Abstract ID: 3.9382 | Accepted as Talk | Poster | TBA | TBA

This study examines the role and sustainability of pastoralism, particularly transhumant pastoralism, as a crucial component of the rural economy in the cold-arid, resource-scarce regions of Nubra, Ladakh. Traditionally, pastoralism has been integral to agro-pastoral systems in mountainous areas, providing essential resources such as manure, draught power, and animal products like milk, meat, wool, and hides. It has also served as a vital income source for certain communities. However, traditional pastoral systems face rapid transformations due to economic shifts, tourism, globalization, youth migration, labor shortages, and climate change, leading to decreased local engagement in livestock rearing and negative impacts on social, economic, cultural, and ecological levels. Grounded in a case study from Nubra in the trans-Himalaya, this research analyzes the current status, opportunities, and constraints of transhumant pastoralism amidst these changes. A mixed-methods approach was employed to gather data through household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Findings reveal that transhumance is a significant source of household income for herders and is deeply embedded in cultural traditions. However, the influx of tourism and migration has resulted in labor shortages for transhumant systems and reduced economic dependence on them. Herders reported noticeable shifts, including decreased household participation in transhumance, reduced herd sizes, altered livestock compositions, and changing movement patterns. Dependency on the transhumance system has diminished, with younger generations showing less interest in these practices. The research underscores the need for effective policies and governmental support to preserve this age-old tradition. Without such support, transhumant pastoralism risks disappearing, profoundly affecting the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the region.