PROJECTS

Indo-German Bilateral Programme

2013-2015

The Indo-German Bilateral Programme aimed to implement solar heating technologies in Ladakh to reduce biomass usage during the harsh winter months when traditional heating methods often led to significant air pollution. GIZ, the German Agency for International Cooperation, collaborated with LEDeG to promote renewable energy solutions that would enhance the quality of life in the region. LEDeG was responsible for selecting sites for solar active heating, surveying local material markets, and managing training programs to educate architects and engineers in solar thermal technologies. The project included retrofitting existing buildings with Trombe walls, improving thermal efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Initial trials were conducted in selected houses, and upon successful results, the program was expanded to additional homes in Ladakh and Kargil. The project not only provided sustainable heating solutions but also raised awareness about the benefits of renewable energy among local communities. By promoting solar heating technologies, the Indo-German Bilateral Programme contributed to reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall sustainability of energy use in Ladakh.

Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM)

2018-2021

The Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) project was launched to address the rapid urbanization and population growth in Leh and Kargil, which strained existing water management systems. LEDeG partnered with BORDA to improve the quality of urban life by implementing a comprehensive water management strategy. The project included training for Public Health and Engineering Department (PHE) staff, who were sent on exposure visits to learn about effective water supply systems. A pilot project for a 24/7 water supply was successfully implemented in Gangles, significantly improving water access for local residents. The initiative also focused on building essential infrastructure, such as hand wash facilities in schools and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities for sanitation workers. Through extensive training programs, municipal workers learned best practices in solid waste management and water quality maintenance. The IUWM project contributed to improved sanitation and hygiene standards in the region while promoting community engagement in water management. Additionally, the project produced valuable documentation, including “Leh Vision 2030,” to outline long-term water management strategies for sustainable urban development.

High Altitude Medicinal Plants Workshop

2019-2021

Liveable, Inclusive and Resilient Himalayan City Project, funded by the European Union, aimed to strengthen the capacities of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) to create a more environmentally friendly and resilient urban center in Leh. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, LEDeG adapted its strategies to include support measures, such as procuring handwashing machines and distributing face masks. The project included capacity-building workshops for local officials to enhance leadership skills and improve city management. Significant progress was made in developing an Eco-Cultural Park, with a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Leh Development Authority. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, LEDeG organized training programs on solid waste management and facilitated international city pairing initiatives. The project also aimed to develop a roadmap for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) related to urban management, including strategies for integrated water management, solid waste management, and public health. Overall, the project has significantly impacted urban sustainability efforts in Leh, fostering greater awareness and community engagement in climate-related issues.

Solarization and Agricultural Improvement

2001

In collaboration with GERES, LEDeG implemented a project to solarize 20 houses in the Solar Housing Colony near Leh. This initiative aimed to enhance energy efficiency and promote the use of renewable energy among local residents. By demonstrating the viability of solar energy as a reliable power source, the project sought to improve living conditions and reduce dependence on traditional, non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, LEDeG focused on valorizing apricot production in Kargil, training local farmers in sustainable agricultural practices and value-added processing techniques. The dual approach of solarization and agricultural improvement not only improved energy access but also boosted the local economy by increasing income from apricot cultivation. Farmers were taught methods for producing apricot-based products, such as jams and dried fruits, enabling them to tap into broader markets. The success of this project underscored the importance of integrating renewable energy solutions with agricultural development, creating synergies that benefited both energy and food security in Ladakh. By empowering local communities through sustainable practices, LEDeG contributed to the region's resilience and overall development.

Improvement of Agriculture Structures

2001

LEDeG revived its ongoing project with BORDA to enhance agricultural structures in Ladakh, focusing on installing hydraulic rams. This initiative aimed to improve irrigation efficiency and support local farmers in increasing crop yields. Traditional methods often limited the agricultural output due to water shortages, and LEDeG recognized the need for innovative solutions. By introducing hydraulic rams, LEDeG enabled farmers to effectively irrigate their land, facilitating the cultivation of a greater variety of crops and improving food security. The project involved selecting suitable locations for the installation of these rams and providing training for local operators to ensure the technology was effectively integrated into agricultural practices. The collaboration with BORDA ensured that the project was adequately funded and supported. The impact was significant, as the hydraulic rams allowed farmers to increase productivity and provided them with the tools needed to adapt to changing environmental conditions. By empowering farmers with modern irrigation solutions, LEDeG contributed to the overall socio-economic upliftment of communities in Ladakh, showcasing the potential for sustainable agricultural practices to foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

