LEH: Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena and His Eminence Kyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche participated in the prestigious SAMVAD Round Table 2026, organised by the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) in New Delhi.
Both distinguished spiritual leaders from Ladakh addressed the international gathering and shared their perspectives on the significance of spirituality, India’s ancient wisdom traditions and the role of spiritual values in addressing contemporary global challenges.
The international roundtable brought together an eminent assembly of spiritual leaders, Buddhist masters, religious scholars and representatives of diverse spiritual traditions from India and several countries, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Japan, Mongolia, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Nepal. The gathering provided an important platform for interfaith dialogue, the exchange of spiritual perspectives and collective reflection on some of the most pressing challenges confronting humanity.
Addressing the gathering, Ven. Bhikkhu Sanghasena observed that we are presently living in the Century of Asia and, within Asia, he described it as the Spiritual Century. He emphasised the importance of recognising and reviving Asia’s profound spiritual heritage and its potential to guide humanity towards a more peaceful, compassionate and harmonious future.
He further added, Both Hinduism and Buddhism were born in India and have travelled across the world, sharing a deep and profound cultural, spiritual and philosophical relationship. The time has come to rise beyond the boundaries of our respective sects, traditions and followers, and come together with a shared commitment to world peace and human harmony.
The timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world is one family, holds the wisdom that can help save our world. We must move beyond seeing one another as different and begin recognising that, at our very core, we are all one global family, bound by our shared humanity.
In support of his perspective, he quoted Mahatma Gandhi, who once observed: “It is impossible for Hindu India today to retrace her steps and go behind the great reformation that Lord Buddha effected in Hinduism.”
Through this powerful historical reference, Bhikkhu Sanghasena highlighted the enduring influence of the Buddha’s teachings on India’s spiritual and philosophical traditions. He underscored the relevance of Buddhist wisdom and its universal message of compassion, non-violence, peace and understanding in addressing the challenges of the contemporary world.
His Eminence Kyabje Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche also addressed the gathering, sharing his perspectives on the importance of spiritual wisdom and the relevance of ancient traditions in guiding humanity in the modern age. He further emphasised the need to inculcate spiritual values among the youth, stating that they are the future of the world and must be guided by wisdom, compassion and a strong moral foundation.
His participation further enriched the dialogue, bringing the voice and spiritual heritage of Ladakh to this distinguished international platform.
The SAMVAD initiative is an international endeavour inspired by the dialogue between the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe. It seeks to draw upon the rich spiritual and philosophical heritage of Asia to address contemporary global challenges, particularly conflict, environmental degradation and their consequences for human civilisation. The initiative aims to promote a new paradigm of leadership rooted in mutual understanding, acceptance, compassion and universal responsibility.
The 2026 roundtable witnessed the participation of several distinguished international spiritual personalities, including Most Most Ven. Madampagama Assaji Tissa Mahanayaka Thera of Sri Lanka, Most Ven. Thich Nhat Tu of Vietnam, Ven. Dr. Gankhuyag Magsarjav of Mongolia, Ven. Prof. Dr. Karma Tashi Choedron of Malaysia, Ven. Dhammadipa Ila of South Korea, and numerous eminent Hindu spiritual leaders and representatives of other Indic traditions.
The proceedings commenced with a welcome address by General Anil Chauhan, Former Chief of Defence Staff and Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation, followed by the opening remarks by S. Gurumurthy, Chairman of VIF. The programme also featured an interactive session, providing participating spiritual leaders an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore collective approaches towards building a more peaceful, compassionate and sustainable world. The delegates also visited the Piprahwa Relics Museum.
The SAMVAD initiative has a distinguished history of bringing together spiritual and intellectual leaders across Asia. Its first edition was organised in New Delhi in September 2015 and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, culminating in the adoption of the Bodhgaya Declaration. Subsequent editions were held in Yangon, Myanmar (2017), Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (2019), and Bangkok and Krabi, Thailand (2025), resulting in the adoption of the Yangon, Ulaanbaatar and Thailand Declarations respectively. The gathering also coincides with the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Chinmaya Mission.
