Chewang Norphel – The Ice Man of India 

This is a man who drew inspiration from his childhood observation to make a breakthrough in devising the first artificial glacier in Leh, Chewang Norphel. 

By creating the artificial glaciers, Norphel was able to solve the water crisis faced by local communities where 80% were farmers who were growing barley and wheat ( crops that require high water supply). With the success of his first experiment, Norphel went on to create 17 such artificial glaciers across the region around Ladakh and hence earned the nick name “ The Iceman of India”

With a living room filled with awards, Norphel believes rivers are the main source of fresh water but considering they flow at lower altitudes, they are of bare use to the villages at higher altitudes. 

As winters are severe in Ladakh, there is no scope to grow winter crops. The water that flows during that period of the year is completely wasted. The idea was to ensure that the water could be used in later stages through the artificial glaciers. 

Norphel recollects the early days where the locals believed him to be crazy though he didn’t blame them, it was a crazy idea that had never been done before. Yet here we are 20 years down the lane, with over 17 man made glaciers all owing to the technical knowledge and commitment from our Iceman of India. Norphel is a true inspiration to us at aidbees and we hope his actions of selflessness and compassion have inspired you to take your first steps on this journey of kindness. 

#kindnesstory #storiesofkindness #bekind #shareyourkindness #aidbees #iceman

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