Leh, Apr 03: Ashish Kundra, Chief Secretary of Ladakh, on Thursday directed researchers at University of Ladakh to submit a detailed scientific report on water quality in Leh and pressed for the early launch of the ISRO-supported LAMA portal, underlining their relevance for administrative planning and resource management in the Union Territory.
During a visit to the Taruthang campus, Kundra said robust data on water resources and timely access to geo-spatial inputs would strengthen decision-making at the district level, particularly in a region facing ecological sensitivity and developmental pressures.
Accompanied by Bhanu Prabha, Secretary, Higher Education, the Chief Secretary reviewed academic and research activities across departments and interacted with faculty and students. He was received by Vice Chancellor Saket Kushwaha.
At the Centralized Interdisciplinary Science Instrumentation Centre (CISIC), Kundra engaged with researchers working on environmental and geological studies. He asked the faculty to compile findings on water analysis conducted in Leh and also examine the availability of rare earth minerals in Ladakh, indicating the administration’s interest in scientific inputs for long-term planning.
A detailed briefing was presented on the ISRO LAMA project, which integrates geo-spatial datasets on agriculture, glacier dynamics, snow cover and urban expansion. Kundra emphasised that early operationalisation of the LAMA portal would allow district administrations to use real-time data for planning interventions and monitoring development trends.
The visit also covered academic demonstrations and institutional facilities. At the Department of Forensic Science, postgraduate students recreated a mock crime scene investigation, where the Chief Secretary reviewed techniques of evidence collection and the use of a mobile forensic van.
At the MeitY laboratory, faculty and students showcased prototypes developed in response to practical needs. Kundra noted the growing orientation towards application-based learning and innovation within the university.
Inspecting the Central Library, he called for updating records and improving access to digital resources to support research and academic work.
During classroom interactions, Kundra sought feedback from students on academic conditions and challenges, encouraging them to make fuller use of institutional resources.
An interaction with faculty from the Taru and Stakna campuses included a presentation by Registrar Nawang Tundup on the university’s academic and research profile. Discussions focused on improving placement opportunities, refining internship frameworks and aligning curriculum with emerging requirements.
Kundra also reviewed the progress of ongoing infrastructure projects and directed engineers from the Central Public Works Department to submit detailed status reports for further follow-up.
Senior academic officials, including deans and faculty members from various schools, were present during the visit.
