Mountains have been integral part of the human civilization. A mountain is a large landform that stretches above the surrounding land in a limited area, usually in the form of a peak. A mountain is generally steeper than a hill.
Mountains have an extremely important role in influencing global and regional climates and weather conditions. It covers around one-quarter of the earth’s land surface and are home to millions of people around the world. Indirectly, billions more living downstream also benefit from mountains.
Mountains are the reservoirs of many resources. It provides us with freshwater, energy, food, biodiversity, etc.
It is also a place for many human beings apart from other flora and fauna. Mountain ecosystems are found through the world but some areas have more mountain ecosystem while others have less.
An estimated one-tenth of the human population derives their life-support directly from mountains. It is also important for people living in low land.
Mountains are the sources of fresh water that we drink and it is also source of hydroelectric power. They are also very prone to climate changes, land degradation, deforestation and natural disasters.
In addition, mountain people very often face marginalization, poverty, and the lack of basic services such as health and education.
The economic relationships of mountain communities are also undergoing transformation.
Even the most remote mountain community has always been linked to regional or global markets for crucial commodities such as salt. But the communication is a challenge in many mountain areas.
The United Nations General Assembly designated 11 December “International Mountain Day (IMD)”. As of 2003, it has been observed every year to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to build alliances that will bring positive change to mountain peoples and environments around the world.
Promoting mountain products is the theme chosen for this year’s celebration of IMD.
Globalization offers opportunities for mountain producers to market their high quality mountain goods, such as coffee, cocoa, honey, herbs, spices and handicrafts at the national, regional and international levels. Though mountain agriculture may not compete with the prices and volumes of lowland production, it can concentrate on high value, high quality products to enhance local economies.
The challenge is to identify new and sustainable opportunities that can bring benefits to both highland and lowland communities and help to eradicate poverty without contributing to the degradation of fragile mountain ecosystems.
Tourism-related services such as skiing, climbing, cultural heritage or nature trails that allow visitors to discover distinctive biodiversity are also some of the offerings provided by mountains and mountain communities. If sustainably managed, tourism can offer an opening for development in mountain regions.
It is important for all of us to protect the mountain ecosystem as it might be under threat due to climate change.
This day is an opportunity to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to make partnerships that shall bring positive transformation to the world’s mountains.
Ranjan K Baruah
(Feedback may be sent to bkranjan@gmail.com)
Monday, April 6, 2026