Leh: In his first high-level interaction with the administration since assuming office, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta chaired an introductory meeting with Secretaries and Heads of Departments (HoDs) of the Union Territory of Ladakh.
During the meeting, the Lt. Governor shared his commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by the Prime Minister and the President of India.
He emphasized that collective effort, seamless coordination, and a shared vision among all departments will be crucial in accelerating Ladakh’s development journey.
Gupta urged all Administrative Secretaries and HoDs to prepare a comprehensive 100-day action plan focused on impactful outcomes and tangible improvements in governance, infrastructure, and public service delivery.
He stressed that the plan should reflect the aspirations of the people and contribute meaningfully to Ladakh’s long-term growth.
Highlighting the strategic and cultural significance of the region, the Lt. Governor reiterated the need for proactive governance, efficient implementation of centrally sponsored schemes, and people-centric policies that strengthen trust and transparency in the administration.
He reiterated his unwavering commitment to the holistic development of UT Ladakh, identifying tourism and renewable energy as pivotal growth sectors. Reflecting on his tenure as the Mayor of Jammu, HLG underscored the importance of empowering administrative officers as enduring pillars of governance, regardless of the transience of political leadership.
He also highlighted the importance of making a hundred-day action plan for the Administrative Secretaries and HoDs for the smooth and fast-track development of UT Ladakh.
At the outset, Chief Secretary, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, IAS, presented a comprehensive briefing to HLG, outlining the current status of key developmental initiatives in UT Ladakh. This included updates on recruitment across the district cadre, UT cadre, and gazetted posts, as well as the implementation of the domicile law and new reservation policies aimed at facilitating a smooth recruitment process for gazetted-level positions.
Dr. Kotwal further highlighted budgetary allocations over the past four years of approximately ₹6,000 crore, noting a reduction in the budget allocation over the previous two fiscal cycles. He expressed optimism that budgetary allocations may be reinstated in October by the Ministry of Finance.
The proposal for the creation of five new districts, as announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, was also discussed. The Chief Secretary emphasised that operationalising these new administrative units would necessitate the recruitment of over 5,000 personnel.
Additional briefings included updates on the rationalisation of boundaries of wildlife sanctuaries in Nubra and Changthang, and progress on the Renewable Power Projects in Ladakh. Secretary (Power), Vikram Singh Malik, IAS, elaborated on the key components of the renewable energy initiative, including details of the ongoing solar power project at Pang.
The Secretary of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development, Shashanka Ala, IAS, provided insights into the ongoing electoral roll revision process ahead of the upcoming Panchayat elections, scheduled to be conducted by the UT Election Commission. Director General of Police, Dr. S.D. Jamwal, IPS, briefed HLG on the prevailing law and order situation in Ladakh and the current status of police infrastructure across the region.
Later in the day, a delegation comprising senior members and former block presidents of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) called on the Lt Governor.
The delegation raised several pressing concerns, most notably seeking the HLG’s intervention in the official declaration of five newly proposed districts in Ladakh.
They also apprised HLG of tourism and hydro power potential in Ladakh and requested the HLG to focus on development in these areas.
Gupta gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured them that the matter would be looked into with due seriousness, promising to explore viable administrative solutions.
The meeting marks a strong start to Gupta’s tenure as Lt Governor, indicating a proactive approach in both administrative planning and public engagement.
Meanwhile, Principal district and sessions Judge, Kargil, Spalzes Angmo, paid a courtesy visit to the Lt Governor at secretariat Leh.
