During his visit, the Prime Minister explored the rich collection of Ladakh’s indigenous products, traditional handicrafts, handloom creations and locally manufactured products showcased under Brand Ladakh. The pavilion featured a diverse range of products, including GI-tagged Ladakhi Pashmina and apricot products, Sea Buckthorn juice and other products, Alfalfa honey, traditional wood carvings, Thangka paintings and exquisite handicrafts. Tourism brochures highlighting Ladakh’s renowned destinations, cultural heritage and adventure tourism attractions were also displayed.

The Prime Minister interacted with representatives from Ladakh and enquired about the indigenous products, their production processes, nutritional value and health benefits. He particularly expressed interest in Sea Buckthorn juice and appreciated the region’s unique, locally sourced products. He also interacted with traditional cultural artists and appreciated their traditional attire and cultural representation.

The visit provided national recognition and encouragement to Ladakh’s local producers, artisans, entrepreneurs and cultural communities. The participation of Ladakh at Bharat Parv 2026 offered a prestigious national platform to promote its indigenous products, traditional craftsmanship and rich cultural identity.

From a tourism perspective, the showcase highlighted Ladakh’s immense potential as a premier destination, renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, unique cultural traditions, spiritual heritage and adventure tourism. Such national-level exposure is expected to enhance Ladakh’s visibility, promote local products, strengthen market linkages and generate greater interest among prospective visitors.

The Ladakh Pavilion was coordinated by Nazir Hussain, Deputy Secretary, Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture & Languages (LAACL), along with Zakir Hussain, Account Officer, Directorate of Tourism; Ghulam Rasool, Tourist Officer, Department of Tourism; and Lundup Dorjai, Cultural Officer, LAACL.

The participation of the Ladakh delegation in Rashtriya Ekta Diwas and Bharat Parv 2026 is being undertaken under the guidance of the Lieutenant Governor, UT Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, and under the leadership and supervision of Sanjeet Rodrigues, Secretary, Department of Tourism & Culture, UT Ladakh.

The visit of the Prime Minister marks a proud milestone for Ladakh and reinforces the vision of Vocal for Local, promoting indigenous products, empowering local artisans and entrepreneurs, preserving cultural heritage and showcasing Ladakh’s unique identity and tourism potential on the national and international stage.

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The meeting reviewed election preparedness, operational arrangements and logistical requirements, with emphasis on meticulous planning, inter-departmental coordination and timely completion of all necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth, secure and orderly conduct of the electoral process.

At the outset, Secretary, Rural Development Department, Ms. Nidhi Malik, made a detailed presentation on the overall preparedness for the Panchayat Elections 2026, covering the number of blocks, Sarpanch and Panch constituencies, polling locations, Returning Officers (ROs), election schedule, logistical requirements and deployment of personnel.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the preparedness of the concerned departments at each stage of the election process, including nomination procedures, availability of election materials and ballot boxes, appointment and training of polling personnel, and preparation of polling-party deployment schedules. He stressed the need for daily monitoring of nominations and complaints, timely submission of election-related reports, and regular coordination with the concerned election authorities. He also directed the officers to ensure that all prescribed election materials and polling kits are arranged and dispatched well in advance.

The meeting also discussed the identification and security of strong rooms and counting centres at district and block levels. The Chief Secretary emphasised the need for secure storage of election materials, adequate security arrangements in coordination with the Police Department, and proper planning for the movement and deployment of polling parties. He called for clear and standardised procedures for transportation, route planning, zonal arrangements and reporting to ensure uniformity across districts.

Taking stock of logistical challenges, particularly in remote and snow-bound areas, the Chief Secretary directed the officers to identify polling locations that may face accessibility issues and prepare appropriate contingency plans. These plans should account for road and weather conditions, snow clearance, alternative routes, advance movement of polling parties wherever necessary, and adequate arrangements for food, heating, accommodation and communication. He also underscored the need to assess transport requirements in advance to ensure that polling personnel reach their designated locations safely and on schedule.

The Chief Secretary further reviewed arrangements relating to manpower rationalisation, deployment of teachers and other government personnel on election duty, training schedules, polling-party dispatch, law-and-order preparedness, excise arrangements and coordination at border posts. He called for a coordinated, district-wise assessment of expenditure, logistical requirements and operational preparedness, along with timely finalisation of movement plans and reporting formats. The concerned officers were directed to maintain regular communication with the Secretariat and submit daily updates on nominations and other key election-related developments.

The meeting was attended by Director General of Police, Ladakh, Anand Jain; Secretary, Rural Development Department, Ms. Nidhi Malik; Secretary, Finance, Tsewang Tharchin; Chief Electoral Officer, Ladakh, Rahul Sharma; Secretary, General Administration Department, Rudra P. T. Goud; Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Romil Singh Donk; and other senior officers and officials concerned with election preparedness.

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In a detailed clarification issued on Wednesday, the Administration said the previous Excise Policy of 2025-26 had been restored after feedback from people and social organisations. Under the restored policy, two liquor shops were permitted in Leh, but only one became operational after an auction on October 14, while no bid was received for the second shop. The clarification came in response to Wangchuk’s remarks during a press conference in New Delhi on October 22.

“As per the old Excise Policy, only two liquor shops in Leh were permitted in ward number 4 and 6. One wine shop became operational following an auction on October 14, 2026, while no bid was received in the auction. Consequently, as on date, only one liquor shop is operational in the entire Ladakh as earlier it was two”, the UT administration said.

“With regard to opening of liquor bars, the administration said that as on date 50 retail vend of liquor in a bar with restaurant–38 in Leh, 7 in Nubra, 3 in Zanskar and 2 in Changthang– are currently operational across the Union Territory. Two beer bars are also operational in Leh. Besides this, 9 hotels in Leh have liquor license, out of which 4 have applied and issued this year. One hotel in Nubra also applied and got license this year”, the administration stated.

The administration said that licences are issued to only those who apply as per norms and are issued in accordance with the “distance criteria” from highways, religious and educational institutions. The distance criteria has also been adopted for the license issued to hotels. Hence, Wangchuk’s claim of opening “Bars in every street, locality & around schools” also holds no ground, the administration said.

“These official records contradict Wangchuk’s deliberate campaign of falsehood and misinformation that “liquor shops are being opened in every nook and corner of Ladakh”. Clearly, the averments made by Mr Wangchuk are false, baseless and to “create unnecessary public alarm”.

The Administration advised Wangchuk to “take a brief pause from such statements and verify the facts, from official sources, before feeding completely false and imaginary claims to the national media and the people at large”.

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The demand was raised during a meeting with Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra on Tuesday, where women representatives, including members of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) and other religious bodies, urged the administration to consider public sentiment and the region’s cultural values while framing its excise policy.

The administration, however, called for wider consultations, citing the potential social, cultural and economic consequences of a blanket ban.

The women representatives put forth their views and concerns while demanding complete prohibition of liquor in Ladakh, highlighting the social and cultural considerations associated with the issue. They expressed concern over the large number of bar licenses issued.

The participants were apprised of the status of liquor licences under the reinstated policy. It was informed that the number of retail liquor vends was two till last year but this year only one retail vend is functional. Similarly, the number of functional bars attached to restaurants offering retail sale of liquor, which was earlier 23, had increased by 17 newly issued licences, taking the total to 40.

The Chief Secretary acknowledged the concerns expressed by the women representatives and emphasised the importance of giving due consideration to the views and sentiments of the people of Ladakh. He observed that the demand for declaring Ladakh a completely dry UT is a significant matter that requires careful deliberation and consultation with all concerned stakeholders for which all agreed to. He cited the experience of other states like Bihar and Haryana where complete prohibition had led to serious consequences of spurious liquor and drugs being proliferated. He suggested that this is also a cultural issue and the community needs careful consideration of the consquences of declaring Ladakh as a dry territory. There are also issues of employment , tourism and economic activity and consultation with hotel industry is also crucial in this regard, particularly given that tourism is the primary economic activity in the territory.

He stated that any decision on the matter would need to be taken through a broad-based consultative process involving religious organisations, hotel associations, tour and travel operators’ associations, and other relevant stakeholders, keeping in view the social, cultural and economic dimensions of the issue. He suggested that in the first instance, President LBA should convene a wider consultation and build consensus on the way forward, with an endeavour to find a middle ground.

