Chewang Norphel, a retired civil engineer from Ladakh, is the man behind artificial glaciers a revolutionary yet quiet contribution to society.

What Did He Do?

In Ladakh’s harsh terrain, farmers were suffering due to water scarcity during sowing season. Norphel observed that natural glaciers melted too late in the year to help crops grow.

Instead of waiting for government schemes, he took matters into his own hands:

• He built artificial glaciers by channeling winter stream water into shaded areas, where it froze.

• When spring came, the ice melted just in time for early irrigation.

• One glacier alone could irrigate over 200 hectares of land.

Impact:

• Over 10,000+ villagers benefited from his innovation.

• He built 12+ artificial glaciers in Ladakh.

• Improved food security in regions with no consistent water access.

Why Isn’t He Celebrated?

Despite winning awards like the Padma Shri, Chewang Norphel's story remains largely unknown outside Ladakh. He never sought media attention. His humility outshone his achievements.

Not all heroes stand on podiums.
Some bend quietly over frozen ground, thinking of how to melt a little water to feed hundreds.