Kullu: A group of young Indians is trying to create a different trend in the Himalayas by “adopting” villages through their time, skills, ideas and willingness to contribute, rather than financial support. The initiative, led by Chandigarh-based Nikhil Sharma, brings together youngsters from different parts of the country to connect with Himalayan communities and understand local challenges.
Here, adopting a village does not mean taking financial responsibility for it. Instead, the idea is to build a meaningful relationship with the community and contribute through knowledge, skills and time. As part of the initiative, youngsters recently visited Manyashi, Deori and Sarahan villages in Sainj Valley.
They interacted with school students and local residents on environmental conservation and responsible tourism. During visits to schools, the group discussed plastic waste, its impact on the environment and the importance of responsible waste disposal. Games and interactive activities were used to engage children, while drawing and other creative activities encouraged younger students to think about clean villages and caring for nature.
The youngsters also met village pradhans and local residents to understand issues related to cleanliness, waste management and village development. The effort was not aimed at bringing ready-made solutions from outside. Instead, the group first listened to the community and then explored possible solutions together.
According to Nikhil, the initiative seeks to encourage youngsters to view the Himalayas differently. A village, he said, should not be treated merely as a place to stay for a few days before moving on. If someone has knowledge, a skill, a new idea or simply the willingness to contribute, they can do something meaningful for the community, he said.
The initiative also reflects a changing approach among some young travellers, for whom the mountains are not limited to travel, photographs and social media. The focus is on developing a deeper connection with local communities and the places they visit.
Nikhil now plans to take the model to other parts of Himachal Pradesh. Similar efforts were earlier undertaken during treks to Kareri and Triund in the Dhauladhar ranges of Kangra district, where the initiative received a positive response from local communities.
The broader aim is to bring together young people from different parts of the country and create a wider network of such journeys, turning travel into an opportunity to learn, contribute and build meaningful connections with Himalayan communities.
