Bengaluru : UNIQLO, the Japanese global apparel retailer, has partnered with the 17000 ft Foundation to provide HEATTECH thermals to students at Government High School, Salampora, in Drass, Ladakh. Through this initiative, UNIQLO is bringing its global The Heart of LifeWear programme to one of India’s coldest regions, helping children stay warm and comfortable through the winter months.
Through its partnership with the 17000 ft Foundation, UNIQLO distributed 4,000 pieces of HEATTECH thermals to students and community members in remote communities across Ladakh, where winter temperatures can fall well below freezing temperatures. Alongside the donation, UNIQLO members explained the technology behind HEATTECH and how the clothing can help keep them warm during the winter months.
Kenji Inoue, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, UNIQLO India, said, “Through The Heart of LifeWear, we are pleased to bring HEATTECH to local students and extend our support to the wider community through the colder months. This initiative reflects UNIQLO’s commitment to creating a positive impact through our business and contributing meaningfully to the communities we serve.”
The programme was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Drass Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), LAHDC Councillor Abdul Samad, DIET Kargil Principal Khurshida Bano, alongside representatives of the 17000 ft Foundation and local education officials.
Nidhi Rastogi, Director, Marketing & CSR, UNIQLO India, said, “We chose Drass for The Heart of LifeWear initiative because of the extreme weather conditions the region faces. Through our partnership with 17000ft, we reached out to the students and community in Drass to provide warmth during the winter months, reflecting the power of clothing to make a difference in people’s everyday lives.”
The programme is part of UNIQLO’s global The Heart of LifeWear initiative, which brings clothing to communities facing difficult circumstances around the world. In 2025, UNIQLO donated more than one million HEATTECH items across 28 countries and regions.
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