Prohibition on chemical fertilisers and organic certification drive mark major milestones in Ladakh’s transformation towards environment-friendly farming LEH: In a historic milestone for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has declared the Union Territory of Ladakh India’s first 100% Organic Union Territory, recognising its farmers' dedication and the Administration’s sustained efforts to promote chemical-free farming. The achievement marks a significant step towards protecting Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem, improving soil and water health, enhancing farmers’ incomes and ensuring a healthier future for generations to come. Building on its traditional farming practices and unique agro-ecological conditions, Ladakh is positioning itself as a model for sustainable high-altitude agriculture. The development also reinforces Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of promoting natural farming, environmental conservation, improving soil health and climate-resilient agriculture. Congratulating the farmers and all stakeholders, the Lieutenant Governor said, “This is a moment of immense pride for Ladakh and the entire nation. Our farmers have demonstrated that environmentally responsible agriculture can flourish even in the most challenging geographical conditions. Becoming a fully organic Union Territory is not merely a milestone; it is a commitment to protecting our fragile Himalayan ecosystem, preserving our traditional farming practices and ensuring better livelihoods for our farmers.” Notably, in a major policy intervention in July 2026, the Lieutenant Governor has ordered a complete prohibition on the procurement, distribution, sale, marketing and use of chemical and synthetic fertilisers for agricultural practices across Ladakh. The move is aimed at safeguarding organic certification, protecting soil and water resources and strengthening the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector. The Administration has also taken steps to support farmers during the transition. In March 2026, consignments of organic fertiliser were flagged off for distribution among farmers across villages of Ladakh to ensure timely availability before the sowing season. The organic transition is expected to create new opportunities for Ladakh’s farmers by improving the value of locally grown organic produce, including apricots, sea buckthorn, buckwheat, barley and vegetables. Organic certification, better post-harvest management, value addition, branding and stronger market linkages can help farmers access consumers who increasingly seek authentic, traceable and organically produced food. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the achievement must translate into tangible benefits for the farming community. “Our goal is to ensure that the organic status of Ladakh brings real value to our farmers through better market access, improved price realisation and sustainable livelihoods. We must combine traditional wisdom with scientific support, strengthen organic value chains and protect our natural resources. Let Ladakh’s achievement inspire other States and Union Territories to adopt sustainable agriculture in accordance with their own geographical conditions and farming traditions,” he said.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to buy products made by local artisans and strengthen the 'Vocal for Local' initiative as the country gears up to celebrate Diwali. In his monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', he also highlighted the success of Indian products in international markets. Bihar's 'makhana' and Karnataka's 'arhar dal' are finding new markets across the world, while Maharashtra's tribal products are gaining recognition through packaging that reflects the richness of tribal art, Modi said. "The popularity of Khadi is growing, supporting the artisans whose skills keep our traditions alive. Let's strengthen 'Vocal for Local' by choosing products made by our local artisans," he said. Modi also spoke about the revival of traditional farming practices in Punjab, noting that an organisation named 'Kheti Virasat Mission' has started breathing new life into organic farming. He said the people in this team wanted to promote natural cotton farming in Punjab's Malwa region and named the initiative 'Nav-Trinjan'. "Under this initiative, organic cotton is grown without the use of chemicals. Cotton with natural colours is also grown here, so no separate chemicals are needed to dye the yarn and fabrics made from it," he said. During the broadcast, Modi also spoke about people in Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand coming together to breathe new life into the Heval river. A few years ago, he said, the water in the Heval river had started to dwindle, and the natural water sources around it were also drying up. Modi said that in such a situation, the local administration and villagers joined hands to launch a campaign to save the Heval river. "During this effort, measures were taken to capture rainwater, work was done to channel water into the soil, and a large number of plants were planted. Today, thanks to this initiative, the Heval river has received a new lease of life, and it has also helped revive dozens of natural water sources," he said. In his radio broadcast, the prime minister also said that 'Mann Ki Baat' was a "pilgrimage" for him to closely know the efforts of the country's people and pay homage to their contributions.
