Kunzes Dolma, a herder in Ladakh, expresses her love for taking her cattle to graze in the mountains. However, military restrictions due to border tensions have made life difficult for her and her family. 'The pasture in that region is very good. Now, we cannot use the land to graze our cattle,’ she laments, highlighting how the changing geopolitical landscape impacts traditional nomadic lifestyles.
Dolma’s daughter, Tsering Lamo, raises concerns about the nomadic lifestyle, saying, 'These days with restrictions triggered due to military tensions, it is no longer pleasurable to be a nomad.' This remark points to the harsh realities faced by younger generations and suggests a potential shift towards other job opportunities.
The ongoing territorial dispute along the India-China border deeply affects local communities like Dolma's. She recalls how grazing restrictions have diminished their ability to utilize traditional pastures. 'It used to be a pleasure to graze our cattle, but now we feel trapped by the military's regulations,' Dolma asserts, emphasizing the personal toll of national conflicts.
The history of the border dispute is underscored by Dolma’s experiences. The proximity of Chushul to the Line of Actual Control symbolizes the fragility of their nomadic lifestyle amid military tensions. Despite the challenges presented, there remains a strong adherence to their heritage, exemplified by Dolma's commitment to her cattle.
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