Melting Realities: The Urgent Need For A Glacial Law And Governance Framework In India

Event Report

This program is part of the official launch of the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation (IYGP 2025) on January 21, 2025, commemorating the collaborative efforts led by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and UNESCO. In acknowledgment of the urgent need for global action to safeguard glaciers, snow, and ice, the UN General Assembly has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and has designated March 21st as the annual World Day for Glaciers, beginning this year. In alignment with these global initiatives, the IMPRI Center for Environment, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development proudly presents this panel discussion titled “Melting Realties: The Urgent Need for Glacial Law and Governance Framework in India” as part of its Web Policy Talk series, fostering informed dialogue on this critical environmental challenge.

The discussion was moderated by Ms Bhargavi S Rao, Independent Researcher & Educator, Environment Activist, Bengaluru; Visiting Senior Fellow (Honorary), IMPRI. In her opening remarks Ms Rao touched upon the accelerated impact of climate change and environmental degradation on the galciers and the need for its preservation and governance. She explained Glaciers are not just frozen landscapes; they are life-sustaining forces, particularly in the Himalayan region, often referred to as the Third Pole. Feeding major rivers such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus, which are essential for agriculture, drinking water, and energy production, sustaining millions of lives across South Asia.

However, global warming is causing these glaciers to recede at alarming rates, posing devastating threats to water security, biodiversity, and livelihoods. Despite existing climate action and water management efforts, a dedicated glacial governance framework remains absent in India. Ms Rao mentioned that now more than ever, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive governance model, one that focuses on monitoring and mitigating glacial loss, protecting fragile ecosystems and vulnerable communities, ensuring sustainable water resource management, and safeguarding regional stability.

This discussion serves as a crucial step toward raising awareness and driving collective action. The momentum of the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025 (IYGP 2025) provides an unprecedented opportunity to shape innovative policies and practices that will secure the future of our glaciers and by extension, our planet.

Ms Rao brought forward the pressing challenges communities in the Himalayan region face, particularly agricultural societies, that are already experiencing rapid shifts in climate patterns, disrupting agricultural cycles and threatening the region’s economy, which is heavily dependent on glacial-fed water systems. Addressing these challenges requires preparedness, resilience, and proactive governance. So, what does it mean to be responsible, to be prepared, and to take action? How can ongoing scientific research translate into tangible policies? And importantly, how can the global community, including the Global North, collaborate and support these initiatives, recognizing that the responsibility extends beyond the countries in and around the Himalayas?

Setting the discussion’s flow, Ms. Rao raised pressing questions that required urgent exploration, followed by Dr. Tsewang Namgail, Director and Senior Scientist at the Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust, who initiated the panel discussion. Dr Namgail explained the scientific evidence for Glacier preservation in the Himalayas. He started by elucidating that Glaciers serve as the lifeline for numerous people residing in the higher regions of the Himalayas, the Tibetan Plateau, and other high-altitude areas across the globe. The ecological significance of the Himalayan glaciers is immense, supporting a variety of species, including mammals, birds, butterflies, and humans.

The Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the Third Pole, contain a high concentration of glaciers. These glaciers play a crucial role in sustaining avian species that navigate through the region. Migratory birds, such as the Bar-headed Goose—the highest-flying bird—cross these formidable mountains, relying on river valleys like the Sulage River Valley and the Brahmaputra for passage. Other species that navigate these corridors include the previous record holder for high-altitude flight, the Ruppell’s Griffon.

The network of rivers originating from the high Himalayas, including the Yarlung Tsangpo (which becomes the Brahmaputra), the Ganges, and the Indus, create vital wetlands that facilitate bird migration. These wetlands support species such as the Ibisbill and the Black-necked Crane, particularly in the eastern parts of Ladakh.

Dr Namgail emphasized Glacier’s pivotal role in supporting mammalian species like the Snow Leopard, which requires snow-covered habitats for survival. The Wild Yak and Ladakh Urial similarly depend on glacial rivers and streams. The Ladakh Urial, in particular, has been observed coming downstream to the Indus River in search of water, highlighting the increasing scarcity of natural water sources.