New Delhi: The European Union and India are intensely engaged to meet the December deadline for signing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to coincide with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected Brussels visit as the European Commission proposed a “fast-track procedure” to its Council for expeditious approval, people in the know said. The European Commission (EC) has urged the Council of the European Union (informally, the Council of Ministers) to approve the proposed FTA announced on January 27 through a fast-track procedure laid out by trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic to speed up its implementation under prevailing turbulent global geopolitical situation, they said requesting anonymity. The Commission proposed to complete the legal process based on the original English version of the FTA, rather than waiting for translating the document in 24 EU official languages, which could delay the ratification process by over one year, they said. Both sides want to sign the agreement around December 17 or 18 in Brussels during Modi’s expected visit while returning from his proposed G20 meeting in Miami (USA), they said. After the Council (representing 27 members of the bloc) approves the FTA concluded on January 27, India and the EU would be able to sign the agreement. Things are moving at a fast pace from both ends, but all timelines are still fluid unless announced officially, they added. Meanwhile, commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal is expected in Brussels this week to resolve procedural issues. His visit follows the recent European tour of commerce minister Piyush Goyal, they said. Goyal is visiting two key EU nations -- Germany and the Netherlands -- between October 22 and October 27. In a social media post on Saturday, Goyal said that he “emphasised the transformative potential of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement in expanding market access, strengthening supply chains, and creating new avenues for trade and investment,” during his visit. In Germany he met the country’s federal minister for economic affairs and energy, Katherina Reiche, and the economic and financial policy advisor at the German Federal Chancellery, Levin Holle, according to a commerce ministry’s statement.
No significant weather activity forecast till month-end; Nyoma records minus 5.8°C LEH: Ladakh is likely to experience mainly clear to partly cloudy weather from October 26 onwards, with no significant weather activity forecast across the Union Territory until the end of October, according to the weather update issued by the Meteorological Centre, Leh. The forecast indicates a relatively stable weather pattern for the remaining days of the month, following cloudy and cold conditions prevailing across most parts of Ladakh. The outlook for October 25–31 points towards mainly clear to partly cloudy skies throughout the region. The MeT Centre has also indicated no forecast of major snowfall across Ladakh during the forecast period. Meanwhile, the sharp fall in temperatures in several areas has underlined the growing intensity of the cold as Ladakh moves deeper into autumn. Nyoma recorded the lowest minimum temperature at minus 5.8°C in the October 24 weather bulletin, followed by Drass at minus 1.5°C, Padum at minus 1.3°C and Leh at minus 0.5°C. Other recorded minimum temperatures included minus 2.2°C at Tangtse, 0.3°C at Hunder (Nubra) and Saliskote, 0.9°C at Upshi, 2.9°C at Kargil, 5.5°C at Khaltsi and 7.9°C at Garkom. The temperature variation across the region highlights the contrasting local conditions, with several high-altitude and exposed areas already experiencing sub-zero nights even as some locations continue to record minimum temperatures above freezing. The MeT Centre has advised residents to take precautions against frost damage, particularly to vegetables and other frost-sensitive items. Such produce should be kept indoors or adequately covered during the night to minimise the risk of damage from falling temperatures. Farmers and households engaged in seasonal cultivation have been urged to remain cautious as colder nights set in. The advisory comes at a time when frost can affect exposed crops, household gardens and other vulnerable vegetation in areas prone to sharp overnight temperature drops. According to the advisory, no weather-related flight cancellations were anticipated through the end of October. Weather conditions were described as stable for outdoor activities during the forecast period. However, the MeT Centre has reminded travellers and those visiting mountainous areas that weather can change quickly in the mountains and urged them to remain alert and follow weather updates. The bulletin also indicated that a feeble western disturbance was affecting Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to the prevailing weather conditions. No heavy rainfall or snowfall warning was issued in the bulletin, with the heavy rainfall/snowfall warning section marked “Nil”.
