Kargil, Feb 24: “Development planning must be guided by real-time feedback from the people and grounded in field realities,” said Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra during an extensive outreach visit to Kargil district on Tuesday, as he engaged directly with residents across Rangdum, Sankoo and Trespone.
Reaffirming the Union Territory Administration’s resolve to take governance to the grassroots, Kundra held Public Darbars and met several delegations comprising local residents, elected representatives and members of civil society. The interactions revolved around pressing civic concerns and developmental aspirations, with senior officers directed to ensure structured follow-up.
At Sankoo Sub-Division, the Chief Secretary underscored that administrative planning must emerge from consistent field engagement rather than desk-based assessments. He instructed officers to undertake regular site visits and comprehensive surveys so that issues relating to road connectivity, healthcare services, educational infrastructure, electricity supply and tourism development are addressed in a coordinated and time-bound manner.
Responding to demands raised by residents, Kundra assured that proposals for upgradation of health facilities, improvement of road networks, strengthening of schools and colleges, and promotion of tourism potential would be examined on priority. He emphasised that accessibility and responsiveness must define the functioning of the Administration.
Highlighting the importance of investing in the younger generation, the Chief Secretary called for collective responsibility in strengthening academic standards and expanding avenues for skill development. He urged parents, educators and community leaders to actively contribute to creating a supportive ecosystem for students.
The visit also included a review of ongoing infrastructure works with officials of the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited. Kundra directed that projects be expedited and monitored closely to minimise inconvenience to the public and ensure adherence to timelines.
At the Kargil campus of the University of Ladakh, the Chief Secretary interacted with faculty members and students, assuring sustained institutional backing for the expansion and strengthening of higher education facilities in the region.
The district tour underscored the Administration’s emphasis on participatory governance, direct citizen engagement and transparent functioning. By reaching out to communities in remote areas, the Chief Secretary sought to reinforce accountability and ensure that developmental initiatives are aligned with the aspirations of the people across Ladakh.