The Indus River Dolphin, which was historically found as far upstream as Ladakh, has disappeared from the region due to receding water levels, although a small population persists downstream in Pakistan. Other aquatic species, including the Eurasian Otter, Snow Trouts, and Tibetan Snow Trouts, are crucial to the Indus River’s ecosystem. However, introduced species like Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout from Kashmir have contributed to the decline of native fish populations. Human activities, such as water diversion for agriculture, further threaten these species by obstructing their migration routes.

Shifting the discussion on glacier preservation that sustains the biodiversity, Dr Namgail touched upon the economic reliability of Glaciers. Tourism, particularly white-water rafting, also depends on glacial meltwater. As glaciers retreat, reducing water levels, this industry faces significant challenges. The Dung Dung and Parkachik glaciers in the Zanskar Valley have shown alarming retreat, with some receding up to 140 meters between 1979 and 1990. The formation of glacial lakes at the base of melting glaciers poses a major risk, with the potential for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Ladakh has already experienced several GLOFs in the past decade, highlighting the urgency of monitoring these developments.

Dr Namgail’s discussion on the glacier reliance in the upper mountain regions helped understand that the other critical component of the cryosphere in the Himalayas is permafrost. The gradual degradation of permafrost is leading to the drying up of numerous small springs that once served as vital water sources. This has forced several species, including the Ladakh Urial, Blue Sheep, and Tibetan Argali, to migrate to lower altitudes and depend increasingly on the Indus River for water. Permafrost not only serves as a frozen reservoir that regulates water availability but also provides stability to the fragile mountain terrain. As it thaws, it contributes to soil erosion and increases the likelihood of landslides. Additionally, permafrost melting has implications for infrastructure, as roads and settlements built on previously stable ground are now becoming vulnerable to subsidence.

However, efforts are underway to engage students from colleges and universities in Ladakh to monitor these glacial lakes and raise awareness about the potential hazards. But given these alarming trends, immediate attention is required to formulate policies and legislative measures for glacial preservation. The ongoing retreat of glaciers, the impact on biodiversity, and the growing risks of natural disasters underscore the urgent need for action to safeguard the ecological balance of the Himalayan region.

The discussion was then shifted to further understand the environmental perspective in Glacier preservation that was taken up by Mr Soumya Dutta, Founding co-convener, SAPACC (South Asian People’s Action on Climate Crisis); Former Advisory Board member, UN Climate Technology Centre & Network; Visiting Senior Fellow, IMPRI. Mr Dutta emphasized that the protection of glaciers is an urgent environmental concern, with discussions on this issue taking place at multiple international forums, including COP 28. However, despite numerous meetings and proposals, progress on actionable measures remains slow. The cryosphere, which includes glaciers, is critical not only for human survival but also for the sustenance of numerous species. Addressing the primary cause of glacial loss—the accumulation of anthropogenic greenhouse gases—is essential, as laws alone cannot prevent the disintegration and fragmentation of glaciers. The urgency of this issue necessitates immediate intervention.

In the Himalayas, one of the most pressing concerns is Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Recent studies on the Satluj River indicate that the number of glacial lakes has nearly doubled in the last five years, increasing from approximately 556 to over 1,020. This trend is observed across multiple regions and poses a significant threat, not just to glaciers but to the entire cryosphere worldwide. Countries such as Argentina and Chile have taken legislative steps to protect glaciers, though the effectiveness of these measures remains a subject of study.

One of the key factors accelerating glacier loss is the positive feedback loop caused by changes in albedo. Snow and ice typically have an albedo of approximately 0.9, meaning 90% of incoming solar radiation is reflected back into space. However, when ice melts and exposes the underlying ground, the albedo drops to approximately 0.17-0.2, resulting in greater absorption of solar energy and further accelerating ice melt. This amplifying feedback cycle is evident across various glacial regions, including the Himalayas, Patagonia, and the European Alps. As a result, the rate of glacier loss is not only increasing but is itself accelerating due to these compounding effects.

Another major concern is the exposure of organic matter previously trapped under permafrost. As glaciers retreat, organic material within the soil becomes exposed and begins to degrade. This process often occurs under anoxic conditions, leading to the release of methane, a greenhouse gas that is 87 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. The localized buildup of methane exacerbates warming, further contributing to glacial melt and creating another dangerous feedback loop. These amplifying cycles necessitate strict control over activities near glacial regions.

