‘Dual-Use Infra vital for Sustainable Border Settlements’
Yash Khajuria
Leh, Aug 30: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta today called for a stronger military-civil partnership to secure the Union Territory’s future as the Five-Day Military-Civil Fusion Capsule 2025 concluded at Karu Military Station under the aegis of the Fire and Fury Corps.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor said Ladakh’s growth must be built on inclusive progress that strengthens infrastructure, governance and resilience in the face of environmental and geopolitical challenges. His remarks framed the spirit of the summit, which since August 26 had drawn military commanders, civil administrators and academics together to shape a shared vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat through integrated development of the frontier region.
Among the central themes was the challenge of reverse migration in Eastern Ladakh and the establishment of sustainable border villages. Chief Secretary Dr Pawan Kotwal presented a detailed analysis of the sociocultural and logistical hurdles of resettling high-altitude populations. He urged policies that balance security requirements with livelihood opportunities, climate-sensitive planning and long-term settlement viability. He also outlined initiatives for dual-use infrastructure designed to serve both civilian and military purposes.
Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding of the Fire and Fury Corps, emphasised that Ladakh’s development must be anchored in a comprehensive approach blending defence preparedness with governance, technological innovation and social advancement. He said collaboration across sectors is essential to ensure Ladakh’s long-term stability and prosperity.
The General Officer Commanding of the Trishul Division highlighted the Army’s contribution to nation-building under Operation Sadbhavna. He pointed to efforts in education, healthcare, skill development and infrastructure that have directly improved the quality of life in remote communities while reinforcing national security.
An open house session invited candid exchanges among participants and reinforced the value of military-civil collaboration in overcoming Ladakh’s developmental challenges.
The capsule, held from August 26 to 30, featured discussions on education, health, rural development, revenue, tourism, public administration and the Army’s role in community empowerment. The Fire and Fury Corps honoured speakers and panelists at the closing ceremony, reaffirming a commitment to sustained partnership between the Army, civil administration and academia.
The Military-Civil Fusion Capsule 2025 concluded with a clear message that Ladakh’s future lies in unity of purpose where security, sustainable growth and community resilience move forward together.