The Chief Secretary reiterated the importance of constructive dialogue and mutual understanding in addressing the concerns raised by the women representatives while ensuring that the perspectives of all affected stakeholders are duly considered.

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The achievement marks a significant step towards protecting Ladakh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem, improving soil and water health, enhancing farmers’ incomes and ensuring a healthier future for generations to come. Building on its traditional farming practices and unique agro-ecological conditions, Ladakh is positioning itself as a model for sustainable high-altitude agriculture.

The development also reinforces Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting natural farming, environmental conservation, improving soil health and climate-resilient agriculture.

Congratulating the farmers and all stakeholders, the Lieutenant Governor said, “This is a moment of immense pride for Ladakh and the entire nation. Our farmers have demonstrated that environmentally responsible agriculture can flourish even in the most challenging geographical conditions. Becoming a fully organic Union Territory is not merely a milestone; it is a commitment to protecting our fragile Himalayan ecosystem, preserving our traditional farming practices and ensuring better livelihoods for our farmers.”

Notably, in a major policy intervention in July 2026, the Lieutenant Governor had ordered a complete prohibition on the procurement, distribution, sale, marketing and use of chemical and synthetic fertilisers for agricultural practices across Ladakh. The move is aimed at safeguarding organic certification, protecting soil and water resources and strengthening the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.

The Administration has also taken steps to support farmers during the transition. In March 2026, consignments of organic fertiliser were flagged off for distribution among farmers across villages of Ladakh to ensure timely availability before the sowing season.

The organic transition is expected to create new opportunities for Ladakh’s farmers by improving the value of locally grown organic produce, including apricots, sea buckthorn, buckwheat, barley and vegetables. Organic certification, better post-harvest management, value addition, branding and stronger market linkages can help farmers access consumers who increasingly seek authentic, traceable and organically produced food.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the achievement must translate into tangible benefits for the farming community. “Our goal is to ensure that the organic status of Ladakh brings real value to our farmers through better market access, improved price realisation and sustainable livelihoods. We must combine traditional wisdom with scientific support, strengthen organic value chains and protect our natural resources. Let Ladakh’s achievement inspire other States and Union Territories to adopt sustainable agriculture in accordance with their own geographical conditions and farming traditions,” he said.

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The technical sessions focused on improving Pashmina fibre yield while preserving its quality, restoring high-altitude grasslands, exploring the potential of yak and sheep wool, strengthening certification systems and expanding market opportunities for Ladakh’s traditional fibre and handicraft sector.

The session on “Goat Production, Grassland Restoration and Fibre Yield” featured presentations by Dr Feroz Din Sheikh, Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding, HAL.RI, University of Ladakh, Stakna Campus; Dr Khursheed Ahmad Dar of SKUAST; Dr Ronnie Lamb, who joined online; and Dr Rashmi Singh, who spoke on the International Year of Rangelands. Discussions highlighted sustainable livestock management, grassland conservation and scientific approaches to improving fibre productivity.

A session on “Yak and Sheep Wool: Fibre and Livelihoods” explored fibre characteristics, diverse applications and opportunities to strengthen sustainable livelihoods among pastoral communities.

Deliberations on spinning, weaving, testing and certification highlighted the role of modern technologies and scientific advancements in enhancing the quality and value of Ladakh Pashmina. R. Naresh, Founder and Managing Director of Shuttles & Needles Pvt. Ltd. and Ashford India distributor, shared insights into modern tools and techniques for value addition. Experts from CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology and the Pashmina Certification Centre discussed scientific authentication, quality assurance, the evolution of certification systems and the importance of protecting Pashmina’s identity in domestic and international markets.

The session on “Cooperatives, Proof of Origin and Geographical Indication (GI)” brought together local entrepreneurs and experts to discuss traceability, certification and the role of cooperatives in safeguarding the identity of authentic Ladakh Pashmina. Discussions also covered the ‘Pashmina Mark’ initiative of the Textiles Committee and Central Wool Development Board, GI implementation and lessons from the branding of Kashmir Pashmina.

The deliberations emphasised the importance of strengthening producer collectives, establishing credible proof-of-origin mechanisms and ensuring that the benefits of authentic Pashmina reach the Changpa pastoralists, artisans and other stakeholders who sustain this traditional craft.

The afternoon session on “Branding, Packaging and Marketing”  is focusing on strategies to position Ladakh Pashmina as a distinctive premium product. Karun Ahuja, Director, Ahujusons, is scheduled to speak on developing an umbrella brand for Ladakh Pashmina, while Prithvi Ranjan and Pragya Dubey of the National Institute of Design (NID) are scheduled to share perspectives on branding, packaging and storytelling. Ahmad Naqush is also scheduled to discuss the legacy of Pashmina and its contemporary market potential.

The ongoing conclave continues to provide a platform for collaboration among government departments, scientific institutions, industry experts, cooperatives and entrepreneurs, with a focus on integrating sustainable pastoralism, scientific research, quality assurance, GI protection, value addition and market development to strengthen the livelihoods of Ladakh’s Pashmina-producing communities and enhance the global recognition of Ladakh Pashmina.

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On the occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and the Department of Industries and Commerce, UT Ladakh, to strengthen cooperation for the promotion and development of the Pashmina sector. The Lieutenant Governor also released a postal stamp on GI-tagged Ladakh Pashmina, recognising the unique identity, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural heritage associated with this precious fibre.

A key component of the conclave, the Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet, aims to bring Pashmina producers and enterprises closer to buyers, textile manufacturers, designers, and other market stakeholders. The platform will facilitate direct interactions, help producers understand market requirements, showcase local products, and explore business opportunities and potential commercial partnerships. Direct engagement with buyers can help reduce dependence on multiple intermediaries and provide a greater understanding of quality, grading, processing, and traceability standards required in domestic and international markets.

Saxena said that the recognition of Ladakh Pashmina must translate into tangible economic benefits for those who produce it. “Our vision is clear: Pashmina must be produced in Ladakh, processed in Ladakh, branded as Ladakh Pashmina, and taken to the world from Ladakh,” he said, underscoring the need to strengthen local value addition and ensure that the benefits reach Changpa herders, artisans, women-led self-help groups, and young entrepreneurs.

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that, alongside promoting scientific breeding, improved shearing and combing practices, cleaner fibre collection, and sustainable pasture management, the Administration is working to increase the Pashmina goat population from approximately two lakh to four lakh within three years.

The participation of delegates from Mongolia, Japan, and Thailand added an international dimension to the conclave. Their presence provided opportunities to exchange experiences and explore cooperation in traditional pastoral livelihoods, fibre quality, processing, craftsmanship, product design, and access to international markets.

The Lieutenant Governor urged delegates from Mongolia to facilitate exchanges of herders, technicians, and researchers between Changthang and the Mongolian steppe to share knowledge and strengthen traditional pastoral practices. He invited Japanese partners to collaborate with Ladakh in precision spinning and finishing, quality certification, traceability, design partnerships with Japanese brands, and establishing direct links with buyers in Japan. Emphasising the scope for international cooperation, he said, “We are not competitors. We are partners in the story of fine natural fibre.”

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The last municipal elections in the two towns were held in September 2018. According to the schedule announced by Chief Electoral Officer Rahul Sharma, the nomination process will begin with the issuance of the election notification on October 29, while the entire election process is to be completed by November 30.

The Model Code of Conduct shall come into force with immediate effect and shall remain in force until the completion of the election process. All political parties, contesting candidates and concerned authorities are required to adhere strictly to the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and the instructions issued by the competent authority from time to time, the notification said.

A notification issued by the CEO on Friday said “In pursuance of the provisions of Section 282 of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, read with the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Committee (Election) Rules, 2003, the superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls, determination of wards, reservation and allotment of seats by formation, and the conduct of all elections to Municipalities shall vest in the Chief Electoral Officer.”

“The electoral rolls of the Municipal Committee, Leh, comprising 21 Wards, and the Municipal Committee, Kargil, comprising 17 Wards, have been finally published on 22nd October, 2026, with reference to 1st October, 2026 as the qualifying date”.

