Thematic Areas and Interventions
In 2020, LNP conducted multi-sectoral needs assessment across Ladakh, in which concept papers were developed for over themes and sub-themes. Subsequently, this was developed in LNP's strategic directions and intended outcomes to respond to challenges in each of the thematic areas.
Economy
With limited resources, short summers, small land-holdings, seasonal and unpredictable tourism, economic prospects in Ladakh are narrow. Additionally, the increasing cost of living, pricier winter stocks, migration, dissatisfied low-paid jobs, conversion of agricultural lands, and unplanned urban-centric development is forcing alterations in the socio-economic and cultural composition of Ladakh. Now, at the very edge of a chaotic transition, LNP aims to aid a recourse before a complete collapse of social, economic and ecological systems.
Society
Ladakh has always had a robust community mechanism to take care of its vulnerable and disadvantaged sections. These mechanisms continue to exist today as well. However, the current pace of development is infringing joint family systems, and an upward migration trend is weakening individual sections, and there is growing income and gender disparities. LNP aims to build local mechanisms and systems to support vulnerable groups.
Environment
Ladakh is among the most fragile ecosystems in the world. Ladakh is also at the forefront of climate change with visible impacts like melting glaciers, changing precipitation patterns and warming weather. The Ladakhi way of life that is intricately tied with nature and ecosystem functions is gravely threaten by unpredictable ecological and climatic changes, endangering food and water security, and communities' overall well-being in the region. LNP aims to enhance adaptive capacity of local communities and build resilience.
Empowerment
For the first time, Ladakh has the opportunity to develop a democratic structure from village to district level under the new Union Territory (UT) administration. To overcome bureaucracy issues, policy formulation hurdles, and decision-making excluding local sensitivities, an appointed committee will detail the 'functional assignment' of LAHDCs in both districts of Ladakh. This would provide a framework for allocating resources to various levels under different sectors and bring out a plan for the region's socio-development issues. LNP hopes to achieve a model of sustainability best-suited for the Ladakhi way of life.
