Leh, Apr 23 : The National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR), Leh, observed Earth Day 2026 with a plantation drive and awareness programme at its Trans-Himalayan Herbal Garden, emphasising environmental conservation and sustainable practices in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The event, held under the Swachhta Action Plan, saw participation from faculty members, staff, and students, reflecting a collective effort to promote ecological awareness and responsible environmental practices.
According to the official press release, the programme was inaugurated by the Director of NISR through the ceremonial planting of Pinus (locally known as Donshing), symbolising the institute’s commitment to sustainability and conservation in high-altitude regions.
A range of medicinal plants with therapeutic value were also planted during the programme, aimed at conserving high-altitude medicinal flora and promoting biodiversity. The initiative also sought to strengthen awareness about traditional Sowa-Rigpa knowledge systems and their relevance in contemporary healthcare and environmental stewardship.
The Trans-Himalayan Herbal Garden, where the programme was held, serves as a centre for the conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants. Officials stated that such initiatives reinforce ongoing efforts towards ecological sustainability and preservation of valuable plant resources in the region.
The programme also highlighted the role of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment, encouraging participants to adopt sustainable practices for the benefit of future generations.
The observance forms part of broader outreach efforts by the institute to integrate environmental awareness with traditional medical knowledge, while contributing to conservation initiatives in Ladakh’s high-altitude landscape.
