The Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation, on Monday, sought framing of heritage regulations and guidelines in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The issue was raised when Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) met president of the foundation Dr. Sonam Wangchuk, who also heads the International Association for Ladakh Studies (IALS).
Dr. Wangchuk informed about IALS, which was formed in the 1970s, comprising around 300 professors, students and research scholars. He also informed the LG about the Conference of the IALS which is organised every alternate year.
Dr. Wangchuk said that the 20th edition of the IALS Conference would be held this year from June 8 to 11 at Heidelberg University in Germany. Students and research scholars from different parts of the world have submitted abstract papers on different themes and subjects for the Conference.
He requested financial assistance for students and research scholars from Ladakh for their lodging and boarding so that they could take part in the Conference in Germany.
Dr. Wangchuk apprised the LG of Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation – an NGO run by him in Ladakh for the preservation of culture and heritage. He informed about various works being carried out by his organisation in restoring historical monuments and artefacts in Ladakh and highlighted the need for framing heritage regulations and guidelines in Ladakh.
The LG assured that he would look into the matter.
A delegation from Christian Association Ladakh led by its President, Dechen Chamga, also met the LG at Raj Niwas.
Chamga informed that there are 167 Christians in Ladakh, with churches at Leh, Shey and Khaltse. He also informed that the Christian Association was formed by missionaries from Germany in 1885.
Chamga informed that the Christian missionaries were pioneers in the field of modern education and healthcare services in Ladakh. He also informed about the branches of Moravian Mission School, including the School at Leh where around 900 students are studying. He also informed about various other initiatives taken by them for the overall development of the Ladakhi society.
The LG assured of all possible assistance for the development of the Christian community.