<span style="color: #222222;">Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has revealed that the first Dark Sky Reserve of South East Asia will soon be established in the Hanle area of Eastern Ladakh.<br />''This first-ever Night Sky Sanctuary will be a collaborative initiative with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics under the aegis of the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.<br />''<br />''The announcement was made during the minister's address at the inauguration of the 'Ladakh's Pride' exhibition in New Delhi, commemorating the fourth anniversary of the formation of Ladakh Union Territory.</span><br />''<br />''This initiative aims to promote astro-tourism in the region. Dr. Singh commended the active involvement of LG Ladakh, Dr. B. D. Mishra, in bringing this project to fruition. The proposed Dark Sky Reserve, will be located in the Hanle village neighbouring the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which is renowned for hosting the world's second-highest optical telescope at an elevation of 4500 meters.<br />''<br />''Encompassing an area of 1,073 square kilometers, this Night Sky Reserve is expected to attract astronomy enthusiasts globally, further enhancing India's reputation in the field.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Dr. Jitendra Singh has expressed his intention to seek the inauguration of the Night Sky Reserve by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on behalf of the Ministry of Science & Technology and CSIR</span><br />