According to the electoral schedule issued by the CEO, notification for elections to the Municipal Committee, Leh and Kargil will be issued on 29 October. The last date for making nominations is 5 November. Scrutiny of nominations will be done on 6 November and the last date for withdrawal of candidature is 9 November.

Allotment of symbols and publication of the list of contesting candidates will be done on        9 November and polling has been fixed on 21 November.  The election process shall be completed on 30 November.

The elections shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, and the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Committee (Election) Rules, 2003, the CEO ordered.

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At a press conference at Delhi, Wangchuk said the LAB and KDA representatives had scheduled their plans around the October 22 meeting after exchanging draft proposals with the Union Home Ministry on October 15. Claiming that both sides were expected to discuss differences in their respective drafts, he said the failure to hold the meeting had undermined the understanding reached during the May 22 discussions. The two drafts were compared point by point, with the expectation that differences would be discussed at the next meeting, he said.

“I had already booked my tickets. We made our plans accordingly, but now they are saying the meeting is not happening,” Wangchuk said, describing the development as another betrayal of trust.

The May 22 meeting had raised hopes of a democratic framework for Ladakh, he said. The representatives had initially sought statehood but, after being told that the region lacked the resources for it, proposed a Union Territory with a legislature and constitutional safeguards, Wangchuk said.

“We are saying again that nothing less than a Union Territory with a legislature and safeguards will be acceptable,” he said.

Wangchuk said Ladakh’s strategic position on the border with China made its democratic rights particularly important.

“China is claiming Ladakh as its territory. We condemn that. But do not crush Ladakh under your feet,” he said, warning the government against weakening the border region through its own decisions.

“Do not weaken the borders because of your stubbornness,” he added.

The May 22 meeting between representatives of LAB and KDA, and the MHA sub-committee had focused on constitutional protection for Ladakh, democratic representation and the long-pending demand for statehood.

Wangchuk had then said the government had proposed safeguards for Ladakh on the lines of Articles 371A and 371G and had agreed in principle to a governance structure for the entire region rather than limiting powers to district councils.

Wangchuk asserted on Thursday that the demand for a legislature was rooted in the need to give Ladakh’s people a say in how the region was governed.

At present, decisions were being taken unilaterally by the administration. The district councils, too, had seen their powers curtailed, he claimed.

“An LG has been appointed like a British Viceroy, who makes unilateral decisions. This is a blot on Indian democracy,” Wangchuk alleged.

He also raised concerns about the protection of Ladakh’s land, resources and identity, noting that around 90 per cent of its population belonged to tribal communities. He said local people risked being marginalised in decisions involving corporate interests and questioned policies that, he alleged, were being pursued without adequate public consent.

Wangchuk cited protests by women against the expansion of liquor sales, saying many people wanted Ladakh to remain a dry region.

The climate activists also acknowledged some positive developments in Ladakh, including a High Court bench and improvements related to roads and airport, but said these could not substitute for democratic rights.

“Whatever good has happened, we salute it. But nobody wants a cage, even if it is made of gold,” he said.

Citing the example of Arunachal Pradesh, which was granted statehood in 1987 despite its sensitive border location, he argued that strategic considerations should not be used to deny Ladakh an elected legislature.

Wangchuk condemned China’s claims over Ladakh, saying the region should be strengthened by giving its people the same democratic rights as citizens elsewhere in India, rather than leaving them without a say in their own governance.

Referring to the September 24, 2025 violence in Leh, Wangchuk said the protest had been peaceful with people sitting on a hunger strike, yet people had been killed.

Asked about the ongoing protests against the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), Wangchuk said the debate on electoral reforms should also cover places such as Ladakh, where people did not have the right to elect representatives to a legislative assembly.

“The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls was one aspect of a broader question about democratic rights… elections alone are not enough if promises made to people were not fulfilled,” he said, calling for larger electoral reforms.

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The proceedings were conducted in the presence of Sudhanshu Pandey, State Election Commissioner (SEC), UT Ladakh; Romil Singh Donk, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Leh;  Delex Namgyal, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Leh; Saqib Sharief Khan, District Panchayat Officer, Leh; and other government officials.

Representatives of various political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC), along with representatives of other political parties, were also present during the proceedings.

Subsequently, the Draw of Lots for the reservation of seats for women in the Municipal Committee Leh was held at the DC Conference Hall, Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Leh, in the presence of Shri Romil Singh Donk, Deputy Commissioner, Leh.

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The LG announced his decision on X saying “In our continued commitment to fostering unity, healing, and lasting peace in Ladakh, I have approved the withdrawal of criminal cases against 10 individuals, linked to the unfortunate violence that erupted in Leh on September 24 last year”.

“Approval has been granted in wake of the Ladakh police recommending withdrawal of cases against these 10 individuals”.

“This decision ensures a positive path forward for these individuals with their careers and lives. It prioritizes justice, healing and recovery over prolonged litigation, thereby, fostering a stronger sense of peace, unity, and social harmony across the region”, the LG said.

“My sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Union Home Minister, Shri @AmitShah Ji for his sympathetic and sensitive approach, in matters pertaining to the victims and their families”, he added.

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The newly established Ladakh Bench of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh located at a breath-taking height of over 11,500 feet above sea level, began regular hearing of the cases from today.

The day began with the hearing by the Division Bench in which the Chief Justice heard the matters through virtual mode while Justice Sanjay Parihar was present physically at the Ladakh Bench. After the conclusion of the hearing of five listed Division Bench matters, Justice Sanjay Parihar sat singly and dealt with as many as 60 matters listed before the single bench. Today’s proceedings made use of technology to facilitate a sort of hybrid hearing with the Chief Justice hearing through Virtual Mode and Justice Sanjay Parihar doing physical hearing.

Justice Parihar said that the identification of the 65 cases that were listed today reflects the initial effort to organise and facilitate the hearing of matters concerning litigants from Ladakh.  He added that the successful commencement of regular judicial hearings today by the Chief Justice in such a high-altitude location is a landmark achievement in the country’s judicial infrastructure and commitment to ensuring that geographical barriers do not become obstacles to justice.

The establishment of the Ladakh Bench is a significant step in strengthening the reach of constitutional institutions to remote and geographically challenging regions of the country.

Earlier, litigants from Leh, Kargil and other far-flung areas of Ladakh would undertake lengthy journeys to Srinagar or Jammu for proceedings before the High Court. The commencement of hearings here is also encouraging for the legal fraternity of Ladakh including advocates.

It may be mentioned that Ladakh Bench of J& K High court was formally inaugurated by the Chief Justice of India, Mr. Justice Surya Kant on October 18, 2026, at Melongthang, Leh.

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The approval paves the way for initiating recruitment against 103 sanctioned regular posts in a phased manner, in accordance with academic requirements. The development marks a significant step towards fulfilling the long-standing aspiration of the people of Ladakh for access to quality medical education within the Union Territory.

The Government Medical College in Leh would expand opportunities for students aspiring to pursue medical education, strengthen clinical training facilities and contribute to the long-term development of healthcare services in Ladakh.

On 13 July, 2026, the Lieutenant Governor had written to Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J. P. Nadda, seeking a one-time relaxation from the condition requiring nearly 80% completion of infrastructure before initiating recruitment of faculty and support staff for the Medical College. The intervention was aimed at enabling preparatory recruitment to begin in time for the proposed commencement of academic activities, even as the construction of the dedicated academic infrastructure progresses.

Taking cognisance of the Lieutenant Governor’s request and the urgency involved, the MoH&FW agreed to the request, suggesting that the recruitment against the 103 posts will be undertaken in a staggered manner from academic year 2027–28 onwards, based on academic requirements identified by the UT Administration.

The UT Administration will also ensure that the posts are filled on a regular basis in accordance with the approved Recruitment Rules and that the Medical College shifts to its dedicated infrastructure, as soon as the proposed facilities are completed.

L-G Saxena thanked the Health Minister, Shri JP Nadda, saying the operationalisation of the Government Medical College in Leh is an important milestone for Ladakh and fulfils a long-standing aspiration of the people.

“I am grateful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda Ji for their continued support towards strengthening healthcare and medical education in Ladakh. This approval will enable us to begin the process of building the required academic team in a phased manner, in line with the academic needs. Our objective is to provide the youth of Ladakh greater access to quality medical education while strengthening the region’s healthcare system. We will work to ensure that all necessary arrangements are made for the commencement of the Medical College in the academic year 2027–28,” Saxena said.

