World Environment Day Observed at Karsha with Mass Plantation Drive, Environmental Awareness Programme, Waste Management and Khet Bachao Abhiyan.

World Environment Day Observed at Karsha with Mass Plantation Drive, Environmental Awareness Programme, Waste Management and Khet Bachao Abhiyan.
Zanskar, June 05, 2026: Under the direction of the Deputy Commissioner, Zanskar, Sh. Omkar Rajendra Gundage, IAS, World Environment Day was observed with great enthusiasm at Karsha today under the aegis of the Rural Development Department (RDD), Zanskar, in collaboration with the Nambardar Karsha.
The event was graced by Superintendent of Police, Zanskar, Sh. Regzin Sangdup, JKPS, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included the Block Development Officer, Zanskar; Block Development Officer, Lungnak; Naib Tehsildar, Zanskar; SHO Zanskar; and officials from Rural Development department, Zanskar. The programme brought together government officials, community leaders, local farmers, Self Help Group (SHG) members, former PRI representatives, Ama Tsogspa members of Karsha and Youlang, and village residents to reaffirm their commitment towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.
A major highlight of the programme was the launch of a large-scale plantation drive under Social Forestry works being implemented through MGNREGA (VB GramG). More than 15,000 saplings are proposed to be planted in and around Karsha as part of the initiative. The plantation campaign was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest Sh. Regzin Sangdup, JKPS, SP Zanskar along with other dignitaries by planting saplings, symbolizing a collective commitment towards a greener and healthier environment.
Addressing the gathering, Sh. Regzin Sangdup, JKPS, emphasized the significance of World Environment Day and underscored the urgent need for environmental protection, afforestation, and sustainable management of natural resources. He highlighted the role of tree plantation in combating climate change, preventing land degradation, and ensuring ecological balance. He further called upon citizens, especially the younger generation, to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts and contribute towards building a sustainable future.
On the occasion, the Block Development Officer, also addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to the Nambardar Karsha, local farmers, SHG members, Ama Tsogspa members of Karsha and Youlang, and all stakeholders for their wholehearted cooperation in making the plantation initiative a success. He highlighted that the plantation drive is being undertaken under MGNREGA (VB GramG) and appreciated the collective efforts of the community in supporting environmental conservation and afforestation activities. He emphasized that such community-led initiatives are vital for ensuring sustainable development and ecological preservation in the region.
A Special Gram Sabha was also conducted on the themes of environmental conservation, Solid Waste Management (SWM), and waste segregation. Participants were sensitized about responsible waste management practices, source segregation of waste, and the importance of maintaining clean and sustainable villages.
Later, a comprehensive “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” awareness campaign was conducted by the Agriculture Extension Officer (AEO)/BDO Lungnak. The campaign focused on safeguarding agricultural land, promoting sustainable farming practices, and encouraging farmers to protect cultivable land for future generations. During the awareness programme, the farming community was urged to “Save Our Fields, Protect Our Farms, and Secure Our Future.” He highlighted the importance of agriculture as the backbone of the rural economy in Zanskar and stressed the need for collective efforts to preserve agricultural resources and enhance productivity.
The Nambardar Karsha expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished guests, officials, and participants for making the programme a success and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting all developmental and environmental initiatives in the area.
The programme concluded with colourful cultural performances by the Ama Tsogspa groups of Karsha and Youlang, adding a festive touch to the occasion and reflecting the community’s spirit of unity and commitment towards environmental stewardship.