Author: The Dispatch Staff

LEH: A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports, headed by Digvijay Singh, Member of Rajya Sabha, began a two-day visit to Leh on Wednesday to review and understand the region’s educational landscape. The day started with a comprehensive presentation titled “Initiatives to Support School Education in Ladakh.” It was delivered by A Srija, Economics Advisor, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, and Bhanu Praba, Administrative Secretary, School Education Department, Ladakh. The session highlighted recent progress, ongoing challenges, and future strategies for improving education in the Union Territory. The delegation received a warm traditional…

Leh: In a moment of significance for the Union Territory of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta was sworn in as the 3rd Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh in a ceremonial oath-taking event held in Leh. Dressed in traditional Ladakhi attire, the oath was administered by Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh. Leaders from across the region — spanning Leh and Kargil — came together to welcome the new LG with optimism and firm expectations for Ladakh’s democratic and inclusive future. “A Grounded Leader Who Knows Ladakh Deeply” – CEC Leh, Tashi Gyalson https://youtu.be/_inLoxkqf48?si=lpklDCSRC9bB4HmK Adv. Tashi…

Leh: In a moment steeped in symbolism and hope, Kavinder Gupta was officially sworn in today as the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of the Union Territory of Ladakh, marking the beginning of a new political chapter for the region. Wearing the traditional Ladakhi attire, Gupta stood with humility and pride as he took the oath of office, administered by Justice Tashi Rabstan Pali in a solemn ceremony held in Leh. The occasion was attended by senior officials, political leaders, and members of civil society from across the UT. https://youtu.be/ekz4fZSgKpE?si=YdJnOXl6Hexhohls “I’m Here to Serve, Not to Rule” In his first message…

LEH: In a welcome move for government employees, the Union Territory administration of Ladakh has announced a 6% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for those drawing salaries under the 6th Central Pay Commission (CPC). The DA has been increased from 246% to 252% of the basic pay, bringing relief to a section of employees amid rising living costs. The decision, announced by the Finance Department of Ladakh, is based on the Office Memorandum issued by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, Government of India on April 2, 2025. The revised rates will be implemented retrospectively from January 1, 2025.…

Leh: In a remarkable testament to growing urban development and sanitation efforts, Kargil town has been adjudged one of India’s “Promising Swachh Shehars” in the prestigious Swachh Survekshan 2024, conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. Announced during a grand award ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the recognition marks a significant achievement for the Union Territory of Ladakh, placing Kargil alongside Jammu as two of the cleanest emerging cities in their respective regions. The survey, conducted over April and May 2025, evaluated urban bodies on multiple parameters of cleanliness, solid waste management, citizen engagement,…

Leh: Indian Army has successfully tested the Akash Prime surface-to-air missile system in Ladakh, marking a major achievement for India’s indigenous air‑defence capabilities. Conducted at an altitude exceeding 15,000 feet, the trials involved the Army’s Air Defence Corps collaborating closely with senior scientists from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The high‑altitude test took place in eastern Ladakh’s thin atmosphere, where the missile scored two direct hits on fast‑moving aerial targets. “India has achieved a significant milestone by successfully destroying 2 Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh Sector on 16th July by Akash Prime, which…

Leh: A delegation from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth & Sports, led by Rajya Sabha MP Digvijaya Singh, undertook a significant visit to various prominent educational institutions in Leh to assess the region’s educational development and challenges. The Committee began its visit at the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), where members interacted with faculty and students, learning about the institute’s innovative approach to contextual education, sustainability, and real-life learning in high-altitude conditions. Following this, the delegation visited the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL) campus, a grassroots initiative that has pioneered alternative education…

Leh: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Leh marked the World Day of International Justice with a solemn programme held at the District Court Complex, Leh. The event was graced by Manoj Parihar, Principal District & Sessions Judge Leh and Chairman of DLSA, along with Phuntsok Angmo, Secretary DLSA Leh. Also present were Senior Advocate Thinless Angmo, Deputy Chief LADC Adv. Nema Stanzin, members of the Bar, panel lawyers, LADCs, court staff, DLSA team, and Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs). The programme began with an address by Adv. Irshad Ullah, who highlighted the global significance of the day, emphasizing its role…

Leh: A revenue review meeting was held at the Tehsil office, Khaltse, under the chairmanship of SDM/Tehsildar Khaltse, Mohd Sharif, on July 16 2025. The meeting focused on assessing the progress of digitalization and ongoing revenue-related work in the sub-division. During the meeting, a detailed discussion was held regarding the hassle-free and systematic issuance of domicile certificates in the Sub Division. The SDM/Tehsildar directed all concerned Naib Tehsildars, Girdawars (GQs), Patwaris, and officials to ensure the issuance of domicile certificates as per the prescribed norms. The meeting was attended by Naib Tehsildars Asgar Ali, Abdul Samad, Phuntsog Namgial and Mohd…

Leh, July 17: In a significant step toward enhancing sports facilities in Ladakh, key proposals for establishing the High Altitude National Centre for Excellence (HANCE) and the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) have been approved. The decision was made during a follow-up meeting chaired by LAHDC Leh Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson in his office chamber. The meeting was attended by Manjushree Dayanand, Executive Director of SAI RC Chandigarh; Dr. Stanzin Thakchos, Officer on Special Duty to the Sports Secretary; and Ghulam Mustafa, Incharge of SAI STC Kargil. During the meeting, officials reviewed the progress on the HANCE…