As an interim arrangement, two newly constructed buildings have been identified to serve as the Academic Block and Students’ Hostel. The existing 200-bedded SNM Hospital, supported by around 60 experienced doctors, can provide the clinical training required for the first batch of MBBS students. The interim facilities will be used temporarily, in accordance with the conditions stipulated by the Department of Expenditure, until the dedicated infrastructure is completed.

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With a fleet of 73 ambulances with trained drivers, the service is designed to respond promptly to medical emergencies in every situation – whether a road accident, a tourist’s medical need, any high-altitude emergency, or any expecting mother requiring transportation to the hospital.

Under the service, every village has been mapped to a designated ambulance and driver, with each ambulance linked to its nearest health centre. The ambulances are located, on average, approximately 13 kilometres from the villages they serve.

The objective is to ensure that anyone facing a medical emergency in any remote part of Ladakh receives immediate assistance at their doorstep and is able to reach a healthcare facility in time.

Taking a step further towards maternal healthcare, the health workers have gone from village to village to collect information about expecting mothers. Their expected delivery date has been recorded, and each woman has been linked to the ambulance and driver assigned to the village nearest to her.

More than 1,100 pregnant women across Ladakh have already been included in the centralised database. This advance planning will help health workers know when a woman’s expected delivery date is approaching, where she lives, and which ambulance is available to transport her to the hospital. The system is intended to facilitate timely arrangements and reduce the risk of delays, particularly in remote settlements and during harsh winter conditions, when arranging transport at short notice can be especially difficult.

Describing the launch of “Sanjeevni Sewa” as a significant milestone and a new lifeline for the people of Ladakh, the Lieutenant Governor said it is the Administration’s commitment that no citizen will be left alone in a difficult situation or during a medical emergency.

Addressing the launch, the Lieutenant Governor said, “A health system is judged not merely by its buildings, but by how quickly it reaches a mother in labour, an accident victim or a critically ill patient in a remote village. Through Ladakh Sanjeevani Seva, we are ensuring that medical assistance reaches people when they need it most. Special attention is being given to pregnant women and critically ill patients. Our aim is simple – no person in Ladakh should be denied timely medical care because of distance or the inability to find transport.”

The district-wise deployment of the 73 ambulances is as follows: Leh – 18; Kargil – 17; Changthang – 12; Sham – 9; Nubra – 9; Zanskar – 4; and Drass – 4.

The ambulance service will also support patients suffering from cancer, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke and serious lung diseases. Many of these patients require repeated hospital visits for treatment, and arranging transport can place considerable physical, emotional and financial pressure on them and their families.

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The showcase celebrated Ladakh’s world-renowned Pashmina, indigenous textiles and traditional craftsmanship, with a special focus on the Changthang pastoral communities and artisans who preserve this unique heritage.

Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, addressed the event virtually and highlighted the importance of connecting traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, entrepreneurship and wider markets. He emphasised that the benefits of growing recognition must reach Pashmina herders, weavers, craftspeople, women entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups while preserving the authenticity of Ladakh’s indigenous traditions.

The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the Department of Industries and Commerce, UT Ladakh, for providing a prominent platform to local designers, artisans and traditional craft enterprises. He expressed confidence that such initiatives would preserve Ladakh’s cultural heritage, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and strengthen the region’s economic growth.

Conceptualised and facilitated by the Department of Industries and Commerce, UT Ladakh, under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India, the initiative was supported by FDCI. It aims to promote Ladakh’s indigenous products, strengthen local enterprises and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and market access.

Four designers and artisanal brands from Ladakh—Namza by Padma Yangchan, Zilzom by Stanzin Palmo, Changra Ladakh by Deskit Angmo, and Charkha Ladakh by Rigzin Yangdol—presented their interpretations of the region’s textile heritage, blending traditional techniques with contemporary designs.

Namza by Padma Yangchan presented 18 ensembles featuring brocade fabrics and Pashmina. Zilzom by Stanzin Palmo showcased 18 ensembles featuring self-designed silk prints inspired by Changthang’s landscapes, along with contemporary interpretations of snambu, a traditional Ladakhi woollen textile. Changra Ladakh and Charkha Ladakh highlighted the authenticity and quality of indigenous craftsmanship through handspun and handwoven Pashmina shawls.

A key highlight of the showcase was the participation of artisans from Changthang, bringing the people behind Ladakh’s renowned Pashmina craftsmanship into the national fashion spotlight. The presentation traced the journey of Pashmina from the high-altitude pastures, where Changpa pastoralists rear indigenous Changra goats, to the skilled hands of artisans and women who transform the fine fibre into exquisite textiles.

Shalini Passi added glamour to the showcase as the showstopper, wearing a gown designed by Zilzom. The renowned Dashugs band complemented the presentation with a live musical performance, bringing together fashion, music and cultural storytelling.

The Department of Industries and Commerce has been supporting Ladakh’s traditional craft sector through Common Facility Centres, skill-upgradation programmes, improved production facilities and assistance for traditional handloom enterprises. These initiatives aim to improve product quality, encourage innovation, strengthen the craft value chain and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Inspired by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for Aatmanirbhar Bharat and under the guidance of Lieutenant Governor Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, the UT Administration is working to connect Ladakh’s traditional strengths with contemporary design, modern production systems and wider markets.

Strengthening the Pashmina value chain is particularly important for Changthang’s pastoral communities. Greater integration of fibre production, spinning, weaving, designing and marketing can help generate more value locally and expand economic benefits for herders, artisans, women and entrepreneurs.

Building on the momentum of the fashion showcase, the Ladakh Pashmina Conclave, scheduled for October 23–24 under the RAMP Scheme, will bring together producers, artisans, designers, entrepreneurs and buyers to explore market opportunities and establish business linkages. More than 50 stalls and over 100 entrepreneurs and buyers are expected to participate, providing a platform for product displays, direct buyer-seller interactions and potential commercial partnerships.

While Lakmé Fashion Week has brought Ladakh’s craftsmanship to a prominent national platform, the upcoming conclave aims to translate this visibility into sustainable business opportunities and stronger market connections.

Ladakh’s participation in Lakmé Fashion Week marks an important step towards positioning its textile traditions in contemporary fashion and luxury markets while safeguarding their cultural significance. “The Fifth Season: A Fashion Story from Ladakh” celebrates the people, skills and generations of knowledge behind Ladakh Pashmina, connecting traditional heritage with innovation, entrepreneurship and global opportunities.

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The Chief Secretary said that infrastructure projects worth approximately ₹3,350 crore were dedicated to the people of Ladakh, with around 10,000 people from all seven districts participating virtually in the programme.

Key highlights included the completion of the Leh Airport Terminal, valued at approximately ₹640 crore, with flight operations commencing on October 16; improved connectivity to Zanskar, reducing travel time from Leh from nearly 12 hours to approximately three hours; and the commissioning of the 9 MW Hanu Hydropower Project, taking the combined capacity of the Dha and Hanu projects to 18 MW.

Emphasising water conservation, the Chief Secretary stated that, in response to public demand, the Lieutenant Governor had directed an increase in the number of Amrit Sarovars from 40 to 100 across Ladakh. He also highlighted the Petroglyph Park along the Indus as an important initiative for preserving and showcasing the region’s rich archaeological heritage and historical links with the Silk Route.

On the ongoing dialogue concerning constitutional safeguards, the Chief Secretary described the successive meetings between Ladakh’s representatives and the MHA as constructive, with tangible progress towards addressing the aspirations of the people. He highlighted key measures already undertaken, including enhancement of Scheduled Tribe reservation to 84 per cent, recruitment of 107 local candidates against 109 Group A doctor posts through UPSC, recognition of Bhoti and Purgi as official languages, and one-third reservation for women in the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs).

The Chief Secretary informed that, following discussions on October 15, the MHA shared a detailed framework document with Ladakh’s representatives on October 16. The document proposes a two-stage approach involving a constitutional amendment and a subsequent regulation under Article 240 of the Constitution, with provisions envisaged for a directly elected Union Territory-level body and safeguards concerning land, natural resources, culture and other issues raised by the representatives.

