Lecture on the Ethnic Identity in Ladakh and People’s Struggle for Scheduled Tribe Status

Lecture on the Ethnic Identity in Ladakh and People’s Struggle for Scheduled Tribe Status In a momentous collaboration under the esteemed banner of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ the Department of Political Science at Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, orchestrated a captivating lecture on October 7, 2023. This event, delved into the Ethnic and Tribal Diversity and their struggle for ST status. The event owed its success to the unwavering support and guidance of its honourable patrons: Ms. Kaneez Fatima, the revered Rector of Kargil Campus, and the venerable Vice-Chancellor, S. K. Mehta, of the University of Ladakh. Their patronage ensured the seamless execution of the program, setting the stage for a memorable and insightful gathering. A distinguished assembly of faculty members, students, and inquisitive minds congregated to engage in significant discussions. This gathering was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Mohd. Taqi, the coordinator of the Department of Political Science and the Dean of Arts at the University of Ladakh, lending an air of prestige to the proceedings. The Special Lecture was delivered by Dr. Konchok Paldan, Assistant Professor of Sociology-Tribal Studies, Kargil Campus (UoL). The speaker highlighted significant events and incidents in the course of struggle. He apprised the audience regarding the leadership role and sacrifice of people to achieve the status. He has presented the statistical informations regarding the tribal communities, their orgin culture and characteristics. He has also apprised about the demographic dividends regaring the co-existance of these commmunities during and after the achievement of the ST status. He has also highlighted the socio-economic developmental impact after getting the ST staus. The event was impeccably organized by Ms. Mahapara student of First Semister and commenced with a warm welcome speech by Ms. Hakima student of Third Semister. The closing remarks were gracefully delivered by Ms. Hakeema Bano Student of First Semister