Leh, May 9: Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, on Saturday chaired a meeting with tourism stakeholders to discuss key challenges and policy issues concerning the tourism sector in the region, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism development.
The meeting focused on issues related to tourism regulation, rationalisation measures, infrastructure augmentation and improvement of tourism services in Ladakh. Detailed deliberations were also held on matters concerning the EFFRO portal, registration procedures, centralisation of Form-C, the Ladakh Tourism Development Society and other issues affecting tourism stakeholders.
The interaction provided a platform for representatives from the tourism sector and various associations to share their concerns, suggestions and recommendations aimed at strengthening Ladakh’s tourism ecosystem while preserving the region’s fragile environment and unique cultural heritage.
Addressing the participants, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra stressed the need for a robust policy framework and a long-term vision for tourism development in Ladakh. He underlined the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism practices and ensure balanced growth in the sector.
Kundra also emphasised that tourism development in Ladakh must be aligned with environmental conservation and cultural preservation to maintain the region’s distinct identity while enhancing visitor experience and economic opportunities for local communities.
The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretary Tourism Sanjit Rodrigues, Additional Secretary Mandeep Mittal, Director Tourism, Assistant Directors Tourism of Leh and Kargil, along with representatives of various tourism stakeholders and associations.
