Leh: The Centre’s push for compliance reduction and ease of doing business reached Ladakh as Special Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat, KK Pathak, chaired a high-level consultation meeting in Leh.
Joined by Ladakh Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, the session focused on deregulation and industry feedback to promote entrepreneurship in the Union Territory.
The meeting began with an overview of Ladakh’s industrial landscape by Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Sanjeev Khirwar, who outlined the region’s key sectors — tourism, food processing, pashmina, and small-scale manufacturing.
He noted that efforts to streamline regulations have been ongoing since 2014, but challenges remain.
Entrepreneurs and stakeholders raised pressing issues from their sectors. Tourism representatives pointed to a recent dip in visitors due to regional instability.
Kargil manufacturers sought industrial land and better logistics, while food processors demanded help with customs and land for export units. The pashmina sector advocated for GI tagging and testing labs within Ladakh.
Responding to the concerns, the Chief Secretary emphasized the region’s limited industrial season and reiterated the administration’s support for small, sustainable industrial units adapted to Ladakh’s unique climate. He highlighted the need to work intensively during the few viable months available each year.
KK Pathak praised Ladakh’s progress and acknowledged its distinctive development model. “The issues raised today are crucial. The administration and the Centre are committed to proactive solutions,” he said, drawing on his previous visits to the region.
In a second session, the team discussed suggestions submitted by Ladakh for deregulation priorities. Detailed deliberations were held on fire safety NOCs, building byelaws, and labour laws, with a view to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
The review was attended by top officials from the Cabinet Secretariat, Planning, Power, Tourism, Housing, Industries, MSME, and other key departments of UT Ladakh.
