Nestled in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is a high-altitude region of extraordinary natural beauty, cultural depth, and environmental vulnerability. The region's harsh terrain and extreme climate define it as a cold desert, where life depends almost entirely on the seasonal melt of snow and glaciers.
"Climate change is melting glaciers at an alarming rate, threatening water security and traditional agricultural cycles."
To build a resilient, self-reliant, and sustainable Himalayan society where every individual has equitable access to education, food, healthcare, and eco-conscious livelihoods, while living in harmony with nature and cultural heritage.
CENSFOOD is committed to driving holistic and inclusive development in Ladakh by promoting sustainable education models, ensuring food security, improving public health, developing essential infrastructure, and fostering ecological consciousness.
The Centre for Sustainable Development and Food Security in Ladakh (CENSFOOD) is a grassroots, community-driven organization dedicated to transforming lives and landscapes in the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayan region. Officially registered under the Union Territory of Ladakh (Reg. No. 125-UTL of 2003), CENSFOOD was established with a singular vision—to create inclusive, resilient, and self-sustaining communities across Ladakh through holistic development models.
Rooted deeply in the values of equity, sustainability, and compassion, CENSFOOD focuses on empowering marginalized populations by addressing critical areas such as education, food security, public health, community infrastructure, and sustainable livelihoods.
Unlocking potential through Himalayan International School Ladakh (HISL), providing quality education to children from remote villages, migrant families, and nomadic communities.
Empowering women to take charge of their health through menstrual hygiene management, reproductive health education, and training female health volunteers.
Restoring Ladakh's ancient water-powered stone mills to preserve traditional grain wisdom, nutrient-rich foods, and sustainable village economies.
Providing midday meals, nutrition kits, and health outreach to ensure children and families have access to essential nutrients and healthcare services.
Uplifting Ladakhi women through adult literacy, vocational training, self-help groups, and leadership development to create economic independence.
Reviving indigenous health knowledge through projects like Rosehip Tea production, herbal medicine units, and integrating traditional healing with modern healthcare.
Children receiving quality education
Women reached through health programs
Traditional watermills restored
Nutritious meals served annually
Tucked away in the majestic mountains of Ladakh, HISL is not just a school, it's a dream in motion. A dream where every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education, holistic development, and a future full of possibilities.
Empowering women to take charge of their health and their communities. Our initiative brings critical health education, services, and support directly to the doorsteps of women in underserved, nomadic, and remote areas.
Restoring Ladakh's ancient water-powered stone mills to preserve traditional grain wisdom. These mills were the cornerstone of local food systems, used to grind barley, wheat, and buckwheat slowly and naturally, preserving both nutrients and cultural heritage.
"We are not just reviving mills, we are rebuilding trust in our own heritage."
Uplifting Ladakhi women through literacy, skill-building, and leadership development. We equip women with hands-on skills they can use to generate income and support their families, blending cultural heritage with modern relevance.
"When you empower a woman, you empower an entire community."
Promoting indigenous wellness through the revival of traditional knowledge. Rosehip, the fruit of the wild rose plant found abundantly in Ladakh, is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, traditionally used to boost immunity and soothe ailments.
Your support can help us reach more communities in Ladakh with education, healthcare, and sustainable development programs.