Himalaya: Highest, Holy and Hijacked

Abstract

Here an attempt is being made to understand the ecological, social, economic, cultural, spiritual and geo-political importance and centrality of the Himalaya through its geography, culture, resources and protests. The highest and most sacred mountain range on the earth has been hijacked by the forces of privatization and globalization using the State apparatus under the incomplete model of development created by our political economy. The biggest challenge for the mountain communities is to maintain their dignity and self-respect, as well as the right to live in their territories. We have not yet been able to develop and foster this sensibility, which can perceive and discern the acute sensitivity of this young and fragile mountain range.