High Altitude Medicinal Plants Workshop

2002

LEDeG organized a workshop in collaboration with the Ladakh Amchi & Astro Sabha to identify and document high-altitude medicinal plants. The Amchi system, a traditional form of medicine practiced in Ladakh, relies on knowledge passed down through generations regarding the medicinal properties of local flora. However, the introduction of modern medicine led to the decline of this ancient practice, along with the associated knowledge of indigenous plants. This workshop aimed to revive traditional knowledge and address the increasing number of threatened plant species in the region. During the workshop, 52 Amchis participated in field surveys to identify and collect medicinal plants, resulting in the identification of 12 endangered species. The participants emphasized the importance of cultivating and propagating these plants to preserve traditional medicine. LEDeG's efforts in convening this workshop highlighted its commitment to conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices in Ladakh. By fostering collaboration among local practitioners and raising awareness about the value of medicinal plants, the initiative contributed to the preservation of indigenous knowledge and supported community health practices.

Socio-Economic Improvement

2002

LEDeG proposed the replication of 20 mini-hydro sets across various un-electrified villages to improve the socio-economic situation of local communities. The project aimed to provide renewable energy solutions, enabling villagers to access electricity for lighting and other essential needs. By involving beneficiaries in the implementation process, including contributing to the costs of transmission lines and civil works, LEDeG ensured community ownership and participation. The turbines were developed by the International Engineering and Trading Co. (INTECO), with modifications based on successful Chinese models. Training programs for local operators were also provided to ensure the sustainability of the project. The establishment of Village Electricity Committees (VEC) empowered communities to manage the energy systems effectively. This initiative significantly improved access to electricity, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Furthermore, it created opportunities for income generation through small enterprises and improved access to educational resources. The successful replication of mini-hydro sets exemplified LEDeG's commitment to promoting decentralized renewable energy solutions tailored to the needs of local communities in Ladakh.

Improving Livelihoods through DEWAS

2003-2005

The DEWAS project, a collaboration between LEDeG and BORDA, focused on improving living conditions in remote mountainous regions of Ladakh through decentralized energy and water services. This initiative was crucial for communities that lacked electricity and basic services, which hindered their socio-economic development. The project aimed to provide sustainable solutions that would enhance income-generating opportunities for local communities. By installing hydraulic rams and micro-hydro power units, LEDeG facilitated access to water for irrigation and electricity for households, allowing villagers to cultivate more land and diversify their income sources. The project also included the installation of flour grinding machines and community-sized water heaters, significantly improving the overall quality of life for residents. Training programs for women in traditional crafts such as Pashmina shawl making, wool weaving, and pickle making were organized to promote skills development and income generation. The DEWAS project successfully electrified 11 villages, created Electricity Management Committees, and demonstrated the transformative impact of decentralized solutions on rural livelihoods in Ladakh, ultimately fostering community resilience and empowerment.

Low Energy Consumption (LEC) Housing

2005-2011

The Low Energy Consumption Housing project focused on promoting energy-efficient construction techniques in Ladakh to address the region's harsh climatic conditions. LEDeG collaborated with various stakeholders to develop passive solar housing and energy-efficient designs that minimized energy consumption while maximizing comfort. Through training programs, masons and carpenters learned innovative construction methods, including the use of local thermal insulation and double-glazed windows, which effectively retained heat during winter. The project successfully built 570 energy-efficient homes, significantly improving living conditions for residents while reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, the project supported local handicrafts by integrating traditional practices into modern building techniques. In 2011, LEDeG received the "NGO of the Year" award by CNN-IBN for its outstanding contributions to sustainable housing practices. The initiative highlighted the importance of sustainable building designs in enhancing the quality of life in Ladakh and served as a model for future energy-efficient construction projects in similar high-altitude regions. By fostering local expertise and promoting sustainable practices, the project contributed to the long-term resilience of communities in Ladakh.

Waste Flow Diagram for Kargil

Ongoing

This project focuses on designing a comprehensive waste flow diagram for Kargil, aiming to map the entire lifecycle of waste. It will trace waste movement from its generation sources, such as households, markets, industries, and institutions, through collection methods to its final treatment and disposal pathways. The diagram will offer a clear visual representation of existing practices, highlighting inefficiencies and critical areas for improvement. By identifying key stakeholders, including waste generators, collectors, and disposal facilities, the project will provide a holistic understanding of the system. It will also evaluate the types and quantities of waste, segregation practices, and the role of informal sectors in waste management. The insights from the waste flow diagram will enable data-driven decision-making to optimize waste management. Potential benefits include improving collection efficiency, promoting recycling initiatives, and reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal. Moreover, the project will emphasize sustainable practices, such as composting, material recovery, and minimizing landfill dependency. This initiative addresses critical environmental challenges in Kargil, ensuring better planning and implementation of waste management policies.