While environmental protection is a priority, there are conflicting interests that must be addressed. Glaciers serve as key attractions for tourism, which supports local economies, particularly in the Himalayas. Heavy tourist inflow, often spurred by snowfall events, significantly impacts local environments. The economic dependence of local communities on tourism makes it essential to balance environmental conservation with livelihoods. Managing these conflicts requires inclusive decision-making and the active involvement of affected communities.

Tourism and associated activities also contribute significantly to black carbon deposition on glaciers, which accelerates melting. The Western Himalayas, in particular, are heavily impacted by pollution from diesel vehicles and biomass burning. Diesel engines emit considerably more black carbon than petrol engines, and in regions such as Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, thousands of diesel vehicles operate daily. This soot settles on ice and snow, lowering the albedo and intensifying glacier melt. Addressing these emissions, even in the absence of specific glacier protection laws, can have a positive impact on slowing ice loss.

Legal frameworks for environmental protection exist in India, such as the Forest Conservation Act and the Wildlife Protection Act. However, these laws often face challenges when they conflict with corporate and economic interests. Conservation areas frequently experience encroachment and degradation due to mining and other industrial activities. Even if comprehensive glacier protection laws are enacted, their effectiveness will be undermined unless mechanisms are put in place to insulate them from powerful economic interests.

Comparing international approaches to glacier protection offers valuable insights. Argentina has implemented glacier protection laws, and countries like Chile and Uzbekistan are considering similar frameworks. However, the demographic and socio-economic contexts of the Indian Himalayas differ significantly from these regions. Unlike sparsely populated glacial regions elsewhere, millions of people depend on the Himalayan cryosphere for their livelihoods. Any legislative framework for glacier protection in India must be tailored to account for the dense population and the economic dependencies of local communities.

Furthermore, international conservation initiatives such as the 30×30 marine protection policy have demonstrated potential risks. In some cases, such initiatives have displaced small-scale fishing communities in the name of conservation. A similar approach to glacier protection, if not carefully structured, could harm mountain communities by restricting their access to essential resources. Instead of a one-size-fits-all policy, a comprehensive, people-friendly, and glacier-friendly environmental protection law must be developed.

The loss of Himalayan glaciers is occurring at an alarming rate. Over the past 45 years, between 22% and 24% of the region’s snow and ice cover has already disappeared. Satellite imaging has provided crucial insights into the depth of ice loss, confirming that the primary driver of this decline is rising global temperatures. Beyond direct warming, additional factors such as permafrost exposure, methane emissions, and reduced snowfall accumulation are further exacerbating glacier loss. Without sufficient snowfall deposition to replenish the ice, long-term preservation of glaciers becomes increasingly difficult.

Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach. While legal protections are necessary, they must be reinforced by broader environmental policies that consider socio-economic factors. Strategies must encompass immediate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, stricter controls on tourism-related pollution, regulation of black carbon sources, and sustainable economic alternatives for communities dependent on the cryosphere. Additionally, conservation laws must be designed to prevent exploitation by powerful corporate interests.

In his opening remarks, Mr Dutta emphasized glacier protection as not just an environmental imperative but a socio-economic and geopolitical issue that affects millions of people. A balanced, well-researched approach that incorporates scientific insights, international best practices, and local community needs is crucial to developing an effective and equitable glacier protection framework for India.

Taking the discussion towards scientific insights on Glacial changes and climate governance Dr Smriti Basnett, Deputy Director, Future Earth South Asia Regional Office; Consultant Scientist, Divecha Centre for Climate Change emphasized the importance of recognizing glaciers as living entities rather than distant, non-living forms. Understanding and acknowledging glaciers as part of a dynamic system is crucial to appreciating their role in sustaining life on Earth.

Dr Basnett’s scientific background was instrumental in understanding the key fundamental components of glaciers. She mentioned that a fundamental aspect of glaciology is the terminology used to describe glacier features. Glaciers are broadly divided into three main zones: the accumulation zone, the ablation zone, and the equilibrium line area (ELA). The accumulation zone is where snowfall gathers over years, compacts, and forms glacier ice. This ice then moves downward, ultimately flowing out from the glacier’s snout, giving rise to tributaries and rivers. The ablation zone is the section where melting occurs. Ideally, a glacier remains stable when the rate of accumulation and melting is balanced. However, current observations indicate a disruption in this equilibrium.

