Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, led a pivotal gathering at the Civil Secretariat in Leh, aimed at addressing the critical environmental concerns in the region. The focal point of discussion revolved around the establishment and operation of the State Climate Change Centre, envisaged to promote sustainable development and resilience.
During the session, Professor S.K. Mehta, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, unveiled a comprehensive roadmap aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. This strategic plan seeks to revolutionize the educational landscape by integrating the eSAMARTH University Management System to enhance administrative efficiency.
Emphasizing yearly progression, the plan includes the integration of the national knowledge network and the augmentation of Postgraduate programs and development courses.
Additionally, plans were unveiled for the introduction of certificate courses tailored to contemporary educational demands, alongside initiatives to bolster academic collaboration.
The meeting also shed light on the State Climate Change Centre, sanctioned by the Department of Science & Technology (GoI). The center aims to scientifically assess Ladakh’s vulnerability to climate change across various dimensions, encompassing physical, biological, and socio-cultural aspects.
Dr. Pawan Kotwal stressed the importance of introducing certificate courses in Astro Tourism, with a specific focus on the Hanle Galaxy’s emerging frontiers of knowledge and tourism. He underscored the significance of the State Climate Change Centre housed at the University of Ladakh, emphasizing its role in addressing climate change challenges and promoting sustainable practices across sectors. Furthermore, he emphasized the synergy between the State Climate Change Centre and the Mountain Research Institute (MRI) at the University of Ladakh.
The meeting saw the presence of key officials including the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ladakh; Commissioner/Secretary of Forest, Ecology & Environment, UT Ladakh; Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Ladakh/Chief Wildlife Warden, Ladakh; Chief Conservator of Forest, Ladakh; Director Accounts and Treasuries, UT Ladakh; Senior Accounts Officer, FE&E Department, Ladakh; Deputy Director Planning (K), PD&MD, Ladakh; and Dean Research Studies and Dean School of Earth Sciences from the University of Ladakh.
The discussions concluded with a collective commitment to advancing Ladakh’s sustainable development agenda, with a particular focus on combating climate change and preserving its unique ecological heritage.