Leh: In a moment marked by celebration, Ladakh today welcomed its newly appointed Lieutenant Governor, Kavinder Gupta, with a grand reception at the Leh Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and enthusiasm as BJP leaders, supporters, and well-wishers gathered to receive him, setting the tone for a new chapter in Ladakh’s governance. The reception was led by Tashi Gyaltson Khachu, BJP State President of UT Ladakh, and attended by senior BJP leaders, executive members, district presidents, and members of the BJP Yuva Morcha and Mahila Morcha. Traditional khataks were offered in a show of respect and…

Kargil: Prominent Ladakhi political activist and former parliamentary candidate Sajjad Kargili has expressed disappointment over the recent letter sent by senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the issues of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. Respected Shri @RahulGandhi ji and @kharge ji we are disappointed with your recent letter to Hon’ble @PMOIndia. You had assured the people of #Ladakh during your visit to Leh & #Kargil in August 2023 that you would raise all four core demands of Ladakh. However, your letter only… pic.twitter.com/BfYvzAT2XN — 𝐒𝐚𝐣𝐣𝐚𝐝 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐢 | سجاد کرگلی (@SajjadKargili_) July 17,…

Leh: In a much-awaited decision, the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of LAHDC, Leh, has officially announced the commencement of the Summer Vacation for all Government and Private Schools as well as Anganwadi Kendras in the district. According to Order No. 222/Adm of 2025, issued on July 17, the summer break will begin from July 21 and will continue till August 4, marking a 15-day holiday period. The announcement comes in reference to a letter issued by the Chief Education Officer, Leh (No: Misc-1/9403) and with the formal approval of the Hon’ble Deputy Chairman, LAHDC Leh (Education). The decision…

Leh: A grand and heartfelt welcome was accorded to the newly appointed Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh,  Kavinder Gupta, upon his arrival at Leh Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport today. The reception, led by  Tashi Gyaltson Khachu, BJP State President of UT Ladakh, marked a significant moment in the political landscape of the Union Territory. The atmosphere at the airport was filled with enthusiasm and celebration as BJP State Executive Members, Senior Party Officials, District Presidents, and members of BJP Yuva Morcha and Mahila Morcha gathered to receive the Hon’ble LG. Traditional khataks were offered, symbolizing respect and reverence, and warm…

Leh:  The Indian Army on Wednesday said it has conducted an integrated firing exercise in Ladakh aimed at enhancing jointness and validation of tactics and techniques while incorporating new-generation equipment and “battlefield equalisers”. The exercise was done by the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps. “In pursuance of the #IndianArmy’s Decade of Transformation, Fire and Fury Corps conducted an Integrated Firing Exercise in Ladakh aimed at enhancing jointness and validation of Tactics, Techniques and Procedures incorporating New Generation Equipments & Battlefield Equalisers,” the Corps said in a post on X. It also shared some photographs and a video clip of the…

Kolkata:  Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) has fabricated and launched a 280-feet multi-span double-lane modular bridge on Phobrang-Marsimik-La Hot Spring road in Ladakh, an official said on Thursday. The bridge, which has been handed over to Project Himank of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), was launched in just 20 days in one of the most remote and difficult terrains of the country, the GRSE official said. It will facilitate “seamless connectivity for troop and equipment deployment for the Indian Army,” he said in a statement. Stating that the double-lane steel bridge developed by GRSE stands as…

Leh: In a candid message ahead of assuming office, Ladakh’s newly appointed Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has assured the people that his tenure will be defined by accessibility, accountability, and action. His appointment as LG comes at a crucial time when Ladakh is witnessing evolving political aspirations and governance challenges. Addressing concerns over statehood and connectivity, Gupta acknowledged the sensitivities involved. “I am aware of the internal and external dimensions of Ladakh’s situation. There have been voices of discrimination in the past. As LG, my role is to listen, learn, and act in the best interests of all communities—be it…

Kargil: Continuing his public outreach tour across Kargil, Member of Parliament Haji Hanifa Jan visited several key villages in the Sankoo region on the fourth day of his engagement, reaffirming his commitment to inclusive and grassroots-driven development. He was accompanied by Area Councillor Syed Ahmed Rizvi, Councillor Umba Ghulam Haider, NC Vice President Syed Abass, and senior officials from the local administration. The day began with a visit to the Astana of Aga Haider Razvi at Kusar, where the MP, along with Councillor Rizvi, offered *Fatiha* in remembrance of the revered spiritual leader. The MP then toured villages including Nangma…

Mangyu: A new cultural chapter unfolded in Ladakh as the first-ever Sham Festival kicked off with colour, tradition, and healing energy in the historic village of Mangyu. Inaugurated by CEC Tashi Gyalson, the grand opening of Sham Festival 2025 marked a proud moment for the region — celebrating heritage, holistic wellness, and community pride. The CEC was joined by Dy Chairman LAHDC Leh Tsering Angchuk, Khaltsi Councillor Lobzang Sherab, Lamayuru Councillor Dr. Morup Dorjey, Phyang Councillor Tundup Nurbu, Assistant Director Tourism Padma Angmo, Biker’s Union President Tashi Yontan, and several other dignitaries and community leaders. The festivities began with a…

Leh: In a significant event aimed at fostering dialogue and policy insights on education and youth development, the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports commenced its study visit to Ladakh today. The high-level delegation is being hosted at Hotel Dragon, Leh. The Committee, led by senior parliamentarian and Member of Rajya Sabha, Digvijay Singh, arrived in Leh along with 16 fellow members of Parliament. On arrival, the delegation was received with traditional warmth and hospitality by Dr. Pawan Kotwal (IAS), Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh. As part of the visit, a detailed presentation on ‘Initiatives…