Ladakh to promote astro-tourism under Hanle reserve project

Ladakh Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal chaired a meeting on Thursday to review and discuss the progress and future roadmap of the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve.

Professor Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), delivered a detailed presentation highlighting the ongoing initiatives under the Hanle reserve project. She outlined key developments since its inception, such as providing telescopes to selected villagers in Hanle and training them as astro-tourism guides for visitors. Prof Subramaniam also detailed outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about astro-tourism, the introduction of an astro-tourism curriculum, and the revival of astronomy laboratories in schools across Ladakh.

Prof Subramaniam informed the gathering that approximately 28,000 tourists visited Hanle in the past year, indicating a growing interest in astro-tourism. She emphasised the need to initiate astronomy training programmes for school students across the region to further strengthen public engagement and scientific awareness.

Kotwal directed the Indian Institute of Astrophysics to formally recommend the introduction of the astro-tourism course, following the relevant ongoing vetting process. He further instructed the Institute of Hotel Management and the University of Ladakh to collaborate and launch an integrated course on hospitality and astronomy in a phased manner.

Stressing the importance of field-level implementation, the Chief Secretary directed the Department of Tourism to conduct an on-ground visit to Hanle to assess the ongoing work and provide necessary support. He emphasised the need to train local residents in the use of the telescopes installed in various places in Ladakh to enhance community participation in the project.

J & K