Leh, Jun 05: On the occasion of the 53rd World Environment Day, the Indian Army, in close collaboration with civil society organisations and local communities, spearheaded an inspiring series of environmental initiatives across the ecologically sensitive region of Ladakh. The efforts showcased a shared commitment to sustainability, conservation, and responsible living.
In a landmark collective effort, 13 civil society organisations joined hands with schoolchildren and residents to clean a 40-kilometre stretch along both banks and midstream sections of the Indus River near Nyoma Village. The mission extended to a 44-kilometre road stretch from Nyoma to Mudh, during which approximately 14 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste were collected and safely disposed of.
This region is a crucial habitat for rare and endangered species, including the Black-necked Crane, Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass), Snow Partridge, Gadwall, Grey-headed Gull, and Brahminy Duck. The initiative marks a significant milestone in high-altitude conservation and was strongly supported by the Indian Army’s Snow Leopard Brigade.
In parallel efforts, the Parashu Warriors Brigade engaged local youth through a painting competition, followed by cleanliness drive and tree plantation campaign aimed at rejuvenating water bodies and fostering a greener future. These creative and action-oriented programs helped raise ecological awareness among the younger generation.
Meanwhile, the Dhanurdhari Gunners conducted a dedicated cleanliness drive in the villages of Tia and Temisgam. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from 110 students, 15 teachers, and 10 villagers. A total of 65 kilograms of waste was cleared, underscoring the power of community-led sustainability initiatives.
One of the Indian Army’s most ambitious environmental campaigns—Swachh Siachen Abhiyan—also marked a significant achievement. Since its launch, the Siachen Warriors have removed over 170 tonnes of waste from the world’s highest battlefield.
On this World Environment Day, they extended the campaign with sapling plantations and clean-up drives across Siachen Glacier, Nubra Valley, and Shyok Valley. The initiative has drawn national acclaim from the Hon’ble President, Prime Minister, Raksha Mantri, and Chief of Army Staff for its focus on green energy, sustainability, and ecological preservation.
Further north, officers and soldiers of the Galwan Healers Battalion contributed through Shram Daan, collecting around 50 kilograms of waste from the roadside and unit premises. They also planted 117 native poplar and willow saplings, contributing to greening the high-altitude desert environment.
The Indian Army’s commitment to environmental stewardship is unwavering, especially in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, where climate change poses a growing threat. Through these concerted actions—from river clean-ups and tree plantations to waste management and community outreach—the Army continues to honour its dual role as defender of the nation and guardian of nature.
