The Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), founded by educator and activist Sonam Wangchuk, has been commended by a Parliamentary panel for its “exemplary” work in experiential and community-based education. The Standing Committee on Education, Women, Youth, and Sports, headed by Congress MP Digvijaya Singh, tabled its report in Parliament earlier this week, expressing concern over the pending recognition of HIAL by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
During its study visit to Ladakh, the committee observed HIAL’s innovative approach to education, research, and entrepreneurship. The report highlighted the institute’s success in implementing experiential learning tailored to local socio-cultural and ecological contexts. It also praised HIAL’s contributions to the community, including initiatives like ice stupas, which have gained international recognition.
The panel noted that despite HIAL’s remarkable achievements, the UGC has yet to grant it official recognition, leaving the matter unresolved for several years. The report emphasized that HIAL has not only impacted the local community positively but also aligns closely with the National Education Policy 2020, which promotes project-based learning, community engagement, and the integration of Indian Knowledge Systems.
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The committee recommended that the UGC consider granting formal recognition to HIAL without further delay. Additionally, it suggested that the Ministry of Education study the institute’s model in detail and explore ways to replicate it across India through Centres of Innovation in Education or similar interventions, thereby promoting experiential education nationwide.
The report also comes in the backdrop of controversies surrounding Wangchuk. He was detained under the National Security Act on September 26, following violent protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status. The administration had canceled HIAL’s land allotment, and the Union Home Ministry revoked its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act registration citing alleged violations.
Despite these challenges, HIAL continues to be recognized internationally for its innovative and community-focused education initiatives. Experts and lawmakers have emphasized that granting UGC recognition to the institute could serve as a model for educational reforms across India, encouraging institutions to adopt experiential, localized, and socially engaged learning methods.
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