28 Features Added to the Official Map
Ladakh’s New Geographical Features on Official Maps: The Government of India, in coordination with the Union Territory of Ladakh, has identified and formally standardised the names of 28 geographical places and features for representation on Survey of India maps. The move improves consistency in the identification and depiction of important geographical locations.
The newly identified features cover a wide range of landforms, including peaks, mountains, passes, glaciers, valleys, rivers, lakes and other geographical areas. Standardised geographical names are important for administration, planning, research, navigation and public reference.
Peaks and Mountains
Among the 28 identified features, 10 are classified as peaks. They include Atisha Giri, Kanishka Peak, Martand Giri, Zorawar Peak, Rinchen Zangpo, Sakyasri Giri, Marpa Lotsava Ri, Milarepa Kangri, Shiva Ri and Maheshvara Ri.
Three locations have been classified as mountains — Karun Pir, Drak Karpo and Jolmori. These names will form part of the standard geographical reference used in official mapping.
Static GK fact: Ladakh is a high-altitude region of the Trans-Himalayan area and is known for its rugged mountains, cold desert landscape, glaciers and high mountain passes.
Passes and Glaciers
Two mountain passes have been included in the list: Chapchingal Pass and Shachmirk Pass. Mountain passes are important geographical features because they provide natural routes through otherwise difficult high-altitude terrain.
The two glaciers identified are Parpik Glacier and Skamri Glacier. Glaciers are major components of the Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan water system and contribute to downstream river flows.
Static GK Tip: A glacier is a persistent mass of ice that moves slowly under its own weight. Glacial melt contributes to river systems and is particularly important for water availability in high-altitude regions.
Other Geographical Features
The remaining locations represent different categories of geographical features. Shkorga Valley is identified as a valley, while Yangpa River is classified as a river and Guru Rinpoche as a lake.
Several locations, including Brangsa, Kuksel, Dehra Compass, Gogra, Kumarayana Point, Panglung and Shamal Lungpa, are classified as land areas. Hot Spring is recorded as a water body.
The complete set of names therefore reflects the geographical diversity of Ladakh, ranging from elevated peaks and mountains to glaciers, valleys and water features.
Survey of India and Official Mapping
The Survey of India (SoI) is the country’s national survey and mapping organisation. It functions under the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology.
Its work includes topographical surveying, mapping and the generation of geographical information used for administration, infrastructure planning, development, scientific research and other national requirements.
Static GK fact: The Survey of India was established in 1767 and is one of the oldest scientific institutions in India.
Significance for Ladakh
Standardising these 28 names provides a common geographical reference for government departments, researchers, cartographers and the public. It can also improve consistency in official documents and maps relating to Ladakh.
The exercise highlights the diverse physical geography of the Union Territory and strengthens the role of authoritative mapping in documenting India’s geographical landscape.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Ladakh’s New Geographical Features on Official Maps:
| Fact | Detail |
| Region | Union Territory of Ladakh |
| Features identified | 28 |
| Official mapping organisation | Survey of India |
| Peaks | 10 |
| Mountains | 3 |
| Passes | 2 |
| Glaciers | 2 |
| Valley | Shkorga Valley |
| River | Yangpa River |
| Lake | Guru Rinpoche |
| Water body | Hot Spring |
| Survey of India | Established in 1767 |
| Administrative ministry | Ministry of Science and Technology |
