ABSTRACT
The majority of Indian cultivation is rainfed where food security is a critical issue due to various threats, including climate change. Therefore, mitigation measures play a significant role in reducing the risks imposed by climate change. Ladakh, one of the highest-altitude inhabited places on earth, is known for the existence of enormous sources of renewable energy, including geothermal. This Trans-Himalayan region is also known for limited seasonal agriculture due to prolonged sub-zero winters. Geothermal sites (Puga and Chumathang, altitude 3950m asl) are known for high enthalpy thermal manifestations. The scientific grasp of geothermal energy remains untapped in these high mountains. We performed a comprehensive review to discuss the potential use of geothermal energy for winter cultivation in the area, which remains landlocked from the rest of world throughout winters. The study sites lying north of the Indus Tsangpo Surture Zone are tectonically active, so the place is manifested with hot springs, mudpools and mild geysers. Local communities have seen direct benefits (cooking, bathing, and washing) from hot springs, but other uses have not been explored. A solution for winter cultivation at an altitude of ~4000m asl is possible through a simple and cost-effective alternative production system rather than traditional agriculture. Using thermal energy in greenhouses may produce leafy or other vegetables during sub-zero temperatures in the Trans-Himalayan region, where otherwise, cultivation is not possible. Cultivation in summer is unlikely to be considered a possibility, let alone in winter, but the combination of geothermal energy and new techniques could be realized. Further, prospects include entrepreneurship among the local youths and food and nutritional security. The challenges of food insecurity, mainly during winters, could be met using this free energy, reducing the carbon footprint of transportation (air cargo during winters). Thus, the present study addresses SDG 2 (achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture), 5 (gender equality), 8 (sustainable economic growth), 13 (climate action).