Sanitation Safety Planning (SSP) Tool for Leh

Ongoing

The Sanitation Safety Planning (SSP) tool is being developed to address risks in the sanitation chain in Leh, ensuring safer and more sustainable waste management practices. This tool is designed to identify potential hazards at each stage of the sanitation process, including waste collection, treatment, and disposal. By systematically assessing these risks, the project aims to mitigate health and environmental hazards while enhancing the overall efficiency of the sanitation chain. Key objectives of the SSP tool include improving hygiene, protecting public health, and aligning with national sanitation standards. The tool prioritizes the identification of critical control points, enabling the implementation of targeted safety measures. It also emphasizes stakeholder engagement, ensuring that local communities, sanitation workers, and governing bodies are actively involved in the planning and execution process.

By promoting safer sanitation practices, the SSP tool aims to reduce the risk of disease transmission, improve waste management systems, and enhance environmental sustainability. Additionally, it supports capacity-building initiatives through training programs for local stakeholders, fostering long-term adoption of safe sanitation practices.

Integrated Solid Waste Management System in Kargil

Ongoing

Key objectives of the SSP tool include improving hygiene, protecting public health, and aligning with national sanitation standards. The tool prioritizes the identification of critical control points, enabling the implementation of targeted safety measures. It also emphasizes stakeholder engagement, ensuring that local communities, sanitation workers, and governing bodies are actively involved in the planning and execution process.

Integrated Hydro Energy Development Project

1995-1999

The Integrated Hydro Energy Development Project, executed in collaboration with BORDA, aimed to enhance irrigation and agricultural productivity for subsistence farmers in Ladakh. Recognizing that overuse of traditional water mills led to delays in grain processing, LEDeG introduced hydraulic rams equipped with Multi-Purpose Power Unit (MPPU) turbines, which improved the efficiency of water mills threefold. This innovation allowed farmers to grind months’ worth of grains in just 6-7 days, significantly enhancing food security. The project targeted 20 villages across Leh and Kargil, installing hydraulic rams and supporting local craftsmen with additional attachments such as table saws and wood turning lathes. Notable installations included units in Turtuk and Wanla, which helped artisans improve their craftsmanship and income. In Bodkharboo, a unit with an alternator provided electricity to 10 families, demonstrating the dual benefits of improved irrigation and energy access. By 1999, the project successfully installed 23 out of the 27 planned units, reflecting a strong demand for this technology. This project not only increased agricultural productivity but also empowered local communities by fostering self-sufficiency and resilience through sustainable energy solutions.

Improved Watermill Project

1997

LEDeG launched the "Dissemination and Transfer of Improved Watermill" project funded by CAPART to enhance the efficiency of traditional water mills used for grinding staple crops like wheat and barley. With the primary goal of addressing the challenges faced by Ladakhi families during the harvest season, the project introduced a Multi-Purpose Power Unit (MPPU) turbine that improved the overall efficiency of water mills by three times compared to traditional models. This innovation enabled farmers to grind substantial quantities of grain in just 6-7 days, significantly reducing delays and increasing productivity. The project included the installation of improved watermills in 20 selected villages across Leh and Kargil. Additionally, LEDeG equipped these mills with attachments such as table saws, wood turning lathes, and alternators, improving the working conditions for craftsmen. For instance, in Turtuk, the installation of a unit in a stone potter’s workshop elevated the craftsman’s income by diversifying services offered to the community. The success of this initiative demonstrated the effectiveness of modern technology in enhancing traditional practices, leading to increased demand for improved watermills throughout the region.

Seabuckthorn Research and Development

1997

LEDeG took significant steps towards researching and developing seabuckthorn, a wild indigenous plant known as “Tsermang” in Ladakh. Historically, locals utilized seabuckthorn primarily for fencing and fodder, neglecting its high nutritional and ecological value. Inspired by an international workshop held in China in 1995, LEDeG recognized the potential of seabuckthorn to improve local livelihoods and initiated a research project focused on its uses. The organization began producing various products, including jams, juices, and chocolates, and held training programs to educate local communities on processing techniques. In 1997, LEDeG gained national membership at the International Center for Research and Training on Seabuckthorn (ICRTS), positioning itself as a pioneer in this field within Ladakh. During an international meeting in Turku, Finland, LEDeG presented its findings and products, highlighting the nutritional benefits and environmental significance of seabuckthorn. The project's success not only raised awareness about this valuable plant but also emphasized the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with sustainable practices. Although LEDeG no longer commercializes seabuckthorn products, its initial efforts laid the groundwork for future exploration of this plant's economic potential in Ladakh.