He clarified that the document was intended to facilitate further discussion and was not the outcome of a concluded legislative process. The proposed constitutional provisions and the subsequent regulatory framework would require detailed examination and deliberation before being finalised.

The Chief Secretary said that several institutional questions remained open for consideration and examination, including the nomenclature and composition of the proposed body, the method of election, representation of women and underrepresented communities, nominated and ex-officio members, the authority responsible for conducting elections, delimitation of constituencies, electoral rolls, tenure and the relationship of the proposed body with existing institutions such as the LAHDCs, Panchayats and municipalities.

Reaffirming the Central Government’s commitment to the dialogue, the Chief Secretary said the objective was to arrive at a balanced and workable framework that reflects the democratic aspirations of the people while ensuring institutional clarity and taking into account its distinctive geographical, cultural and administrative circumstances through sustained dialogue and mutual understanding.

The Chief Secretary emphasised that these issues could not be settled unilaterally and required broad-based consensus among the leadership and stakeholders of Ladakh. He urged all stakeholders to approach the process constructively and expressed hope that the remaining issues would be resolved through continued consultation in the coming weeks and months.

The Chief Secretary also highlighted the establishment of the High Court Bench in Leh as a significant milestone in improving access to justice in Ladakh. The presence of the Hon’ble Chief Justice and Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, along with the Attorney General of India, underscored the importance of the occasion. He noted that the initiative, operationalised within a span of two months, would significantly ease access to High Court services for the people of Ladakh by reducing the need to travel to Jammu or Srinagar. He described it as a proactive initiative of the Government of India, reflecting its sensitivity to Ladakh’s geographical challenges and commitment to bringing justice closer to the people.

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Water scarcity in Sodh tehsil has severely affected agriculture and rural livelihoods, forcing some residents to migrate from their villages. The new water bodies are expected to improve water availability, support agricultural sustainability and help revive village life.

During his previous visit to the area on September 2, 2026, the Lieutenant Governor had witnessed first-hand the acute water shortage and its adverse impact on local agriculture and livelihoods. Taking immediate cognisance of the situation, he had directed the district administration to identify potential water sources, including nearby glacier streams, that could be channelised to ensure a more dependable water supply to the villages.

The project envisages channelising nearby glacier streams to meet local water requirements, ensuring a more reliable water supply for agricultural activities and rural households. The Lieutenant Governor directed that the two reservoirs, with a combined storage capacity of approximately 60–70 lakh litres, should be completed by the end of November.

Emphasising the importance of water security for agriculture and rural development, L-G Saxena directed Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, to take the necessary measures to ensure adequate irrigation water for the people of the concerned areas. He stressed that effective water conservation and management are essential for protecting livelihoods, sustaining agricultural activities and securing the long-term development of rural communities.

During the programme, Yourbaltak Councillor Manzoor Hussain also submitted a memorandum to the Lieutenant Governor, highlighting key developmental and public welfare issues concerning the constituency. The Lieutenant Governor assured residents that the Administration would examine and address their genuine concerns on priority.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that the Administration remains committed to people-centric and inclusive development, focusing on ensuring reliable water resources, strengthening rural livelihoods, and improving the quality of life across Ladakh.

The event was attended by the Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Mohmad Hanifa Jan; Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra; elected representatives; councillors; senior officers; and other dignitaries from the UT Administration and Kargil district.

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The meeting on Thursday in Leh exposed significant differences between the Centre’s 15-page proposal and the alternative draft submitted by Ladakhi representatives, particularly over constitutional safeguards and the nature of the region’s future governance. With both sides sticking to their respective positions, the talks ended without a breakthrough, leaving the MHA to respond to the demands raised by the LAB and KDA.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the LAB and KDA, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, BJP leader Tashi Gyalson and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil Chief Executive Councillor Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon.

LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook said, “We also shared our draft with the MHA, which gave a presentation on its draft. There were gaps between the two drafts and there was a lack of consensus. We expect a fresh response from the MHA to our draft to reach a consensus. We will also study and prepare our response to the MHA draft”.

Lakrook asserted that the demand for a legislature for Ladakh and special constitutional safeguards remained non-negotiable. “We stand by the understanding reached in the previous meetings. We hope the Centre keeps its promise”, he said.

Wangchuk described the meeting as a continuation of the dialogue rather than a failure but flagged the wide differences between the two proposals.

“The MHA draft was not satisfactory. We expect a revised draft to be shared by the MHA with Ladakhi groups by 18 October, given the huge differences between the two. We hope the MHA will narrow down the differences before the 22 October talks. Otherwise, we were perplexed to see the MHA draft”, he said.

The KDA also rejected the Centre’s proposal as inadequate, with its co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai saying it did not reflect the aspirations of the people of Ladakh. “It does not match the demands of Ladakhis. We will continue to seek democratic and constitutional rights and guarantees”, Karbalai said.

Gyalson said the discussions were aimed at reaching a resolution after years of deliberations, and that the meeting considered the MHA’s 15-page draft alongside suggestions submitted by the LAB and KDA. The next round will be held in New Delhi on 22 October, he added.

Ladakh was made a separate Union Territory in August 2019 after the Centre revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and reorganised the erstwhile state into two Union Territories. Since then, the LAB and KDA have been at the forefront of the demand for statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, safeguards for local employment and land rights, and a legislature for the region.

The Centre had indicated in July this year that it was considering a customised constitutional arrangement for Ladakh, including a possible framework under Article 371 and a legislature for the region.

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The Revenue Department, UT Ladakh, issued Notification S.O. 286 dated October 16, 2026, under Section 5 of the Jammu and Kashmir Land Revenue Act, 1996, as applicable to the Union Territory of Ladakh, in continuation of earlier notifications dated April 27, 2026, and July 12, 2026.

As per the notification, the reorganisation covers Aryan Valley Tehsil in Sham district; Sodh Tehsil in Kargil district; Phey Tehsil in Zanskar district; Thasgam Tehsil in Drass district; and Himya Tehsil in Changthang district. The notification specifies the revenue villages to be included in the respective tehsils, along with their designated headquarters.

The revenue villages specified in the notification shall cease to form part of their existing tehsils and shall become part of the newly constituted tehsils concerned from the date the notification comes into force.

In another significant decision, responding to the long-standing public demand, the Administration has entrusted the powers of the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Durbuk, to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Durbuk. The decision aims to strengthen local administration, enhance administrative accessibility and ensure timely delivery of public services to the people of Durbuk.

The notification shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

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The Revenue Department, UT Ladakh, issued Notification S.O. 284 dated October 16, 2026, under Section 5 of the Jammu and Kashmir Land Revenue Act, 1996, as applicable to the Union Territory of Ladakh, in continuation of Notification S.O. 180 dated April 27, 2026.

As per the notification, the newly created Sankoo district comprises four tehsils: Sankoo, GM Pore, TSG and Taisuru, along with the revenue villages specified in the notification.

The jurisdiction of Kargil district has been modified by excluding the tehsils and revenue villages now included in Sankoo district.

The notification shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

The creation of Sankoo district marks an important administrative development for the region and is expected to facilitate governance and public service delivery closer to the people.

The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has also notified the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Sankoo, for the newly created Sankoo district under the provisions of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils Act, 1997.

As per Notification S.O. 285 dated October 16, 2026, issued by the Revenue Department, UT Ladakh, the Lieutenant Governor has notified the LAHDC, Sankoo, for the district of Sankoo under sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Act.

The Council shall exercise such powers and perform such functions as prescribed under the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils Act, 1997, as amended from time to time.

Consequently, the jurisdiction of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil, shall be modified by excluding the tehsils and revenue villages falling within Sankoo district.

The notification further states that elections to the Council shall be held in due course, following the issuance of a formal notification under Section 8 of the Act.

The notification shall come into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

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LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook said China’s claims were not supported by recorded history and that Ladakhis had been living with India for the past 75 years. He called on the Union Home Ministry to intervene firmly, while other leaders stressed that the people of Ladakh, particularly those in border villages, had consistently stood with the Indian Army in protecting the frontier.

Dorjay said China was illegally occupying Aksai Chin which was a part and parcel of Ladakh.

