International Mountain Day is celebrated every year on 11th December. It was declared by the United Nations in 2003 to highlight the importance of mountains and promote their conservation. Mountains not only maintain climate balance but also serve as significant sources of vegetation, water resources, and biodiversity.
International Mountain Day
The primary aim of International Mountain Day is to raise awareness about the need for mountain conservation and the threats associated with them. The preservation of mountains is crucial for sustainable development and is a key part of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15. Due to climate change and excessive exploitation, mountains face severe threats today, making their conservation imperative.
Mountains are vital not only for people living in hilly areas but also for millions residing in lowland regions. They are the sources of the world’s major rivers and play an essential role in the water cycle.
This day also focuses on the development of mountains and the opportunities they provide. It aims to educate people about the role of mountains in the environment and their impact on human life.
Every year, International Mountain Day is observed with a specific theme.
History
The history of International Mountain Day dates back to 1992 when the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development adopted Agenda 21 under Chapter 13, titled “Managing Fragile Ecosystems: Sustainable Mountain Development.” This marked a significant milestone in the history of mountain development. Recognizing the growing attention toward the importance of mountains, the UN General Assembly declared 2002 as the United Nations International Year of Mountains and decided to observe 11th December as International Mountain Day annually starting from 2003. The first International Mountain Day was celebrated on 11th December 2003 and has since been observed each year with a specific theme.
International (United Nations)
In 2003, the UN General Assembly officially declared 11th December as International Mountain Day. The assembly encouraged the international community to organize events at all levels to highlight the importance of sustainable mountain development.
International Mountain Day is celebrated every year with a distinct theme related to sustainable mountain development. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has been assigned the responsibility of leading the observance of this day.
Themes and Highlights: 2010 Theme: “Mountain Minorities and Indigenous Peoples”
The focus was on raising awareness about the indigenous communities and minorities living in mountainous regions and emphasizing the importance of their cultural heritage, traditions, and customs.
2018 Highlight, On International Mountain Day in 2018, Josué Lorca, President of Venezuela’s National Parks Institute, visited the mountains of Sierra Nevada de Mérida. He announced measures to extend the life of Venezuela’s last remaining glacier, underscoring the need for mountain conservation in the face of climate change.
Theme of 2024
The theme for International Mountain Day 2024 is: “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future – innovation, adaptation, youth, and beyond.”
This year, the focus is on empowering mountain communities through innovation, adaptation, and active youth participation. The theme highlights the critical role of mountain communities and youth in building a sustainable future.
Why Do We Need International Mountain Day?
Mountains are precious treasures of nature that need to be preserved. They are home to 15% of the world’s population and harbor nearly half of the planet’s biodiversity hotspots. Mountains provide fresh water for daily life to half of humanity, sustain agriculture, and support clean energy and medicine supplies.
Unfortunately, mountains are under threat due to climate change, overexploitation, and pollution. These threats not only endanger the environment but also pose significant risks to the people living in these regions.
As global temperatures rise, mountain glaciers are melting, disrupting water supplies to downstream areas. Communities in mountain regions, often among the world’s poorest, are facing increasingly severe survival challenges.
Due to steep slopes, deforestation for agriculture, settlements, or infrastructure leads to soil erosion and habitat loss. Erosion and pollution degrade water quality and reduce soil productivity. In developing countries, 311 million rural mountain dwellers live in areas where land degradation persists, and 178 million of them face food insecurity.
A Problem That Affects Us All, This issue impacts everyone. We must reduce our carbon footprint and take care of these natural treasures.
International Mountain Day, observed since 2003 under the leadership of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), raises awareness about the significance of mountains. It highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with mountain development and encourages collaboration to bring positive changes for mountain communities and their environment.
Information About the Mountains of the World
Mountains are not only symbols of natural beauty but are also vital for the environment, culture, and human life. Let’s take a closer look at some fascinating details about the major mountains of the world and India.
- Highest Mountain Peaks in the World
The highest mountains in the world are located in the Himalayas. Here are some notable ones:
| Rank | Mountain Name | Country(s) | Height (meters) |
| 1 | Mount Everest | Nepal/China | 8,848.86 |
| 2 | K2 (Godwin Austin) | Pakistan/China | 8,611 |
| 3 | Kangchenjunga | India/Nepal | 8,586 |
| 4 | Lhotse | Nepal/China | 8,516 |
| 5 | Makalu | Nepal/China | 8,485 |
- The Smallest Mountain in the World
Mount Taal, located in the Philippines, is considered the smallest mountain in the world. It stands at just 2.4 meters tall, but its historical and cultural significance makes it unique.
