Empathy at elevation: How 3,000 volunteers are reimagining Ladakh

In the remote, high-altitude regions of Ladakh — where freezing winds and isolation are part of daily life — the Himalaya Volunteer Tourism (HVT) Foundation is proving that meaningful change begins with committed hearts and skilled hands. Backed by the Union Territory government and supported by 62 collaboration partners, the HVT is harnessing the energy of over 3,000 volunteers to drive grassroots transformation in education, health, entrepreneurship and sustainability.

In just the past year, this volunteer-led movement has impacted 73 underserved schools through both digital and in-person education. A dedicated team of 1,800 on-ground volunteers and 1,200 remote contributors has installed smart classrooms, reaching more than 6,000 students across Ladakh. Virtual tutors and digital content creators have extended learning beyond the classroom, while over 200 teachers from 30 schools have participated in hands-on training workshops, learning interactive techniques tailored to the region’s challenges.

Beyond education, the HVT is nurturing local livelihoods. By guiding rural women and youth in sustainable tourism, organic farming, hospitality and agri-tech, the foundation is helping reverse migration and create jobs rooted in local talent. Their startup mentoring and cooperative models are fueling a quiet revolution—one that keeps communities resilient and connected to their roots.

Mental health and social awareness have also found champions in HVT’s model. Volunteer-led campaigns on drug abuse and emotional well-being are opening up safe spaces for conversations, healing and hope—often blending local outreach with digital support.

A shining example of HVT’s work is the ongoing mission in Zanskar Valley, one of Ladakh’s most remote outposts. A 12-member team of experts—including scientists, ex-Army personnel, educators, engineers and wellness coaches—has conducted over 40 interactive workshops in local schools.

From DIY science experiments using foldable paper microscopes to tailored skill training, the initiative is fostering curiosity and capacity at every level. Spearheaded by co-founders Mahima Mehra and Panki Sood, this mission is building deep partnerships with local authorities and schools for sustainable development.

So far, over 3,000 insulated jackets that double as sleeping bags have been distributed, and 32 toy libraries have brought play-based learning to 3,500 children. Each classroom built, each teacher mentored and each child empowered is proof that when empathy meets expertise, transformation follows.

As founder Panki Sood says, “Whether you teach online, build schools or mentor a village entrepreneur—there’s a place for you in this journey.” The HVT is not just an organisation. It’s a people-powered movement, reshaping Ladakh one village at a time.