A key indicator of glacial health is the ELA, which demarcates the permanent ice area. In the Himalayan region, particularly in the Sikkim Himalayas, a concerning trend has been observed where the ELA is rising. This shift means that the middle section of glaciers, which holds the largest ice volume, is melting at an accelerated rate. The implications of this are twofold: initially, there will be an increase in river flow, creating an illusion of water abundance, but over time, as the ice diminishes, water sources will be severely depleted. This phenomenon signals an impending crisis in water availability.

The acceleration of glacial melting is largely attributed to climate change. The rise in global temperatures, influenced by greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, is a primary driver. Carbon dioxide, in particular, remains in the atmosphere for centuries, exacerbating long-term warming effects. The result is a rapid and alarming rate of glacier retreat.

One of the most significant consequences of glacier retreat is the formation of glacial lakes. As glaciers shrink, water accumulates in depressions, forming supraglacial lakes. Over time, these lakes coalesce into larger water bodies. Observations in the Sikkim Himalayas show that many of these lakes, initially small, have expanded to the size of football fields. Furthermore, some glaciers have lost their defined snouts, leading to multiple points of water discharge, thereby altering traditional glacier terminology and classifications.

These evolving glacial landscapes pose significant risks. One such event, known as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), occurs when natural dams, made of loose debris called moraines, fail. The 2023 Lhonak Glacier disaster in Sikkim serves as a stark example. Here, a massive chunk of moraine collapsed into a glacial lake, triggering a destructive surge of water that devastated downstream settlements. Earthquakes and climate-induced instability further exacerbate the frequency and intensity of such events.

The impact of glacial changes extends beyond environmental concerns. Local communities, particularly in high-altitude regions, are experiencing shifts in traditional land use. Yak herders, for instance, report that grazing lands are shifting to higher altitudes due to rising temperatures. This affects not only the livelihoods of these communities but also the delicate ecological balance of the region.

A crucial concept in glaciology is response time, which refers to the delayed impact of environmental changes. Actions taken decades or even centuries ago, such as industrialization and fossil fuel consumption, are manifesting their effects in the present. The absence of atmospheric political boundaries means that the global climate crisis affects all regions, regardless of their individual carbon footprints.

Addressing these challenges requires integrated climate governance. Unlike some developed regions where stringent conservation measures prevent human interference near glaciers, the Himalayas continue to experience high levels of tourism and vehicular pollution. The deposition of black carbon and soot accelerates ice melting, compounding the effects of global warming. Research indicates that pollutants from as far as Japan’s Hiroshima and Nagasaki have been detected in Himalayan glaciers, reinforcing the interconnectedness of global environmental issues.

Recent initiatives provide a blueprint for better glacier management. For instance, the sanctification of a glacier in Uttarakhand represents a cultural and policy-driven effort to elevate glacier conservation. Additionally, the establishment of the Sikkim Glacier Commission signifies a proactive approach to regional glacial studies. The proposal for Glacier Commissions across different states could further enhance localized understanding and protection efforts.

In conclusion, Dr Basnett stressed the dynamic nature of glaciers and the necessity of an urgent and holistic approach to climate governance. Recognizing glaciers as evolving entities, integrating traditional knowledge with scientific research, and implementing robust policies will be critical in mitigating the ongoing crisis. The International Year of Glaciers serves as a timely reminder of the need for concerted global efforts to preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.

After understanding the relevance of glacial preservation in the Himalayas, environmental concerns and the scientific significance. It was more pertinent to understand the policy and legal implications. The discussion was transitioned by Ms Ushashi Datta, Consultant (Global South Fellow), Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW). Ms Datta started by explaining India’s comprehensive legal framework, where introducing additional laws may not always be the most effective approach. Before new legislation is considered, it is essential to develop a foundational understanding of the impacts of glacial changes. Scientific knowledge about glaciers, including their names and associated terminologies, needs to be made accessible to researchers, nonprofit organizations, civil societies, and think tanks. Translating complex scientific concepts into more digestible information can help facilitate informed policy discussions.

