Leh: In a crucial follow-up meeting held at the DC Office, Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk (IAS), emphasized the urgent need to address the financial and promotional challenges confronting the tourism industry in Leh.
The meeting aimed to strategize the timely allocation of ₹1 crore for tourism promotion, as previously committed by Hon’ble CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the tourism and hospitality sectors, to discuss the sharp decline in tourist arrivals this year compared to previous years. All participants stressed the need for swift and strategic interventions to prevent further economic slowdown in the region, where tourism remains the backbone of the local economy.
Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, President of the All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), presented a proposal focused on ITB Berlin 2026, an international travel trade fair scheduled for March next year. She proposed earmarking ₹75 lakhs from the allocated fund for Ladakh’s participation in the event and urged for timely release of funds to secure a prime advertising space. The remaining ₹25 lakhs, she suggested, should be used for digital and print promotion of Ladakh.
PT Kunzang, President of the All Ladakh Tourism Trade Alliance (ALTTA), expressed serious concerns about the consistent decline in tourism funds since the formation of UT Ladakh. He reiterated that reviving tourism is essential to sustaining Ladakh’s economy.
DC Leh acknowledged the concerns and assured stakeholders that a separate meeting with the Hon’ble CEC will be convened shortly to discuss fund allocation and implementation strategies. He also highlighted the importance of coordination between the administration and tourism bodies for effective execution.
The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Tsewang Gyalson, AD Tourism Padma Angmo, Assistant Tourism Officer Leh, and Presidents and representatives of ALHGHA, ALTOA, and ALTTA.
