His Holiness Chetsang Rinpoche laid the foundation stone for the Himalayan Botanical Garden at Shayok on June 16, in the presence of Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson and Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee.

Sanctioned under the District CAPEX Budget with an allocation of ₹1 crore, the project is envisioned as a pioneering centre for the conservation and promotion of Ladakh’s unique botanical heritage. It will focus on medicinal plants, indigenous fruit varieties, and rare high-altitude flora, serving as a platform for research, education, and environmental awareness.

Addressing the gathering, CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson expressed gratitude to His Holiness for his spiritual guidance and support. He highlighted the project’s importance in preserving Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and its potential to generate sustainable livelihoods and boost plant-based research in the region.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by Ven. Konchok Tsephel, Sangha Councillor; Tundup Nurboo, Councillor Phyang; DFO Leh, Mohd Ali; Chief Horticulture Officer, Kunzang Angmo; Dy. Director, Command Area Development, Tashi Dolma; Naib Tehsildar Tangtse, and representatives from LEHO and Go Green, along with other concerned officials.

The Himalayan Botanical Garden at Shayok is expected to become a beacon of ecological responsibility, attracting researchers, students, and nature enthusiasts from across the country while strengthening regional conservation efforts.