Experts Call for ‘Himalayan Code for Living’ to Safeguard Fragile Ecosystem

Amitava Banerjee, MP, June 5, 2026, Darjeeling: Calling for a fundamental rethink of humanity’s relationship with the mountains, experts, policymakers, activists and community leaders from across the Himalayan region have advocated a shared “Himalayan Code for Living” to guide sustainable development and ecological stewardship in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.

The call emerged from the Himalayan Action School (HAS), organised by ActionAid India in collaboration with Doon University in Dehradun, from June 1 to 3.

Participants from nine Himalayan states and Nepal deliberated on the growing ecological challenges confronting the Himalayas, often described as the world’s “Third Pole”.

They pointed to increasing incidents of landslides, flash floods, glacial retreat, biodiversity loss and erratic rainfall, arguing that many of these problems stem not only from climate change but also from development models that ignore the ecological realities of mountain regions.

Inaugurating the event, Kusum Kandwal, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Women, highlighted the impact of environmental crises on women.

“Women bear the brunt of environmental crises, and society must work together to find solutions to natural hazards,” she said.

Sandeep Chachra, Executive Director of ActionAid India, stressed the need for a common vision for the region, underscoring the importance of “building a shared vision of sustainable futures by the Himalayan peoples.”

Former Nepal Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Paudyal called for balanced development planning.

“Development plans must focus on both development and the environment,” she said, advocating infrastructure and tourism projects guided by ecological sustainability rather than short-term economic gains.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of local communities and traditional ecological knowledge in managing forests, water sources, agriculture and disaster risks.

Participants emphasised the need for hyperlocal adaptation strategies, noting that climate risks vary significantly from one valley and watershed to another.

The proposal for a “Himalayan Code for Living”, put forward by independent journalist Linda Chhakchhuak of Meghalaya, received widespread support.

“The Himalayas need more than regulations and environmental safeguards; they require a living ‘Himalayan Code for Living’ grounded in shared responsibility,” she said.

The gathering concluded with a call for development models that place local communities at the centre of decision-making and prioritise ecological resilience, social justice and the well-being of future generations.

Photo: Delegates from Himalayan states and Nepal attending the Himalayan Action School deliberations on sustainable mountain development in Darjeeling.

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post