Parliament Panel Praises Sonam Wangchuk’s HIAL, Recommends UGC Recognition
Committee praises Himalayan Institute of Alternatives for exemplary work in experiential education and recommends model be replicated nationwide.
New Delhi, Dec 14: The Himalayan Institute of Alternatives (HIAL), founded by Ladakh educator and activist Sonam Wangchuk, has been praised by a Parliamentary panel for its “exemplary” work, with a recommendation that the University Grants Commission (UGC) grant it formal recognition.
In its report tabled in Parliament earlier this week, the Standing Committee on Education, Women, Youth and Sports, headed by Congress MP Digvijaya Singh, expressed concern over the pending UGC recognition of HIAL and suggested the Ministry of Education study its model for possible replication through Centres of Innovation in Education or other initiatives.
“During its study visit to Ladakh, the committee was impressed with the academic, research, and entrepreneurship ecosystem at HIAL, especially its success in implementing experiential education rooted in local socio-cultural and ecological contexts,” the report said.
The panel highlighted HIAL’s impact on the local community and international recognition for initiatives such as the ice stupas. It noted that the institute exemplifies the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on project-based learning, community engagement, and integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS).
“The committee recommends that the UGC consider granting recognition to HIAL. Additionally, it encourages both the UGC and the department to study the HIAL model closely and explore its replication elsewhere,” the report added.
HIAL’s journey has been marked by recent challenges. Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act on September 26 following protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, which turned violent. Subsequently, the Ladakh administration cancelled HIAL’s land allotment, and the Union Home Ministry revoked its FCRA registration, citing alleged violations.
Despite these hurdles, the Parliamentary panel’s report underlines HIAL’s significant contribution to education and innovation in the region.
