Kargil, October 31, 2025: The District Administration of Kargil celebrated the Union Territory Foundation Day with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour today at Syed Mehdi Auditorium Hall, Kargil. The event began with the National Anthem, followed by a warm welcome to the guests.
The event was graced by Executive Councillor, LAHDC-Kargil, Er. Punchok Tashi, as the Chief Guest, and Senior Superintendent of Police, Kargil, Shree Ram Ragavan (IPS), as the Guest of Honour. Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho, along with other dignitaries and officers, also attended the event.
The cultural programme commenced with a skit by the students of Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School, GM Pore, based on the theme of Drug Abuse. The performance portrayed unemployment leading to substance abuse and ending with a powerful message — “Say No to Drugs.”
Next, a Balti solo song was presented by Sadiq Ali Ashoor blending meaningful folk and patriotic emotions that touched the hearts of the audience and elevated the spirit of the event.
Students from Government Polytechnic College, Kargil, presented a touching drama titled “Khoya Hua Sapna.” The play carried the strong message “One Call Saves a Life” to raise awareness about helping others in times of crisis. The concluding line, “Har Andhere Ke Baad Savera Zarur Hota Hai,” left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Adding color and rhythm to the celebration, the Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages (LAACL) presented a folk-dance performance showcasing the vibrant cultural diversity of Kargil featuring Purgi, Shina, Balti, Dardi and Zanskari traditions that symbolized unity in diversity.
In his address, the Chief Guest, Er. Punchok Tashi, recalled the long struggle for the UT status of Ladakh and the efforts of the Ladakhi leaders who worked tirelessly toward this goal. He said that 2019 marked a historic milestone, which we now celebrate as a day of unity and progress. Highlighting the developments achieved after UT formation, he noted that ample funds are now available for infrastructure — roads, community halls, and other essential projects ensuring that no village remains disconnected.
He expressed optimism about making Ladakh a carbon-neutral region and urged everyone to work sincerely, maintain unity and serve with dedication. He reminded that “We are accountable to ourselves and to our people,” encouraging officers and citizens alike to contribute to the collective growth of the nation.
In his address, ADC Imteeaz Kacho highlighted the Union Territory’s progress under various Government schemes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, higher education initiatives and food safety programmes. He also highlighted achievements and progress of the District in various sectors. He expressed gratitude to all guests, officers and students, commending their active participation and contribution to the success of the event. He also emphasized that unity and collective effort are the true strengths of Ladakh.
The programme concluded with a ramp show by students of School Education Department, in connection with Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, displaying placards promoting unity and anti-drug awareness, spreading the message that unity is the foundation of a strong and progressive society.
Assistant Director, Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Samina Khatoon, presented the vote of thanks on behalf of the District Administration.
