Engineer, Innovator, Educator, and Patriotic Indian
Born on September 1, 1966, in Uleytokpo village near Alchi, Ladakh. Father Sonam Wangyal served as minister in J&K government and security officer to the 14th Dalai Lama.
Began formal education at age 9 after moving to Srinagar, overcoming language and cultural barriers.
B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from National Institute of Technology, Srinagar.
Co-founded Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh to reform education system.
Completed specialization at Craterre School of Architecture in Grenoble, France.
Served as Advisor for Education in the Hill Council Government, Ladakh
Appointed to Drafting Committee of Ladakh Hill Council's Vision Document Ladakh 2025, formulating policy on Education and Tourism
Member of National Governing Council for Elementary Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India
Appointed to the Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education
Appointed to Expert panel for framing J&K State Education Policy and Vision Document
Led collaboration between government, villages, and civil society for education reform
Transformed failure rate from 95% to success rate of 75% in government exams
Schools reformed through Operation New Hope
Students trained at SECMOL campus in practical skills
Years of dedicated service to education
"Asia's Nobel Prize" for community-driven reform and improving life opportunities for Ladakhi youth
For the innovative Ice Stupa Project addressing water crisis
Best building at 12th World Congress on Earthen Architecture, Lyon, France
For pioneering sustainable building practices in extreme climates
For environmental conservation efforts in Ladakh
Regular speaker at international climate forums representing India's innovations
Put India on global map for innovation in sustainable development and climate solutions. Inspiration for "3 Idiots" brought Indian innovation story to millions.
Strengthened India's border region through education and empowerment of local youth, reducing migration and building local capacity.
Prevented brain drain by creating opportunities in Ladakh. Thousands of educated youth now contribute to India's development.
Ice Stupa innovation addresses critical water security in Himalayan region, protecting India's water resources for future generations.
Positioned India as leader in grassroots climate solutions. His innovations are studied and replicated worldwide.
Preserved Ladakhi culture while integrating with national mainstream. Model for India's unity in diversity principle.
Learn about Sonam Wangchuk's work and the current situation through these videos
Note: Please search for these videos on YouTube directly as video IDs may change:
"Sonam Wangchuk TEDx talk Ice Stupa"
Sonam Wangchuk explains his Ice Stupa innovation at TEDxBITSGoa
"Sonam Wangchuk Ladakh protests explained 2024"
Understanding the demands for Sixth Schedule and statehood
"SECMOL documentary Ladakh education"
Documentary on the education revolution in Ladakh
"Sonam Wangchuk climate fast 21 days March 2024"
Peaceful protest for Ladakh's environment and rights
"Sonam Wangchuk Ramon Magsaysay Award 2018"
Asia's Nobel Prize for community-driven reform
"Sonam Wangchuk arrest NSA Ladakh September 2025"
Latest updates on the detention and protests
"Sonam Wangchuk represents the best of Indian innovation and grassroots problem-solving. His work has transformed lives."
- International Development Expert"A true Gandhian who believes in constructive work rather than mere protests. His life is dedicated to nation-building."
- Education Policy Analyst"In 35 years of work, he has never been involved in any violence. His methods are always peaceful and constructive."
- Civil Society Leader"His innovations have put India on the global map for climate solutions. He is an asset to the nation."
- Climate ScientistIn 58 years of life and 35+ years of activism, never involved in any criminal activity or violence.
Worked WITH the government on multiple committees and reforms, not against it.
Represents India's innovation and sustainable development globally.
Inspiration for millions through "3 Idiots" and real-life achievements.
Always advocated dialogue and constructive solutions, never confrontation.
Dedicated life to strengthening India's border region through education and innovation.
It's about India's democratic values, environmental future, and the rights of peaceful citizens