He urged the Union Home Ministry to issue a firm response to Beijing, saying “We strongly condemn the Chinese remarks claiming that Western Ladakh has always been part of China. We reject this statement because Ladakh has never been under China”.

The diplomatic friction follows a statement from Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, who criticized India’s recent decision to assign standardized names to 28 strategic locations within Ladakh. Beijing claimed that it has never recognized the Union Territory of Ladakh, labeling its establishment as illegal. In response, local leaders have united to denounce these remarks, viewing them as an affront to the region’s identity and its long-standing relationship with India.

Konchok Stanzin, a former councillor for the Chushul region, who also spoke in the press conference, highlighted the role of border residents in national security. He noted that civilians in Ladakh have historically stood alongside the Indian Army to protect the frontier, citing the 1962 conflict as a testament to their loyalty.

Stanzin stressed that the younger generation in border areas remains steadfast in its opposition to Chinese aggression, viewing such territorial claims as entirely unacceptable.

Former Nubra MLA Deldan Namgyal pointed to the deep-rooted spiritual bond between the people of Ladakh and the Dalai Lama, noting that this connection has fostered a clear opposition to Chinese policies. Namgyal explicitly rejected any suggestion that the local population might be aligned with Beijing, characterizing the relationship as one of deep-seated ideological and spiritual disagreement.

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Recalling his earlier laying of the foundation stone for the Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport terminal in Leh, the Prime Minister expressed delight at inaugurating the 650-crore-rupee facility that triples flight capacity and expands annual passenger handling from 10 lakh to 35 lakh. He highlighted that the terminal is India’s first to feature geothermal heating alongside solar energy usage to suit the harsh climate, energizing local tourism while balancing infrastructure growth with ecological care. “Our effort is to develop modern infrastructure in Ladakh while taking full care of the local environment,” asserted Shri Modi.

Underscoring the strategic and economic value of regional connectivity, the Prime Minister dedicated the 2,500-crore-rupee Nimmu–Padum–Darcha road to the citizens, noting that it slashes travel time from 12 hours down to just 3 hours. He emphasized that beyond saving commuters’ time, this vital corridor will significantly boost local commerce. “This road will also greatly help trade and business,” noted Modi.

Building upon his prior inauguration of the Srinagar-Leh transmission line, the Prime Minister dedicated the Hanu hydroelectric project and its associated transmission network while noting ongoing modern power generation initiatives in Puga Valley. He explained that reliable electricity transforms rural life by illuminating homes and empowering children’s education, healthcare delivery, and small-scale enterprises. “Every sector will benefit from it,” observed Modi.

Focusing on agricultural resilience and water security across the high-altitude terrain, the Prime Minister dedicated 40 newly constructed reservoirs developed under Project Amrit Him Sarovar to the local community. He stated that these water bodies are designed to support the agrarian economy during critical cultivation cycles.”These will help in providing water for irrigation to farmers at the time of need,” noted Modi.

The Prime Minister detailed sweeping infrastructural gains since Ladakh became a Union Territory in 2019. He noted that the road network has expanded from 1,800 kilometers to over 4,000 kilometers, major bridges have increased from 19 to nearly 75, helipads have grown from 7 to over 40, tap water coverage has surged from 3.5 percent to nearly 99 percent of households, hospital beds have doubled, and the ongoing Zojila Tunnel is set to provide all-weather national connectivity.”Today, for the Central Government, the development of Ladakh is a top priority,” asserted Modi.

Highlighting targeted efforts to unlock new avenues of regional prosperity, the Prime Minister pointed to the active promotion of winter and adventure tourism across the territory. He added that over 40 border settlements are currently being upgraded under the Vibrant Villages program to stimulate grassroots economic activity.”This is creating employment opportunities even in far-flung villages,” noted Modi.

Illustrating the rapid expansion of hospitality and modern agriculture, the Prime Minister observed that local homestays have multiplied from roughly 150 to 3,000. He simultaneously highlighted the continuous promotion of protected cultivation, which has resulted in 11,000 operational greenhouses across the region.”These have created new possibilities for increasing farmers’ income,” observed Modi.

Addressing a long-standing regional demand for closer judicial access, the Prime Minister announced that the government officially approved the establishment of a High Court Bench for Ladakh in August this year. He stated that fulfilling this crucial institutional requirement will streamline both governance and legal recourse for citizens.”This will make the justice system accessible alongside administration,” affirmed Modi.

Emphasizing the role of digital connectivity in driving modern commerce for hotels, restaurants, homestays, and local crafts, the Prime Minister detailed the expansion of BharatNet and high-speed internet across remote pockets of the territory. He explained that continuous efforts are underway to ensure seamless access to e-governance, online education for youth, and global market integration for local entrepreneurs.”Today online business is opening new avenues of income,” noted Modi.

Prioritizing the educational empowerment of the younger generation so they do not have to migrate to other cities, the Prime Minister highlighted the construction of a major Center of Excellence in Leh alongside advancing proposals for satellite campuses of IIT Jammu and IIM Jammu. He stated that these premier institutions will equip local students with advanced research and modern technological skills right at their doorstep.”The youth of Ladakh will be able to get better opportunities for higher education, research, and new skills right in their own region,” affirmed Modi.

Recognizing the distinct athletic identity carved out by local youth in ice hockey, winter sports, and mountaineering, the Prime Minister welcomed the implementation of Ladakh’s new sports policy to nurture regional talent. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to providing world-class training facilities to help local athletes excel globally.”We are striving to provide the local youth with enhanced training and facilities so they can scale new heights on national and international platforms,” asserted Modi.

Praising the exceptional craftsmanship of local artisans and farmers, the Prime Minister shared how he frequently gifts Ladakhi products, having presented them to the German Chancellor, the Swedish Prime Minister, and the President of Kyrgyzstan, while highlighting the vast commercial potential of sea-buckthorn, handicrafts, GI-tagged apricots, high-altitude commercial floriculture, and the traditional Pashmina crafted by the Changpa community. He stressed that the government is actively strengthening Pashmina’s global identity and expanding market branding for regional goods.”Our effort is that the products here get new markets, get better branding, and their benefits reach the producers directly!” asserted Modi.

Honoring the priceless cultural heritage of ancient monasteries, Buddhist traditions, and festivals inspired by Revered Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, the Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park in Leh to safeguard historic rock art. He emphasized that preserving this legacy ensures both future generations and global visitors can deeply connect with the region’s antiquity.”People coming from the country and the world will also become familiar with the rich history of Ladakh,” affirmed Modi.

Concluding his address with deep optimism for the territory’s trajectory, the Prime Minister reiterated his faith in collective action to elevate the region to unprecedented developmental milestones. He offered his final congratulations and traditional greetings to the citizens for the newly launched infrastructure works.”Together we all will take Ladakh to new heights of development,” affirmed Modi.

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Between January 1 and September 30, 2026, Ladakh received 4,60,667 tourists as compared to 3,35,872 visitors during the entire year of 2025. The tourist arrivals during the first nine months of 2026 have already surpassed the total footfall recorded in the previous year by 37.16%, reflecting Ladakh’s growing appeal as a destination for cultural experiences, adventure tourism, sporting events, and its unique natural heritage, with three months still remaining in the current year.

Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, attributed this massive growth to improved connectivity and promoting events like Ladakh Bike Week, Ladakh Marathon, Ladakh Festivals, and recent pioneering initiatives like the world’s highest-altitude Lilium flower fields and the introduction of India’s first high-altitude wildlife safari, which have added to the people’s growing charm for Ladakh.

The growth is equally evident in the comparison of the corresponding nine-month periods. Ladakh received 2,78,599 tourists between January and September 2025, while the number rose to 4,60,667 during the same period in 2026, registering a substantial 65.38% increase.

Tourist arrivals have risen across both domestic and foreign segments. During the first nine months of 2026, Ladakh welcomed 4,20,927 domestic tourists and 39,740 foreign tourists, compared to 3,03,838 domestic and 32,034 foreign tourists during the corresponding period in 2025. This represents growth of approximately 38.54% in domestic tourist arrivals and 24.06% in foreign tourist arrivals.

In the month of September 2026, domestic tourist arrivals rose from 29,888 to 49,188, while foreign tourist arrivals increased from 4,722 to 6,394 during the month.

