Kargil, Nov 20: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, today said that the Central Government is according highest priority to the rapid development of border regions and the preservation of Ladakh’s distinctive cultural heritage. He was speaking after inaugurating the newly built Darchik Cultural Centre—an initiative of the Indian Army under Operation Sadbhavana.
Senior Army officers, district officials and community representatives attended the ceremony, including Maj Gen Dinesh Kumar Singh, SM, VSM; Maj Gen K. Mahesh, SM, VSM; Brig Satyakam Dabas, VSM; Brig Dev Panwar; Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar; SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav and other Army officials.
Calling the Darchik Cultural Centre “a symbol of India’s commitment to the Dard Aryan community,” the LG said the project aligns with the Centre’s larger vision of empowering border populations, strengthening local identity, and creating new livelihood opportunities. He said the guidance of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has significantly boosted the morale and operational readiness of India’s armed forces, enabling a secure environment for development across Ladakh’s frontier belts.
The LG praised the Indian Army for its dual role in maintaining security and supporting community welfare. He cited projects like the Indus View Point in Batalik, Captain Manoj Pandey (PVC) Stadium in Garkone, and the Kalubar War Memorial as examples of long-term Army initiatives benefitting the Aryan Valley.
Shri Kavinder Gupta outlined his administration’s focus on improving infrastructure, promoting tourism and enabling skilled manpower to drive sustainable growth. He said the Aryan Valley, with its ancient ethnic lineage and unique cultural expressions, holds immense global significance and deserves focused preservation efforts.
The event also saw the virtual launch of Community Radio Stations at Partapur and Tyakshi, aimed at enhancing communication and public awareness in remote areas of Nubra. A special highlight was the release of the Param Vir Chakra Comic Series in the local Brokskat/Dardiarya language, translated by Nawang Sharap, to inspire youth with stories of India’s bravest soldiers.
The LG felicitated local contributors including Nawang, Suhail, Nawang Rigzin and Tundup Wangyal for their efforts in cultural preservation and community development. He urged the community to utilise the Darchik Cultural Centre as a living space for cultural revival, research and youth engagement.
The ceremony concluded with appreciation for the collective efforts of the Army, administration and local stakeholders in safeguarding the cultural identity of the Aryan Valley while promoting peace and progress.
