Welcome to Himalaya Calling
The Himalayas are not only a fragile ecological zone but also a vibrant cradle of ancient cultures, spiritual traditions, and indigenous knowledge systems. This session focuses on how the integration of cultural heritage — rituals, land-use practices, storytelling, and artisanal skills — can inform and strengthen sustainable development strategies in mountain regions.Participants will explore the value of culturally rooted models of conservation, the importance of intergenerational knowledge, and the ethical inclusion of tribal and local voices in policy frameworks. By connecting the past with the future, the session aims to reshape sustainability through a cultural lens.
Objectives
- To highlight the role of indigenous knowledge in natural resource management
- To promote culture-sensitive approaches to sustainable development in Himalayan villages
- To address threats of cultural erosion, tourism pressure, and market-driven change
- To foster dialogue between academics, community leaders, and policymakers
- To build frameworks that protect identity, language, and heritage while advancing SDGs
Who Should Attend
- Anthropologists, sociologists, and cultural researchers
- Environmental policy scholars and planners
- Educators, historians, and grassroots educators
- Tribal representatives and civil society leaders
- Development professionals working in eco-cultural heritage, rural livelihoods, or tourism
Contact – Session Chair
Dr. Ruchika Rai, UPES – Dehradun, India