Ms Datta emphasized that while legal backing for the protection of glaciers and ecosystems is necessary, the current understanding of natural resources remains limited and influenced by historical perspectives. Climate policy and scientific knowledge in this field are constantly evolving. Not all aspects of glacial conservation can be covered under a single act, but discussions within legislative bodies are crucial in integrating such considerations into existing legal structures. Instead of a standalone glacial law, a more effective approach may be to incorporate glacier conservation within a broader climate law.

India’s diverse socio-economic and geographical landscape poses challenges in adopting policies directly from other countries. Bringing in examples from nations such as Switzerland and Bhutan that have established frameworks, their applicability to India must be carefully examined. Rather than direct transposition, cross-border collaborations, regional networks, and research partnerships can help shape a more context-specific approach to glacier conservation.

There is a notable gap in targeted focus on glaciers within the legal domain. Expanding the broader understanding of natural resource laws is a prerequisite for integrating glacier-specific conservation measures. The Uttarakhand High Court’s 2017 decision to grant personhood to glaciers provided legal recognition and rights similar to those of citizens, presenting an opportunity for legal research and practical exploration of such judicial interventions. In 2014, the National Green Tribunal also acknowledged reports on glacial lake flooding, highlighting the judiciary’s role in recognizing environmental concerns. However, effective policymaking requires legislative action in conjunction with judicial pronouncements.

Ms Datta highlighted that a collaborative effort between courts, legislatures, and independent environmental bodies is necessary to drive meaningful policy initiatives. Political will is a decisive factor in conservation efforts, and engaging with policymakers ensures that research and discourse translate into actionable legal measures. Scientific studies on glacier health exist, but accessibility remains a challenge. Simplifying complex findings and fostering communication between researchers and policymakers can bridge this gap.

Local community involvement is crucial in conservation efforts. Researchers, scientists, and legal professionals must engage with individuals who have direct interactions with these ecosystems. Their insights and indigenous knowledge provide critical perspectives that should inform policy decisions. Ignoring these stakeholders may not only lead to conflicts but also hinder effective implementation of conservation measures. Establishing sustained communication with local populations, incorporating their knowledge, and overcoming language barriers are necessary steps.

A standardized, one-size-fits-all policy approach may not be effective for glacier conservation. Understanding the specific needs of different regions ensures that policies are more relevant and practical. While various government bodies and academic institutions are monitoring glacial health, these efforts are often scattered and lack coordination. Effective knowledge-sharing mechanisms must be established to prevent delays in policy response.

Permafrost protection is another area that requires attention within climate policy discussions. Melting permafrost not only threatens biodiversity but also has the potential to release trapped carbon and pathogens. While significant research has been conducted in the Arctic, similar studies in the Himalayas could provide valuable insights. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for mitigating potential long-term risks.

Climate policy discussions should not remain confined to geographically proximate areas but should also engage decision-makers at the national level. Issues such as air pollution in Delhi demonstrate how localized environmental concerns can have broader policy implications. Similarly, glacial conservation must be positioned as a national priority, considering its widespread environmental and economic consequences.

International cooperation is essential for effective glacial conservation. Since glaciers extend beyond national borders, collaboration through international agreements and regional frameworks is vital. Establishing a shared data repository accessible to researchers and policymakers across nations could facilitate coordinated efforts in conservation. Restricting environmental information to national boundaries limits the potential for comprehensive solutions.

Technological advancements, including AI-based data analysis, satellite monitoring, and remote sensing, present opportunities for improved glacier monitoring. Collaboration between organizations such as ISRO and NASA could enhance research efforts. Rather than focusing solely on new legal frameworks, investing in technological solutions and cross-institutional partnerships may offer more effective conservation outcomes.

Engaging local communities in conservation strategies is vital. Their reliance on glaciers for water, agriculture, and other resources underscores the need to incorporate their perspectives into policy planning. Establishing partnerships with local populations and integrating traditional knowledge into conservation initiatives can enhance policy effectiveness.

