Seminar of the Laboratory for Urban Studies and the University of Delhi: Climate and Migration in the Himalayas
On May 15, 2025, the Lab for Urban Studies, together with the Leontiev Center and the University of Delhi, held a joint scientific seminar dedicated to examining the impact of climate and environmental changes on the traditional livelihoods of indigenous peoples of the Western Himalayas.
During the event, Dr. Pardeep Singh (PGDAV College, University of Delhi) and Dr. Anwesha Borthakur presented the findings of their research project titled “From Pasturelands to Urban Settlements: Climate-Induced Migration and Livelihood Shifts in Himalayan Agro-Pastoral Tribes.” The discussion focused particularly on the Gaddi and Bakerwal tribes, who face significant challenges related to the transformation of mountain ecosystems and traditional agro-pastoral practices.
The study revealed the substantial impact of climatic factors such as rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns on the degradation of pasturelands, reduction of livestock numbers, and disruption of traditional farming systems. The researchers also examined the migration of community members to urban areas, a process accompanied by the loss of traditional knowledge, changes in dietary habits, and the emergence of new socio-economic difficulties.
The presented materials contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex processes associated with environmental changes and socio-economic transformations in the Western Himalayan regions.