Kargil: The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) today held a press conference in Kargil, expressing serious concern and disappointment over the lack of clarity regarding the meeting held with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on October 22, 2026, and the alleged failure to fulfil assurances made by the Ministry. During the press conference, KDA representatives stated that there had been no clear information or satisfactory outcome communicated regarding the October 22 meeting with the MHA. They also expressed disappointment over what they described as the failure of the Ministry to honour its earlier commitments and assurances. The Alliance emphasized that the people of Ladakh have been waiting for meaningful progress on their long-pending demands and legitimate rights. It stressed that the assurances given by the authorities must be translated into concrete action rather than remaining unfulfilled promises. KDA further warned that if the present situation continues and the concerns of the people remain unaddressed, the Kargil Democratic Alliance, along with the Apex Body Leh, may be compelled to launch democratic protests and take to the streets to press for their legitimate demands. The representatives asserted that the Alliance would continue its struggle through democratic and peaceful means to safeguard the constitutional and legal rights of the people of Ladakh. They also indicated that stronger forms of public agitation, including a shutdown if necessary, could be considered should the authorities fail to respond positively. The Kargil Democratic Alliance reiterated its commitment to pursuing the people's demands and urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to fulfil its assurances and take concrete steps towards resolving the outstanding issues. The Alliance maintained that it would not abandon its struggle for the legitimate rights and aspirations of the people of Ladakh and would continue to raise its voice until meaningful progress is achieved.
Skarma Namtak demands representation for all eight districts, more LAHDC constituencies in remote regions and district status for Durbuk LEH: Voice of Buddhist Ladakh (VBL) has called for the immediate reconstitution of Ladakh’s High Powered Committee (HPC) with democratically elected representatives from all eight districts, asserting that the region’s diverse geographical, developmental and community concerns must receive fair and balanced representation in discussions with the Central Government. Addressing a press conference, Convenor Skarma Namtak, flanked by other leaders of the organisation, outlined VBL’s major demands concerning Ladakh’s political representation, administrative arrangements and regional development. The organisation has also strongly opposed the proposal to shift the Union Territory headquarters and High Court Bench between Leh and Kargil on a rotational basis, sought an increase in LAHDC constituencies in Sham, Nubra and Zanskar, and demanded the creation of a separate district for Durbuk. The demands have been formally submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah through a memorandum dated October 24, 2026, with copies forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Secretary of Ladakh for information and necessary action. Making a strong case for restructuring the HPC, Namtak said the existing committee was constituted in 2020, before the creation of the new districts, and no longer adequately reflects Ladakh’s present administrative and geographical realities. According to the memorandum, the present HPC, which includes representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), is not a democratically elected body representing all regions of Ladakh. VBL has alleged that the existing arrangement has failed to facilitate consensus and, instead, has allowed the interests of particular regions, communities and political parties to dominate discussions. The organisation maintained that negotiations concerning Ladakh’s future must not be confined to a limited set of representatives or organisations. With the creation of additional districts, it argued, the administrative and political landscape has changed substantially, necessitating a fresh and more inclusive arrangement. VBL has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to reconstitute the HPC by ensuring democratically elected representation from all eight districts so that every region and community can place its concerns and aspirations before the committee. Namtak’s demand comes amid continuing discussions over constitutional safeguards, political representation and the future administrative framework of Ladakh. VBL has emphasised that a credible negotiating mechanism must command wider regional representation and ensure that decisions are not perceived as favouring particular interests. Raising the issue of representation in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs), VBL has demanded an increase in the number of constituencies in Sham, Nubra and Zanskar. The organisation cited the vast geographical spread of these regions, difficult terrain, scattered populations and distinct developmental requirements as reasons for a more balanced distribution of elected representatives. According to VBL, the present distribution of constituencies needs to be examined to determine whether it adequately reflects the ground realities of remote and geographically challenging areas. The organisation argued that effective democratic representation is particularly important in regions where residents face considerable distances, difficult travel conditions and limited access to administrative centres. An appropriate increase in constituencies, it said, would improve administrative accessibility and enable elected representatives to respond more effectively to local requirements. VBL has called upon the authorities to review the existing constituency distribution and take corrective measures to ensure that remote regions receive representation proportionate to their geographical and developmental needs. One of the most contentious issues raised by VBL is its categorical opposition to the proposal, reportedly advanced by some leaders from Kargil, to shift the Union Territory headquarters and High Court Bench between Leh and Kargil on a rotational basis. …