Thursday, May 15, 2025

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve in Ladakh Pursues International Recognition; Progress Reviewed by Chief Secretary

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In a bid to establish India’s first Dark Sky Reserve at Hanle in Ladakh as a globally recognized site, Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal has directed the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) to create a roadmap for international accreditation. During a review of the reserve’s progress, he raised concerns about nighttime lighting at nearby army camps and urged for collaboration with defense authorities. Professor Annapurni Subramaniam of the IIA presented ongoing initiatives, including providing telescopes to local villagers, training them as astro-tourism guides, and conducting outreach programs that attracted about 28,000 tourists last year. Dr. Kotwal also emphasized the need for dedicated astronomy training for students and called for cooperation between educational and hospitality institutions to develop integrated courses, while stressing the importance of field assessments and community involvement in the project.

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