Fruit Processing Initiative

2000

In a bid to empower local communities in Ladakh, LEDeG launched a fruit processing initiative after acquiring a food processing license. The project aimed to enhance the value of local agricultural products, particularly apricots and seabuckthorn, through training programs for local men and women. These training sessions focused on various preservation techniques, including osmosis drying, jam production, and juice extraction. By providing access to essential machinery and packaging materials, LEDeG facilitated the efficient processing of fruits, enabling producers to market their products effectively. The initiative played a crucial role in addressing food security by preserving seasonal fruits for year-round consumption, thus reducing waste and increasing local income. LEDeG acted as a market facilitator, purchasing processed products at fixed prices and distributing them to tourists and other consumers both locally and across India. The success of this initiative demonstrated the potential of sustainable agricultural practices to generate income and promote self-reliance among rural communities. By fostering skills development and creating new market opportunities, the fruit processing project became a vital component of LEDeG's efforts to improve livelihoods and preserve Ladakhi culture through sustainable practices.

DanChurchAid (DCA) Collaboration

1988

DanChurchAid (DCA), a renowned humanitarian organization, began cooperating with LEDeG on the Appropriate Technology and Environment Project (ATEP). The project was initiated in response to the growing threats to traditional ways of life in Ladakh, driven by external influences such as over-subsidization and increased tourism. The aim was to provide an alternative development strategy that would improve the material well-being of villagers without compromising their cultural values. ATEP sought to enhance living standards through the installation of micro-hydro schemes, which provided electric light, improved space heating, and facilitated irrigation for agriculture. Over the course of the project, from 1989 to 1996, LEDeG successfully constructed 15 micro-hydro plants, 50 ram pumps, and numerous solar water heating systems. Additionally, the project included training programs to promote local handicrafts, establishing village production centers and cooperatives, which enabled community members to market their products both locally and beyond. Through regular meetings and educational initiatives, LEDeG raised awareness about the importance of traditional culture and the dangers of rapid modernization, fostering a more sustainable and culturally respectful approach to development in Ladakh.

BORDA and LEDeG Collaboration

1988-1991

The Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) partnered with LEDeG to improve the socio-economic conditions in environmentally endangered areas of Ladakh. This collaboration focused on sustainable development, with a particular emphasis on addressing the challenges posed by climate change and resource depletion. Through a series of projects funded by grants from the Central European University and BORDA, the initiative aimed to enhance community resilience and promote eco-friendly technologies. Key activities included the installation of micro-hydro systems and the development of water and sanitation facilities, which were vital for improving health and living conditions in rural areas. LEDeG played a crucial role in training local communities in the operation and maintenance of these technologies, ensuring sustainability and community ownership. The collaboration not only provided immediate benefits in terms of improved water access and energy but also laid the groundwork for ongoing engagement with local communities to promote ecological sustainability and socio-economic development. This partnership exemplified the importance of international cooperation in addressing local challenges and fostering sustainable practices in vulnerable regions like Ladakh.

Solar Energy project

1978

Helena Norberg-Hodge initiated a solar energy pilot project in Ladakh, introducing innovative technologies like Trombe walls and solar ovens. The objective was to empower local communities by promoting sustainable energy solutions that catered to the unique environmental conditions of the region. This project marked the beginning of a broader movement aimed at preserving Ladakhi culture while integrating modern, ecologically sustainable practices. By 1983, along with co-founders Tsewang Rigzin Lakruk and Sonam Dawa, Norberg-Hodge officially registered the Ladakh Ecological Development Group (LEDeG), focusing on ecological preservation and cultural sustainability. The headquarters of LEDeG were inaugurated in 1984 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and consecrated by the Dalai Lama, symbolizing a significant commitment to sustainable development in Ladakh. The early initiatives laid the groundwork for LEDeG’s future projects, including hydraulic ram pumps for irrigation and improved water mills. These efforts significantly enhanced agricultural productivity and contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of the region, demonstrating the potential for sustainable solutions in addressing local challenges.