LEH: The future of the coming generations of Ladakh would depend a lot on what we do today to preserve the environment and climate of the union territory, said Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra as he attended the closing ceremony of the ‘Plantation Drive & Forest Art Festival’ at Matho.
Mishra also planted a Juniper sapling at the site of the festival which was organised by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, in collaboration with the Wall Art Project, Japan and the villagers of Matho.
Addressing the gathering, which included the villagers, Venerable monks of the Matho Monastery and the environmental artists, the LG commended the inspiring spirit and efforts of the people of Ladakh to increase the region’s green cover.
“What we do today for the environment and climate of the union territory, will decide the future of the coming generations of Ladakh,” said the LG as he acknowledged the unique convergence of art and nature conservation at the event.
“The saplings we planted today will prove beneficial for the current as well as the future generations,” Mishra added.
He stated that more such plantation drives should be carried out in Ladakh.
The LG lauded the Japanese artists for exemplifying dedication and discipline in every aspect of their work, highlighting Japan’s development despite being a small island nation.
He called the event a ‘great learning experience’ for young Ladakhi artists who had the opportunity to work with seasoned Japanese artists.
During the event, the Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal requested the LG for a common fencing arrangement for the plantations in the Matho Thang area. He also highlighted the need for a sustainable irrigation system to support the plantation.
Earlier, Nambardar Matho, Tsering Angdus, delivered the welcome address and also raised several requests for the development of the village.
The 10-day event promoted the importance of preserving nature through a unique blend of art and green initiatives where Director, Wall Art Project, Japan, Akiko Ookini; Assistant Director, Kazunuri Hamao, Daisuke Kagawa, Haruna Sugisaki and a team of talented artists showcased art to channel the spiritual essence of the land and nature into art, conveying the message of environmental conservation.
Executive Councillors, LAHDC Leh- Stanzin Chosphel, Ghulam Mehdi; Venerable monks of the Matho Monastery; DFO Leh, Dhawan Kumar Rawat and representatives from the All Ladakh Gonpa Association, Ama Tsogspa Matho along with many local environmental artists were present during the event.
