Leh, May 28 : Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra held interaction with Indian Forest Service probationers of the 2025–2027 batch from the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy during their study visit to Ladakh, urging the young officers to uphold integrity, innovation and public service while addressing emerging environmental challenges.
The interaction formed part of the field exposure programme of the IFS probationers visiting Ladakh to gain insights into governance, ecological management and conservation challenges in high-altitude regions.
The session commenced with an introduction of the probationers, who shared details regarding their educational backgrounds, allotted cadres and professional experiences. Faculty members accompanying the delegation also participated in the interaction.
- Rajesh introduced the visiting probationers and faculty members to the Chief Secretary and briefed him on the objectives of the study visit.
Welcoming the probationers to Ladakh, Ashish Kundra shared his experiences from public administration and encouraged the officers to remain committed to ethical governance and meaningful public service.
He underlined the importance of intellectual honesty, optimism, innovation and the ability to take calculated risks in administrative responsibilities. He advised the probationers to remain rooted in professional values while adapting to changing governance and environmental realities.
During the interaction, the Chief Secretary spoke extensively about the evolving socio-economic and ecological landscape of the country, highlighting the growing relevance of climate change mitigation, wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism and environmental education.
He observed that forest and wildlife officers would play a crucial role in balancing ecological protection with sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities, particularly in environmentally sensitive regions.
Referring to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and unique geographical conditions, Ashish Kundra encouraged the probationers to explore community-oriented conservation approaches capable of preserving biodiversity while creating economic opportunities for residents.
He also stressed the importance of developing field expertise and practical understanding in areas such as climate resilience, water conservation, sustainable development and forest protection.
The interaction concluded with a vote of thanks by one of the probationers on behalf of IGNFA, expressing appreciation for the guidance and interaction with the Ladakh Administration.
The visiting probationers, representing different states and cadres from across the country, also appreciated the opportunity to gain first-hand understanding of governance systems and environmental challenges in Ladakh.
