In the heart of the rugged Himalayas lies the captivating valley of Pangi, a land of extreme beauty and challenges. Situated in the Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, Pangi is renowned as the “wild country” of Himachal, where nature’s grandeur and ancient deities coexist amidst formidable terrains and harsh winters that isolate the valley for months at a time. Despite its enchanting allure, Pangi grapples with severe infrastructural deficiencies, including poor roads, limited communication, unstable power supply, and a lack of internet connectivity.

In 2023, the Art of Living Organization took a bold step to uplift Pangi’s landscape through the Himalay Unnati Mission, adopting two panchayats within the valley. Assigned as the community facilitator for this mission, Suraj Prakash, a tourism professional turned Community Development Professional, embarked on a transformative journey to improve the lives of Pangi’s residents and serve as a role model for the youth of Himachal Pradesh.

Suraj Prakash’s achievements in Pangi include:

1. *Survey of the Panchayat*: Conducted a comprehensive survey of over 300 families to assess their needs and aspirations.
2. *Dairy Development in Dharwaas Village*: Established a dairy development program, empowering local farmers and enhancing livelihood opportunities.
3. *Facilitation of Behavior Courses*: Organized behavior courses for over 350 individuals, equipping them with essential life skills for personal and professional growth.
4. *Support to Women SHGs*: Provided support to women Self-Help Groups for the development of value chain products, promoting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment among women.
5. *Consultation for Joint Ventures*: Engaged in meaningful consultations with communities and the Pangi administration for potential joint ventures, fostering collaboration for sustainable development.
6. *Livestock Management and Community Fodder Bank*: Implemented effective livestock management practices and established a community fodder bank to ensure the well-being of livestock and enhance agricultural productivity.
7. *Local Medicinal Plants and Processing*: Promoted the conservation and utilization of local medicinal plants, contributing to both health and economic well-being within the community.
8. *Waste Management Solutions*: Implemented waste management solutions and introduced waste-based products, promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
9. *Heritage Tourism*: Promoted heritage tourism and established a local museum to showcase the rich history and traditions of Pangi, enhancing cultural preservation and tourism potential.
10. *Establishment of Himalay Basket*: Founded Himalay Basket, a venture focused on value-added products, creating new avenues for income generation and market access for local artisans.
11. *Solar-Powered Smart Schools*: Implemented solar-powered smart schools in four villages, ensuring access to quality education even in the most remote corners of Pangi, thereby enhancing educational opportunities and infrastructure in the region.

Through his dedication and tireless efforts, Suraj Prakash has not only transformed the landscape of Pangi but has also inspired hope and empowerment within the community. His achievements stand as a testament to the power of community-driven development and serve as a beacon of progress for the Himalayan region.