Saxena has emphasised the importance of promoting festivals and events to extend tourism beyond the traditional peak summer season. “Our aim is to encourage travel during shoulder and off-season periods, diversifying the tourism economy and creating more sustained livelihood opportunities for local residents. The Administration’s focus is not limited to increasing visitor numbers, but also on ensuring that tourism growth translates into tangible benefits for local communities,” said Saxena.

The growth in tourist footfall has been supported by the Administration’s efforts to expand Ladakh’s tourism calendar through festivals, sporting events, and cultural programmes. Events such as the Ladakh Festival, Ladakh Marathon, Ladakh Bike Week, and Ladakh Zanskar Festival have added to the region’s appeal, attracting visitors interested in its distinctive culture, traditions, landscapes, and adventure tourism experiences.

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The visit was undertaken as part of the efforts of the Fisheries Department UT Ladakh to explore technical collaboration with MPEDA for strengthening the trout sector and assessing the existing production systems, infrastructure, quality standards, post-harvest practices and future marketing potential of trout produced under Ladakh’s unique high-altitude cold-water conditions.

During their visit to Leh, the team visited Trout Fish Farm Sindhu Shey where they inspected the existing trout-rearing facilities and assessed water availability, production practices and the scope for further strengthening the farm. The experts shared technical suggestions relating to scientific stocking, feeding, water-quality management, fish health and hygienic handling of harvested fish.

The MPEDA experts also visited trout-rearing established under centrally sponsored scheme of PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matysa Sampada Youjna) by local fish farmers at Chochut village and interacted extensively with them to understand their experiences, production practices and challenges associated with trout farming. The farmers apprised the visiting team about issues relating to availability and cost of quality trout feed and seed, winter management, water availability, fish health, production costs and marketing of harvested trout. The experts provided technical guidance on scientific stocking density, feeding management, regular monitoring of water-quality parameters, disease prevention and hygienic harvesting and handling.

The experts observed that Ladakh’s clean cold-water resources and distinctive high-altitude environment provide considerable potential for positioning Ladakh trout as a premium high-value product. They emphasized that consistent production, quality assurance, certification, cold-chain infrastructure, value addition and reliable market linkages would be essential for accessing wider domestic and potential export markets.

The visit is expected to facilitate greater technical collaboration between the Fisheries Department, UT Ladakh and MPEDA/RGCA in areas such as technical audit of trout farms, Good Aquaculture Practices, capacity building of fish farmers and departmental personnel, quality certification, post-harvest management, value addition, cold-chain development and exploration of suitable domestic and export markets.

The visit highlighted the significant potential of Leh, Chuchot and Nubra for developing a sustainable and commercially viable high-value cold-water fisheries sector, leveraging Ladakh’s natural cold-water resources and combining scientific aquaculture practices with quality assurance, value addition and stronger market linkages for enhancing the income and livelihood opportunities of local fish farmers and entrepreneurs.

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During the meeting, Secretary, SIDCO, Himanshu Gupta, provided an overview of the proposed single-window clearance mechanism for film production. The Chief Secretary emphasised the need to develop a dedicated online portal through SIDCO, establish clear timelines for approvals and ensure a coordinated, time-bound process to facilitate film shoots across Ladakh.

Secretary, Information and Public Relations, Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary, highlighted the potential of cinema to promote Ladakh’s culture, landscapes and tourism, drawing attention to the region’s growing visibility. He stressed the importance of learning from film policies adopted by other states, particularly Himalayan regions, while developing a policy suited to Ladakh’s unique geography, culture and tourism potential.

The Chief Secretary emphasised the need to consult local filmmakers and the film fraternity to understand their requirements and identify practical measures to support filmmaking in Ladakh.

The meeting discussed the possibility of establishing a common film facility equipped with essential production and post-production infrastructure, including filming equipment and dubbing facilities, which could be made available to filmmakers on a rental basis. The need to identify a suitable location and develop a sustainable operational model for such a facility was also highlighted.

The meeting further deliberated on organising a Himalayan film festival to showcase local and regional cinema, promote Ladakhi filmmakers and provide a platform for filmmakers from neighbouring Himalayan regions, including Nepal and Bhutan.

The Chief Secretary stressed the need to begin preparations well in advance for the proposed festival, including identifying its theme, format, timeline and implementation arrangements. Discussions also covered local film screenings, outdoor screenings, documentaries on sustainability and wildlife, animation, and opportunities to highlight Ladakh’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage through cinema.

Administrative Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Sanjeet Rodrigues, offered suggestions on promoting local cinema, supporting the regional film fraternity, facilitating film shoots through a single-window mechanism and exploring suitable schemes for local producers. The meeting also discussed incentives for film production, possible support for equipment procurement, location-based facilitation, winter filming opportunities and the role of the Ladakh Film Society in strengthening the local film ecosystem.

The Chief Secretary called for further consultations with filmmakers and other stakeholders to develop a practical and comprehensive policy framework. He emphasised that the proposed initiatives should facilitate film production, encourage local talent, create opportunities for the youth and strengthen Ladakh’s identity as a film and tourism destination.

The meeting was attended by Himanshu Gupta, Administrative Secretary and Managing Director, SIDCO; Baser-ul-Haq Chaudhary, Secretary, Information and Public Relations; Sanjeet Rodrigues, Administrative Secretary, Tourism and Culture; Mohammad Taqi, Joint Director, Information and Public Relations; and other officers from the concerned departments.

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The meeting was attended by Secretary, Planning, Himanshu Gupta; Secretary, School Education, Bhanu Prabha; Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof. Saket Kushwaha; Dean, College Development Council, Tsewang Motup; principals of colleges in Leh, Kargil, Khaltsi, Nubra, Drass and Zanskar; senior faculty members, deans, award-winning teachers and other concerned officials.

During the meeting, Dean, College Development Council, Dr. Tsewang Motup, presented a comprehensive overview of higher education in Ladakh, covering Sindhu Central University, the University of Ladakh and the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS).

The presentation highlighted college-wise sanctioned, filled and vacant teaching posts, faculty deputation to the University of Ladakh, Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) trends over the past five years, student retention, transition from schools to colleges and measures to improve enrolment.

The Chief Secretary held detailed deliberations on faculty availability, recruitment, course offerings and enrolment across colleges. Secretary, School Education, informed the meeting that stakeholder feedback was being sought on the draft Recruitment Rules for the Common Teaching Cadre, including Assistant Professor posts, before the proposal is forwarded to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) after October 15.

The meeting also examined college-wise enrolment, admission trends and the availability of courses in remote areas, including Kargil, Zanskar, Nubra and Drass. The Chief Secretary emphasised the need for a comprehensive assessment of institutional capacity and student demand to strengthen existing colleges and ensure equitable access to quality higher education across the Union Territory.

Underscoring the importance of linking education with local needs and employment opportunities, the Chief Secretary called for exploring specialised courses in agriculture, horticulture, nursing, teacher education, hotel management, fashion technology and other professional fields relevant to Ladakh. He stressed that course planning should be based on student demand, regional potential, faculty availability and employment prospects, with opportunities for private-sector participation also being examined.

The meeting further discussed strengthening competitive examination coaching, improving career counselling, promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing industry exposure for students. The Chief Secretary stressed the need to make effective use of available faculty expertise and explore academic programmes that enable students to pursue higher education and professional opportunities within Ladakh.

Emphasising the importance of measurable educational outcomes, the Chief Secretary called for a mechanism to track students after graduation and assess their progression into higher studies, competitive examinations and employment. He also stressed the need to strengthen practical learning, exposure to modern technologies and awareness of relevant government schemes.

The Chief Secretary encouraged research and academic projects focused on Ladakh-specific priorities, including agriculture, floriculture, market linkages and local economic development. He emphasised that higher education institutions should strengthen their academic offerings in line with the region’s socio-economic requirements and emerging opportunities.

The meeting focused on developing a coordinated approach to address faculty shortages, improve enrolment and retention, rationalise course offerings where necessary, and expand access to relevant, quality and employment-oriented higher education across Ladakh.

