International Mountain Day 2025: Glaciers' Vital Role & Melting Crisis

• International Mountain Day 2025 will be observed on December 11, recognizing the importance of mountains for life.
• The 2025 theme is "Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in mountains and beyond," highlighting their critical role as freshwater sources.
• Glaciers, storing 70% of the world's freshwater, are melting rapidly due to global warming, threatening over 2 billion people.
• Designated by the UN in 2002, the day aims to raise awareness and inspire action for mountain preservation and climate change mitigation.
• Popular Indian winter destinations include snow-covered Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu-Kashmir, cultural Rajasthan, and festive Kerala or Goa.

Why It Matters: Glaciers are melting, threatening water and food for billions.