Leh, April 23: With Ladakh gearing up for the Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of Tathagata Buddha, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra on Thursday conducted a comprehensive inspection of the route from the Technical Airport, Leh, to Jivetsal, Choglamsar, while also leading high-level coordination efforts to fine-tune arrangements for the mega spiritual event.
During the inspection, Kundra reviewed preparations at the Technical Airport and interacted with Security Officer Krishan Kumar of 21 Wing Air Force Station, Leh, focusing on logistics and inter-agency coordination to ensure smooth handling of the relics’ arrival and movement.
He later inspected the entire route up to Jivetsal, directing departments to expedite works related to beautification, sanitation, traffic regulation and overall infrastructure readiness.
At Jivetsal, the Chief Secretary assessed on-ground preparations and held discussions with representatives of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), stressing seamless coordination among stakeholders for the successful आयोजन of the sacred exposition.
Accompanied by senior officials including the Deputy Commissioner Leh, SSP Leh, Chief Engineer R&B and Executive Officer MCL, Kundra emphasized maintaining high standards of cleanliness, security and civic management, given the expected influx of pilgrims and visitors.
A day earlier, Kundra chaired the fourth UT-Level Coordination Committee meeting at the Hill Council Conference Hall to finalize key aspects of the exposition themed “Peace Beyond Borders – Ladakh 2026.”
The meeting reviewed critical arrangements, including the secure escort of the Holy Relics from Delhi to Leh, ceremonial reception at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, and the grand procession to Jivetsal.
Administrative Secretary Tourism & Culture Sanjeet Rodrigues presented a detailed roadmap covering timelines, venues, rituals, rehearsals, and infrastructure preparedness.
The committee discussed ceremonial protocols such as reception by monks and dignitaries, red carpet welcome, designated transport for relics, and public participation along the procession route. City-wide beautification, including whitewashing of Mani walls and gate decorations, is slated for completion by April 27.
Key dates were also firmed up, with Buddha Purnima celebrations on May 1, a full-dress rehearsal on April 28, and the closing ceremony at the Dharma Centre.
The committee reviewed preparations for high-profile visits, including those of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister on May 2 and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on May 4.
Highlighting the spiritual importance of the event, Kundra directed authorities to ensure maximum public participation and adequate transport facilities, especially for people from remote areas.
He also reviewed volunteer deployment, issuance of identity cards, access control mechanisms, and guidelines to restrict mobile phone usage during prayer sessions to preserve the sanctity of the occasion.
Senior officials from civil and police administration, DIG Leh-Kargil Range, IGP ITBP, representatives of Buddhist associations, monasteries, CIBS, Sowa-Rigpa institutions, and other stakeholders attended the meeting, reflecting a coordinated push to host one of Ladakh’s most significant spiritual gatherings.