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The decision follows a request made by the President of the All Ladakh Goba Association during an interaction between the Lieutenant Governor and Nambardars from different parts of Ladakh on October 3, at Lok Niwas. The Association had sought the removal of the age limit of 60 years, provided the Nambardars remained capable of discharging their responsibilities and continued to enjoy public support.

Under the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, the term of office of a Lambardar is five years or until the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier. Exercising the powers conferred under Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972, read with Rule 16 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, the Lieutenant Governor has raised the maximum age limit to 63 years, while retaining the prescribed five-year term.

The decision is aimed at ensuring continuity in local administration, preserving institutional and traditional knowledge, and providing greater stability in community-level governance. It will also help address the practical challenges of replacing experienced Nambardars in Ladakh’s remote villages and difficult terrain, while ensuring smoother administrative transitions.

“Nambardars are an important link between the administration and the people, particularly in Ladakh’s remote and geographically challenging areas. Their experience, knowledge of local traditions, and close connection with their communities are valuable assets. By rationalising the age limit, we seek to ensure continuity in grassroots governance and enable experienced community leaders to continue contributing,” said Saxena.

Notably, Nambardars or Gobas play an important role as a bridge between the administration and local communities. Their understanding of local issues, traditions, and public concerns helps strengthen last-mile governance and improve the delivery of government services and welfare schemes.

The decision builds on the Lieutenant Governor’s earlier initiative to enhance the monthly emoluments of Nambardars from Rs.1,500 to Rs.5,000. The increase recognised their contribution to local administration and strengthened support for those who serve as a vital link between the government and the people.

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During the visit yesterday, the Chief Secretary inspected various sections of the new terminal, including the Departure Lounge, Arrival Lounge, Waiting Area, Frisking Area, Food Lounge and other passenger facilities. He reviewed the overall readiness of the terminal and assessed the progress of the remaining works required to make the facility fully operational.

Airport Director, Airports Authority of India, KBR Airport Leh, A. Umasankar, briefed the Chief Secretary on the status of the ongoing works and the arrangements being put in place ahead of the inauguration. He apprised the Chief Secretary of the progress made across different sections of the terminal and the works pending for completion.

The Chief Secretary directed the concerned officers to expedite the remaining works and ensure that all necessary arrangements are completed within the stipulated timeline. He stressed the need for close coordination among all concerned agencies to ensure timely completion of the pending works and readiness of the terminal for its inauguration.

He further emphasised that all passenger amenities and essential facilities should be fully functional and properly maintained, keeping in view the convenience, comfort and safety of passengers.

The visit was aimed at taking a first-hand assessment of the preparedness of the new terminal and ensuring that all requisite arrangements are in place ahead of its inauguration.

Secretary, Civil Aviation, Nidhi Malik; Airport Director, Airports Authority of India, KBR Airport Leh, A. Umasankar; and other concerned officers and officials accompanied the Chief Secretary during the visit.

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The Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated 24 two-BHK police family quarters to improve accommodation and welfare of personnel; launched the official Emblem, Flag, Logo and badges of the Ladakh Fire & Rescue Service to strengthen its identity and professionalism; inaugurated its official website to provide citizens easy access to fire-safety services and information; and released the Comprehensive Fire Safety Handbook to enhance fire prevention, preparedness, emergency response and public awareness.

The Lieutenant Governor inspected the parade and took the salute of the marching contingents during the ceremonial march past. He also presented awards to the Overall Best, Indoor Best, Outdoor Best and Best Marchman among the Sub-Inspectors, Head Constables, Followers and SPOs. The Chief Drill Inspector was also felicitated on the occasion for his contribution to the training and preparation of the personnel.

A total of 114 newly recruited SPOs have successfully completed their training and are being inducted into Ladakh Police. They will be deployed in the newly created districts of Nubra, Sham, Changthang, Drass and Zanskar, augmenting police manpower and strengthening the Police presence closer to communities in remote and difficult-to-access areas.

The passing-out parade also marked the successful completion of pre-promotional courses by 99 police personnel. These include 8 Sub-Inspectors undergoing courses for promotion to Inspectors, 9 Assistant Sub-Inspectors for promotion to Sub-Inspectors, 77 Head Constables for promotion to Assistant Sub-Inspectors, and 5 Police Followers for induction as Constables.

Congratulating all the passing-out personnel, the Lieutenant Governor noted that policing in Ladakh involves unique challenges arising from its vast geographical spread, high-altitude locations, difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions and dispersed settlements.

“Ladakh Police performs its duty in some of the most challenging conditions in the country, and the courage, discipline and dedication of its personnel deserve our highest appreciation. Today’s induction of 114 newly recruited SPOs, along with the promotion and professional advancement of 99 serving personnel, will further strengthen the Police force across Ladakh. Our initiatives for police housing and the strengthening of Fire & Rescue Services are aimed at ensuring that our personnel are supported with better facilities, modern systems and the resources they need to serve the people effectively,” said L-G Saxena.

L-G Saxena emphasised that professional advancement in the Police is not merely about assuming a higher rank but also about accepting greater responsibility, leadership and accountability. He highlighted the importance of legal knowledge, investigation skills, technology, discipline, integrity and professional conduct in modern policing.

During the programme, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated four building blocks comprising 24 two-BHK family quarters for eligible personnel from the rank of Follower to Head Constable. Constructed at a cost of ₹11.04 crore, the quarters have been designed specifically keeping Ladakh’s harsh climatic conditions in view.

The Lieutenant Governor also launched the official Emblem, Flag, Logo and Shoulder, Cap and Belt Badges of the Ladakh Fire & Rescue Service. He also e-inaugurated the official website of the Ladakh Fire & Rescue Service, which has been developed as a single digital platform for citizens and other stakeholders. The website will provide access to Fire NOC services, fire safety guidelines, advisories, forms, rules and regulations, emergency contact details, fire station information and public awareness material, thereby promoting transparency, accessibility and citizen convenience.

A Comprehensive Fire Safety Handbook for Ladakh was also launched on the occasion. The handbook covers fire prevention, safety measures, emergency response, evacuation procedures, rescue operations and public awareness, and is intended as a practical reference for citizens, commercial establishments, institutions, offices and other stakeholders.

The Lieutenant Governor expressed confidence that the induction of new personnel, professional advancement of serving Police personnel and the initiatives launched for Police welfare and Fire & Rescue Services would make Ladakh’s security and emergency response systems more modern, responsive, professional and people-centric.

He paid tribute to the officers and personnel of Ladakh Police and Ladakh Fire & Rescue Service for their dedicated service and said that their courage, professionalism and commitment constitute a vital strength of Ladakh’s security and emergency response system.

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Upon his arrival at the Civil Helipad, Zanskar, the Chief Secretary was received by SP Zanskar Rigzin Sangdup, SDM Zanskar Jasif Amin, Councillor and State General Secretary, BJP, Stanzin Lakpa, along with other senior officers.

The Chief Secretary began his visit with a visit to Kanika Stupa and Sani Monastery, where he interacted with monks, village representatives, community leaders and members of the public. During the interaction, various issues concerning the monastery and surrounding villages were brought to his notice.

The delegations, led by the Head of the Monastery and the Nambardar, raised issues including renovation of Sani Palace in the traditional architectural style, construction of Naropa Photang, creation of a separate Panchayat Halqa, provision of an ATM facility at Sani, and other developmental concerns.

Later, the Chief Secretary visited Dzongkul Monastery and interacted with monks and delegations from adjoining villages. The issues raised included construction of a protective compound wall, improvement of network connectivity and provision of basic public convenience facilities. The Nambardar of Atting village also highlighted the need for operationalisation of the BSNL 4G tower and expeditious completion of the Dzongkhul Hydro Projects being executed under KREDA.

Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra gave a patient hearing to the delegations and assured them that the issues and genuine demands raised during the interactions would be examined thoroughly for appropriate action.

As part of the visit, the Chief Secretary also visited the Omasila Yak Cheese Production Centre and reviewed the functioning of the Zanskar Milk & Dairy Cooperative Society.

The Chief Secretary was accompanied by SP Zanskar Rigzin Sangdup, SDM Zanskar Jasif Amin, Councillor and State General Secretary, BJP, Stanzin Lakpa, President ZBA, President Women Association, District President BJP Zanskar, and other sub-divisional and sectoral officers.

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