Leh, Ladakh, April 7, 2024: Sonam Wangchuk, a name that resonates with innovation and activism, is a force to be reckoned with in the high-altitude region of Ladakh. Born on September 1, 1966, in Alchi, Ladakh, Wangchuk’s journey from a small village to becoming an internationally recognized figure is nothing short of inspiring.
Wangchuk’s early life was marked by challenges. He was not enrolled in a school until the age of 9, as there were no schools in his village. His mother taught him all the basics in his own mother tongue until that age. At the age of 9, he was taken to Srinagar and enrolled in a school. He completed his B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from National Institute of Technology Srinagar in 1987.
Wangchuk is the founding-director of the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), which was founded in 1988. He is also known for designing the SECMOL campus that runs on solar energy and uses no fossil fuels for cooking, lighting, or heating.
One of his most notable innovations is the Ice Stupa technique that creates artificial glaciers, used for storing winter water in the form of a cone-shaped ice heap. This innovation has brought a significant change in the lives of the people of Ladakh, helping them combat water scarcity during the harsh winters.
Wangchuk’s activism is as noteworthy as his innovations. He has been at the forefront of several movements aimed at safeguarding Ladakh’s environment and its tribal indigenous culture. His recent ‘fast unto death’ protest, which entered its 13th day, is a testament to his commitment to the cause. The protest was initiated to press for constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory of Ladakh and protection of Ladakh’s ecosystem from industrial and mining lobbies.
Wangchuk’s work has been recognized globally. He has been awarded the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture (2017), Fred M. Packard Award (2016), Rolex Awards for Enterprise (2016), Real Heroes Award (2008), Ashoka Fellowship for Social Entrepreneurship (2002), and the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award (2018).
Wangchuk’s ‘fast unto death’ protest began on March 6, 2024, in Leh, Ladakh. He addressed a gathering of hundreds of people at 3,500 meters above sea level, announcing that his protest would take place in stages of 21 days each. As his protest entered its 13th day, Wangchuk continued to press for his demands.
His protest is aimed at achieving two key demands: constitutional safeguards for the Union Territory of Ladakh and protection of Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem from industrial and mining lobbies. He has called for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for the region.
Wangchuk’s protest has garnered significant public support. “250 people slept hungry in -12°C to remind the Indian Government of their promises to safeguard Ladakh’s environment and its tribal indigenous culture,” Wangchuk wrote in a post.
Sonam Wangchuk’s journey is a beacon of inspiration, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his land and people. His innovations and activism continue to shape Ladakh’s future, making him a true hero.
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