 Lokhit Pashu-Palak Sansthan announcesCamel
Yatra 2005
A Pilgrimage to Rajasthan’s Camel Herders
Camels are a symbol of Rajasthan and a traditional lifeline for
the people of the Thar Desert. But in the last ten years, their
numbers have fallen by half. This has important ecological,
social, and economic dimensions, and may have serious consequences
for the many poor people who rely directly or indirectly on
camels. It may also affect Rajasthan’s ability to withstand
drought.
Lokhit Pashu-Palak Sansthan plans a series of activities to
raise awareness about this issue. One of these is a camel
yatra – a pilgrimage – through Rajasthan’s prime
camel-breeding areas.
Why
 | Get the facts and understand the background of the declining
camel population. |
| Learn about the traditional knowledge of camel keepers and
document the wisdom of elders. |
| Discuss the issue and possible solutions with the people and
communities concerned. |
| Build consensus and momentum for saving the camel. |
| Alert the media to the causes and effects of the declining
camel population. |
How
On camel back, covering about 20 km per day, and camping out or
staying in villages.
When
15th January until about the middle of February, 2005.
Where
We will start from the LPPS training centre in Sadri
(District Pali). We will pass through Godwar (Bali, Rani,
Chanod) to Mallani, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner,
taking in villages that are (or were) famous for their camel
herds.
Who
| Camel breeders, community leaders, and Raika camel
herders. |
| Hanwant Singh Rathore, a native of Rajasthan with
fond childhood memories of travelling by camel-cart. Hanwant is
director of LPPS, and an avid advocate for the Raika
pastoralists. |
| Ilse Köhler-Rollefson, veterinarian and camel expert,
recognized by Rolex Awards for Enterprise in 2002 for her work
to save the camel and Raika heritage. |
| Nicely decorated riding camels. |
Join us
Join us for a day, or for the whole journey. We have space for
a limited number of interested people to link up with us for all
or part of the yatra. You will need a camel (we can help
find one) and you will have to cover your own expenses. Get in
touch soon to discuss costs and logistics.
More information
Yatra diary:
Follow the yatra through the fields and deserts of
Rajasthan.
Background:
www.pastoralpeoples.org/lpps.htm
Printable versions of this announcement:
 pdf, 478 kb,
 doc, 110 kb
Contact
LPPS, P.O. Box 1, Sadri 306702, District Pali, Rajasthan, India
Tel. +91(0)2934-285086, 098-292-86948. E-mail
lpps@sify.com |
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