Mahendergarh, 11.11.25-The Department of Sociology, Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh organised a seminar on “Challenges to and Transitions to Himalayan Pastoralism” featuring noted political ecologist Dr. Vasant Saberwal, Director, Centre for Pastoralism, New Delhi. The event drew an energetic audience of over 100 participants including faculty, scholars and students.

The session opened with the screening of the acclaimed documentary Turf Wars, filmed inside the Great Himalayan National Park. The film captivated viewers with its sharp portrayal of conflicts between conservation laws and the livelihood rights of pastoral communities. It raised critical questions on overgrazing claims, loss of forest access, and the neglect of indigenous ecological knowledge.

In his address, Dr. Vasant Saberwal challenged long-held myths surrounding pastoralism, emphasising that Himalayan herding communities are “ecologically rational, not backward.” He traced such misconceptions to colonial forestry policies and urged policymakers and the public to recognise pastoralists as vital environmental stewards. Despite shrinking routes and harsh conditions, he noted, pastoralism remains economically viable—often attracting migrant labour into the trade. Dr. Saberwal underlined that pastoralism is ecologically rational, sustaining fragile mountain landscapes through rotational grazing; economically significant, contributing to livestock production, manure-based agriculture and high-value herb collection; and culturally rich, embedded in ritual life and customary governance. While younger generations may be shifting away due to tough terrain and changing aspirations, the system remains viable—evident from renewed interest where markets, such as the camel-milk economy in Kachchh, have expanded. He concluded by encouraging students to pursue dissertations and internships on pastoralism.

Faculty members brought diverse regional and disciplinary insights to the discussion. Those present included Dr. Tirtharaj Bhoi, Dr. Abhiranjan Kumar, Ms. Shweta Sohal, Dr. Dushyant Panwar, Dr. T. Longkoi Khiamniungan, and Ms. Tanvi Bhati. Students posed thoughtful questions on modernisation, livelihood futures, conservation ethics and the politics of development, turning the session into a vibrant classroom of ideas. The discussion also underscored the need for empathetic civil servants who engage communities as partners rather than obstacles. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Yudhvir, appreciating the speaker’s insights and the active participation of the CUH community.