Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Ladakh Conducts Cleanliness Drive at Nubra Valley to Commemorate Gandhi Jayanti

𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐤𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐍𝐮𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐢 𝐉𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢: 02nd October 2024: On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, the Department of Geography and Environmental Science (EVS), in collaboration with the NSS Unit of Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, organized a Special Cleanliness Drive at the iconic Nubra Valley Sand Dunes. The initiative was held to honor the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, and to contribute to the ongoing nationwide Swachh Bharat Abhiyan under the theme Swachhta Hi Seva (Cleanliness is Service). This year’s theme, Swabhav Swachhta, Sanskaar Swachhta (Nature of Cleanliness, Values of Cleanliness), emphasized instilling values of cleanliness both as a natural habit and a social responsibility. The event saw enthusiastic participation from both students and faculty members, showcasing their collective commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment in one of Ladakh’s most breathtaking landscapes. The cleanliness drive was part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas such as Nubra Valley. Through this activity, participants not only engaged in cleaning the sand dunes but also raised awareness about the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the region for future generations. The Swachhta Hi Seva campaign, launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi as part of the larger Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, aims to promote cleanliness as a civic duty and encourages citizens to actively participate in cleaning public spaces. By integrating this initiative with their ongoing field study tour, the Departments of Geography and Environmental Science further highlighted the connection between education, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. The Geography and EVS Joint field study tour, which commenced on September 30, 2024, includes academic exploration of Nubra Valley and its surrounding areas, focusing on the region's unique geographical and environmental characteristics. The tour is scheduled to conclude on October 5, 2024, and will provide students with invaluable insights into the region’s ecosystem, further reinforcing the importance of preserving such pristine environments. The cleanliness drive was not just a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of cleanliness and service but also a step towards fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among students. Through activities like these, the University of Ladakh continues to emphasize the importance of balancing academic inquiry with social responsibility, ensuring that students not only gain knowledge but also contribute positively to society.