Legal professionals have a growing opportunity to engage with environmental and climate law. While India currently lacks a dedicated climate law, the accelerating climate crisis will likely necessitate legislative interventions in the near future. A multidisciplinary approach, incorporating scientific, policy, and legal perspectives, is crucial for meaningful legal frameworks. Without a well-informed foundation, legal interventions may have limited impact. By fostering collaboration across scientific and policy domains, legal measures can be designed to address climate and glacial conservation challenges effectively.

Moving forward with the discussion questions, the panelists were asked on major areas as mentioned below.

Potential Framework for a Glacial Preservation Law in India

During the discussion, a question was raised regarding the possible structure of a glacial preservation law in India. Drawing from the example of Argentina, where such laws were initially designed to protect glaciers from mining activities, the question explored how a similar framework might take shape in India. While mining is not the primary concern in the Indian context, legal approaches typically frame laws as either granting rights or providing protection against harm.

Ms. Ushashi Datta responded by referencing the Uttarakhand High Court’s 2017 decision that recognized glaciers as legal entities with rights akin to those of Indian citizens. This implies that any harm inflicted on glaciers could result in legal action under environmental protection laws. However, the practical implementation of this concept remains unexplored, as no cases have yet been challenged in the Supreme Court. The broader challenge of defining preservation, including scientific classifications of glacial structures, was highlighted as a necessary step before legislation can be framed.

Mr. Soumya Dutta added that mining remains a significant issue in the Indian Himalayas, with active and proposed projects across multiple states. Any legal framework for glacial preservation must consider banning specific activities that are detrimental to glacier health, much like the provisions in existing environmental laws such as the Air and Water Prevention and Control of Pollution Acts. Additionally, integrating local livelihoods into the conservation model is essential to ensure a balanced approach that avoids large-scale industrial exploitation while supporting sustainable local activities.

Dr. Smriti Basnett provided a perspective on the difficulties in implementing conservation laws, emphasizing the reactive nature of policy decisions. Environmental issues often receive attention only after a disaster occurs, as seen in the Sikkim glacial lake outburst flood. The complexity of legal frameworks for glacier preservation lies in defining responsibilities—whether they apply to local residents using traditional fuels or to urban populations benefiting from hydropower. A just transition is essential, ensuring that local communities play a central role in decision-making. Effective policy must consider local, national, and international stakeholders to create an inclusive and sustainable conservation framework.

Micro Policy on Glacier Conservation and Local Community Livelihoods

The discussion also addressed the role of micro policies in glacier conservation within local ecosystems, particularly in the context of community livelihoods and government policymaking. Dr. Smriti Basnett highlighted the deep integration between micro-level policies and local communities. During research expeditions, local communities often expressed apprehensions, sometimes driven by myths such as the belief that glaciers contain hidden gold reserves. These cultural perceptions influence interactions with scientific studies and conservation efforts.

Traditional values and religious practices also play a significant role in conservation. Many mountain peaks in Sikkim, for instance, are considered sacred and remain off-limits for climbing. Such indigenous customs contribute to glacier preservation at the community level. The proactive engagement of local communities in conservation initiatives has led to innovative protection strategies, demonstrating the importance of acknowledging and incorporating local knowledge into policymaking. Ensuring that conservation policies align with the lived experiences and cultural values of local populations is essential for their successful implementation.

Legal Considerations for Glacial Governance

The panel also discussed the recent administrative shift of the glacier agenda from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to the Ministry of Jal Shakti. This shift reflects the government’s perception of glacier-related issues primarily within the domain of water resources rather than environmental conservation. The implications of this change were examined, particularly in the context of whether existing water and river laws should be amended to incorporate glaciers.

Ms. Ushashi Datta emphasized the need to expand legal definitions and incorporate specific terminologies instead of grouping all elements under the broad category of “natural resources.” A more precise legal framework would reduce ambiguity and ensure better conservation efforts. However, she also noted that incorporating glaciers into law could set a precedent for other natural resources, making it essential to engage in comprehensive discussions with scientific and local communities before implementing legal changes.

Mr. Soumya Dutta expressed concerns over the transfer of glacial governance to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, arguing that the ministry primarily focuses on water resource exploitation rather than environmental protection. He highlighted that the National Action Plan on Climate Change already includes missions related to water and Himalayan ecosystems, suggesting that the government’s decision might be driven by infrastructure and hydroelectric interests rather than conservation priorities.

