LEH DEC 12: The Ladakh Regional Centre of the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (LRC-NIHE) led the regional observance of International Mountain Day 2025 by organising a seminar focused on the “Glaciers of the Indian Himalayan Region,” drawing attention to the urgent need for glacier preservation and mountain ecosystem protection.
Held in alignment with the United Nations’ International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, the seminar echoed this year’s global theme — “Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in mountains and beyond.”
The theme underscores the critical role glaciers play as freshwater lifelines for nearly two billion people worldwide, particularly Indigenous mountain communities who rely on them for agriculture, hydropower, and cultural practices.
The highlight of the event was an insightful lecture by Dr. Riyaz Ahmad Mir, who delved into the changing cryosphere of Ladakh and the emerging water security challenges posed by retreating glaciers.
He emphasised that Ladakh stands at the forefront of climate impacts, with diminishing glacial reserves threatening long-term sustainability for both local populations and downstream regions.
The seminar was chaired by Dr. Sandipan Mukherjee, Scientist-E and Head of LRC-NIHE, while Dr. Purushottam K. Garg, Scientist-C, served as the convenor.
An engaging open discussion led by Dr. Dalbeer Singh further broadened the dialogue on environmental threats and community-driven adaptation strategies.
Concluding the programme, Dr. Naveen Chandra, Scientist-C, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the participants’ commitment and reaffirming the institute’s dedication to advancing research and awareness for mountain and glacier conservation.
By spearheading the International Mountain Day 2025 observance, the G.B. Pant Institute once again highlighted the pressing need to protect glaciers — vital sources of water, food security, and livelihoods for millions.
