Zanskar, July 07, 2026: Government Degree College (GDC) Zanskar, in collaboration with the All Zanskar Student Union, commenced the three-day “Envisioning Zanskar Summit 2026”, bringing together academicians, policymakers, political leaders, religious scholars, students, and civil society members to deliberate on the future of Zanskar through panel discussion and collective vision.
The inaugural session commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the traditional lamp by Khen. Rinpoche Lobzang Khedrup, symbolizing wisdom, enlightenment, and the pursuit of knowledge. The ceremony was followed by a captivating folk song presented by Mr. Stanzin, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Zanskar.
Delivering the inaugural address, Khen. Rinpoche Lobzang Khedrup emphasized the importance of preserving the spiritual, cultural, and ethical values of Zanskar while embracing sustainable development. He urged the younger generation to remain connected to their roots and actively contribute towards the holistic development of the region.
Welcoming the distinguished guests, panelists, students, and participants, Dr. Amjad Ali Abassi, Principal, Government Degree College Zanskar, described the summit as a significant platform that brings together diverse stakeholders to collectively envision the future of Zanskar. He congratulated the Zanskar Students’ Union for organizing the summit in collaboration with the college and appreciated their commitment to encouraging meaningful public discourse.
The Principal remarked that Zanskar is witnessing rapid socio-economic changes, making it imperative to strike a balance between development and the preservation of its unique cultural identity, ecological wealth, and traditional knowledge systems. He encouraged students and participants to actively engage in the deliberations throughout the summit, emphasizing that informed dialogue and collective participation are essential for shaping a resilient and prosperous future for Zanskar.
The first panel discussion, titled “Envisioning Zanskar: A Vision for Tomorrow,” was moderated by Mr. Tenzin Loden. The panel comprised Dr. Jamphel Sheyan (Assistant Professor, English, GDC Zanskar), Mr. Phuntsok Tashi (Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil), Mr. Stanzin Lakpa (Councillor, LAHDC Kargil), Mr. Stanzin Jigmet (Councillor, LAHDC Kargil), and Padma Shri awardee Mr. Tsultim Chonjor.
The panelists deliberated on sustainable development, quality education, infrastructure, tourism, employment opportunities, and inclusive governance. Dr. Jamphel Sheyan highlighted education as the foundation of social transformation and sustainable development, emphasizing that meaningful progress must be rooted in knowledge while safeguarding Zanskar’s culture, biodiversity, and traditional values. Other panelists stressed the need for community participation, youth leadership, responsible tourism, and long-term planning for balanced regional development. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants exchanged ideas with the experts.
The second panel discussion, themed “Preserving Identity in a Changing world” was moderated by Mr. Haider Askary, Assistant Professor of Sociology, GDC Zanskar. The discussion focused on safeguarding Zanskar’s cultural identity amidst rapid modernization and globalization. The panelists include Dr. Sonum Wangchuk, Ms. Kunzes Dolma, and Rigzin Samphel, highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, local customs, architecture, languages, and community values while embracing positive social and technological changes. They emphasized the role of educational institutions, families, community organizations, and youth in ensuring that development remains culturally sensitive and inclusive. The session also concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session.
Following the lunch break, the third panel discussion on “Language and History” was moderated by Dr. Villayat Ali, Assistant Professor of History, GDC Zanskar. The panel featured Dr. Tsewang Gyalsen, Ven. Tsering Chosphel, Ven. Thupsten Palden, and Dr. Stanzin Minguer. The speakers underscored the importance of preserving indigenous languages as carriers of history, identity, and cultural heritage. They advocated for the promotion of mother-tongue education, documentation of oral traditions, and greater efforts to encourage the younger generation to learn and use local languages. The session concluded with an engaging interaction between the panelists and participants.
An awareness session on Cyber Crime and Digital Safety was conducted by Ms. Yangzom and Mr. Tashi Dawa, who sensitized participants about online fraud, cyber security, digital ethics, safe social media practices, and methods of reporting cyber offences.
The first day of the summit concluded with enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, public representatives, and members of civil society. The remaining sessions of the three-day Envisioning Zanskar Summit 2026 will continue over the next two days, featuring further panel discussions and deliberations on issues of regional importance aimed at shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for Zanskar.
