Leh, Sept 08: A significant Capacity Building Programme for homestay owners from Tangtse, Chulungkha, and Chiktan villages was successfully held yesterday at the Ladakh Environment and Health Organization (LEHO). The event, aimed at strengthening the homestay sector and promoting sustainable tourism, was graced by a distinguished array of officials, including the Hon’ble Chairman/CEC, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, LAHDC, Leh, who served as the chief guest.
Joining Adv. Gyalson were Executive Councillor for Minority Ghulam Mehdi, Additional District Development Commissioner Sonam Nurboo, Additional Deputy Commissioner Ghulam Mohd, Director LEHO Mohammed Deen, Deputy Director Tashi Thokmat, and notable figures such as All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association President Skarma Delex, ALTOA Leh President Tsewang Dorjay, and other key officials and LEHO board members.
In his keynote address, Chairman/CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson underscored the critical role of the homestay model in bolstering local economies and providing stable income sources for residents. He highlighted the growing demand for nature-centric tourism experiences and advocated for scaling up homestays to meet this trend. Gyalson outlined future plans to collaborate closely with LEHO members to develop a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable tourism, emphasizing the council’s dedication to promoting responsible and eco-friendly travel practices.
Director LEHO Mohammed Deen echoed this sentiment, discussing the ongoing training initiatives designed to enhance the skills of homestay owners with support from village committees. Deen praised Ladakh’s unique natural tourism appeal, distinguishing it from man-made alternatives, and stressed the need for policies that nurture this distinctive attraction. He affirmed LEHO’s commitment to creating a model of responsible tourism that integrates holistic development and sustainable practices.