Dr. Tsewang Namgail suggested that amending existing state water laws to include glacier-related provisions might be a more feasible approach than drafting standalone legislation. He underscored the importance of raising awareness about glaciers and their retreat, noting efforts in Ladakh where local communities document glacial changes through photography. Such initiatives foster community involvement and create a foundation for policy advocacy.

Ms. Bhargavi S. Rao and Ms. Ushashi Datta further highlighted the role of local governance and traditional knowledge in conservation. Strengthening local governance frameworks, particularly in glacial states, could enable more effective community-driven action. They also discussed the potential of participatory data collection through mobile applications, drawing parallels to existing initiatives like the Bhuvan Ganga app, which crowdsources pollution data. Similar approaches could be employed to monitor glacial health, reinforcing the importance of local engagement in climate policy.

Renewable Energy and Environmental Costs

Dr. Tsewang Namgail highlighted concerns regarding the expansion of renewable energy projects, particularly in Ladakh. While renewable energy sources like solar power appear attractive on the surface, their implementation comes with significant environmental costs. Transporting solar infrastructure to remote regions like Ladakh requires extensive truck-based logistics, leading to increased carbon emissions. Black carbon deposits from vehicle emissions settle on glaciers, accelerating their melting. These unintended consequences underscore the need for a more nuanced approach to renewable energy deployment in ecologically sensitive areas.

Ms. Bhargavi S. Rao echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the current transition to renewable energy often serves as a band-aid solution rather than addressing fundamental issues. She stressed the importance of reducing overall consumption and embracing a degrowth model rather than merely shifting from fossil fuels to renewables. True environmental sustainability, she argued, lies in minimizing human interference with nature and adopting simpler, less resource-intensive lifestyles.

Panel Insights on Future Action

Ms. Bhargavi S. Rao emphasized the need for scientific awareness at the local level, particularly regarding mining and resource extraction. Local communities must be informed about environmental impacts in ways they understand. Rather than creating new laws and agencies, strengthening existing legal frameworks and ensuring localized conservation efforts would be more effective. Addressing glacier conservation from a grassroots level would yield better results than relying solely on broad legislative measures.

Ms. Ushashi Datta reiterated the importance of involving local communities in decision-making. Engagement should go beyond acknowledging their cultural beliefs and extend to ensuring they understand the scientific rationale for conservation. Bridging the gap between policymakers and local stakeholders is essential for effective and sustainable climate action.

Mr. Soumya Dutta spoke about the need to prioritize environmental impacts on the cryosphere. While some issues are global and beyond national control, others—such as infrastructure projects—can be addressed locally. Distinguishing between unavoidable global effects and controllable local impacts is necessary, advocating for a strategic approach that balances conservation with human needs.

Dr. Smriti Basnett pointed to the necessity of leadership in glacial conservation. Many local governance systems had pre-existing environmental protections before national laws were introduced. Transdisciplinary collaboration is needed to integrate scientific research, policy, and community engagement. Better implementation and management strategies are required to bridge existing gaps in glacier conservation efforts.

Dr. Tsewang Namgail stressed the urgency of taking glacier conservation seriously, given that a significant portion of the world’s population depends on Himalayan glaciers for water. Localized education and awareness programs are necessary, particularly in regions like Ladakh, where conventional environmental narratives do not always align with local ecological realities. Land use changes affecting carbon sequestration in alpine meadows and the ecological impact of renewable energy projects in fragile ecosystems are key concerns. Collaboration among Himalayan states is essential to push for stronger legislative measures, whether through standalone laws or amendments to existing water policies.

The panel discussion underscored the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and policy challenges in glacier conservation. Moving forward, a collaborative, knowledge-driven, and locally inclusive approach will be critical in ensuring sustainable solutions for the protection of India’s cryosphere.

The discussion wrapped up with a forward-looking perspective, acknowledging the depth of insights shared & the hope that the coming year would bring more meaningful conversations, collective learning, and tangible steps toward glacier conservation. Highlighting the significance of sustained engagement, the International Year for Glaciers can be viewed as an opportunity to drive real action and long-term change.

Acknowledgment: This article was written by Ms Priyanka Negi, Research Program & Editorial Associate