Citizen participation-govt initiatives key to equitable devp
Leh, Sept 06: The union territory Administration has pledged to take development to even the most remote villages of Ladakh, with a clear focus on empowering rural communities.
By strengthening schools, improving healthcare facilities, and addressing the day-to-day challenges of people in far-flung areas, the UT Administration aims to ensure that growth is not limited to towns but reaches every corner of the Union Territory.
This was stated by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, Saturday while addressing a public meeting at the Dak Bungalow, Hemya.
In the meeting, people of nine villages, namely Hemya, Tarchit, Tiri, Liktsey, Tukla, Skidmang, Kairy, Chumathang and Kyungyam took part and highlighted their issues.
In the public durbar, DC Leh, Romil Singh Donk; SSP Leh, Shruti Arora; Tehsildar Nyoma, Councillor Kyungyam, Thinles Nurboo; Councillor Nyoma, Ishey Spalzang and district officials were present.
While addressing the public gathering, the Lt Governor underlined the importance of making citizens active stakeholders in grassroots development. “When people are aware of their rights and voice their concerns, it ensures accountability, strengthens democracy, and enables the administration to design development plans that reflect local aspirations,” he observed.
Commending the people of Ladakh, particularly those in far-flung areas, for raising their concerns with courage and awareness, the Lt Governor said that such participation is vital for building a just society and responsive governance.
He highlighted education, healthcare, and tourism as the three key pillars for shaping Ladakh’s future. “Education provides the skills and innovation needed for economic growth, healthcare ensures a healthy and productive society, and tourism generates livelihoods while promoting Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage,” he stated.
The Lt Governor also emphasised the need to bridge the gap in educational access, pointing out that a 100 km distance to an institute often becomes a barrier, especially for students from rural and resource-poor families.
“The administration is working to reduce these hurdles so that students, particularly girls, are not held back due to long travel, safety concerns, or financial constraints,” he assured.
Stressing that inclusive growth must reach every village, the Lt Governor said citizen participation, combined with government initiatives in key sectors, would ensure equitable development across the Union Territory.
Meanwhile, the Lt Governor visited the Chumathang Hot Springs, famous for its therapeutic mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have medicinal properties, especially for skin ailments and joint pain.
