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Situated in the remote Ladakh region of the Himalayas, Hanle is a village that has recently undergone a remarkable transformation. Located at an altitude of nearly fifteen thousand feet, the area is characterized by its thin, dry air and extreme temperatures. While most people would normally avoid such a harsh environment, Hanle has become a destination for thousands of visitors who are drawn by its most precious resource: the night sky.

In 2022, Hanle was officially designated as India’s first Dark Sky Reserve. This recognition was largely due to the absence of light pollution, which allows for exceptionally clear views of the universe. Consequently, tourism in the region has flourished, with annual visitor numbers increasing from three thousand to nearly thirty thousand within a short period. This shift has not only boosted the local economy but has also provided unique professional opportunities for the local population.

Among those benefiting from this change are four young women known as Hanle’s ‘astro-ambassadors’. During the day, these women manage traditional responsibilities, such as running family homestays and catering to guests. However, once night falls, they take on a more scientific role. Having been trained by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, they use high-powered telescopes and laser pointers to guide tourists through the complex patterns of the constellations.

The transition into these roles was not without its challenges. Initially, the women were apprehensive about handling the sophisticated and expensive equipment, fearing they might cause damage. Nevertheless, through a specialized fifteen-day training course, they developed the skills needed to identify celestial bodies and even photograph the Milky Way. Today, they speak with great authority, sharing their knowledge with tourists from around the world.

The success of Hanle highlights a vital lesson: environmental preservation and economic progress are not mutually exclusive. By protecting the pristine darkness of their skies, the community has secured a sustainable future. It serves as a powerful reminder that what locals may consider ordinary can be seen as extraordinary by the rest of the world.

1. What is the main purpose of the article?

• A.To explain the scientific importance of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
• B.To describe how dark sky tourism has benefited a local community.
• C.To provide instructions on how to photograph the Milky Way.
• D.To warn readers about the dangers of light pollution in the Himalayas.

2. According to the text, why is Hanle an ideal location for a Dark Sky Reserve?

• A.It has a high population of professional astronomers.
• B.The government has invested in high-powered telescopes there.
• C.The air is dry and there is a lack of artificial light pollution.
• D.It is located at a low altitude with warm weather.

3. What can be inferred about the ‘astro-ambassadors’ from the fourth paragraph?

• A.They had previous experience working with advanced technology.
• B.They were originally uninterested in the night sky.
• C.Their confidence grew as they mastered new skills.
• D.They prefer their daytime roles to their nighttime responsibilities.

4. What was the women’s primary concern when they started their training?

• A.The difficulty of learning English for tourists.
• B.The risk of breaking the costly tools they had to use.
• C.The cold temperatures they would face at night.
• D.The lack of time to manage their family homestays.

5. Which word is closest in meaning to ‘flourished’ as used in the second paragraph?

• A.Changed
• B.Prospered
• C.Identified
• D.Commenced