- The Largest Mountain in the World (Base to Summit)
Mauna Kea, located on the Hawaiian Islands (USA), is the largest mountain on Earth when measured from its base beneath the sea. Its total height is 10,210 meters, which surpasses Mount Everest.
- The Coldest Mountain
Vinson Massif, situated in Antarctica, is the coldest mountain in the world. Temperatures here can drop to as low as -70°C, reflecting the harsh conditions of Antarctica.
- The Hottest Mountain
Flaming Mountain, located in China, is considered the hottest mountain in the world. Situated in the Taklamakan Desert, temperatures here can soar up to 66°C.
Mountains of India
The mountains of India are not only symbols of natural beauty but are also crucial for climate, agriculture, and culture.
Major Mountain Ranges
- Himalayas
- The Himalayas are the tallest mountains in India.
- Kangchenjunga (8,586 meters) is the highest peak in India.
- The Himalayas regulate India’s climate and are the source of major rivers.
- About 80% of India’s water comes from the Himalayas.
- The monsoon reaches India due to the presence of the Himalayas.
- Satpura and Vindhya Ranges
- Located in central India, these ranges are significant.
- The Narmada and Tapti rivers flow between these mountain ranges.
- They hold geographical and cultural importance.
- Western and Eastern Ghats
- These ranges are located in the southern part of India.
- The Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- These ranges house numerous biodiversity hotspots.
- Smallest Mountain in India
- Some smaller mountains located in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh are considered among the smallest in India. Though their height is modest, they are renowned for their natural beauty and cultural significance.
Interesting Facts About Mountains
Mountains are among the most beautiful creations of nature. These massive and sturdy structures stand tall against the sky and seem to envelop entire regions in their shadow. Mountains are not only sources of recreation and resources but are also vital for agriculture, providing ample space for cultivation on their slopes.
- Role of Mountains in the Water Cycle
Mountains play a crucial role in the water cycle. The snow that falls on mountains in winter accumulates and melts during spring and summer, supplying essential water for settlements, agriculture, and industries in lower regions.
Even in semi-arid and arid areas, approximately 90% of river water originates from mountains. For instance, the Alps in Europe, covering about 11% of the Rhine River basin, provide 31% of its annual flow and over 50% of its water during summer.
- Source of Energy and Resources
The water flowing from mountains is a major source of hydroelectric energy. In developing countries, wood fuel from mountain regions is a primary energy source. Whether it’s wood for fuel or coal, these resources are crucial for people living around mountainous areas and in urban regions. Additionally, wood from mountains is used for numerous other purposes.
- Contribution to Ecology and Biodiversity
The mountain ecosystem plays a significant role in biodiversity. Mountains provide habitats for various plants and animals, contributing to maintaining ecological balance.
Types of Mountains
Mountains are classified into different types based on their origin and structure. The following are the three main types of mountains:
- Extinct Volcanic Mountains
These mountains are formed from ancient volcanoes that have cooled and become inactive. Volcanic activity has ceased, and these mountains are now stable.
Example: Mauna Kea (Hawaii).
- Fold Mountains
Fold mountains are created when tectonic plates collide, causing the Earth’s crust to compress and rise upwards. These mountains have been developing since ancient times and are large and tall in size.
Example: The Himalayas.
- Block Mountains
Block mountains are formed when a section of rock on the Earth’s surface is uplifted, while the surrounding areas subside. This process occurs due to faulting.
Example: Vindhyachal Mountains.
These three types of mountains result from various geological processes and have distinct origins.
Conclusion
Mountains are an integral part of our environment, life, and culture. Learning about them not only enhances our knowledge but also emphasizes the importance of their conservation. Mountains are nature’s invaluable gift, and it is the responsibility of every individual to protect them. International Mountain Day is a significant step toward this goal.
FAQs
Q1. Why is International Mountain Day celebrated?
To promote the conservation of mountains and highlight their importance.
Q2. What is the highest mountain in India?
Kangchenjunga (8,586 meters).
Q3. Why are the Himalayas important?
They help maintain climate balance, provide water resources, and support biodiversity.
Q4. What is the tallest mountain in the world?
Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters).
Q5. Where is the smallest mountain in India located?
In the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh.
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