Leh: Calling it a rare confluence of faith and history, former Member of Parliament Jamyang Tsering Namgyal on Tuesday described the arrival of the sacred relics of Gautama Buddha in Ladakh as a “once-in-a-lifetime spiritual moment” for the region.
Marking the occasion with Buddhist prayers, Namgyal said the presence of the relics was akin to the Buddha himself blessing the land and its people. “This is not just an event, but a deeply spiritual experience for Ladakh,” he remarked, extending his congratulations to residents across the region, particularly the Buddhist community.
The former MP expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena for facilitating what he termed a “historic return” of the revered relics. He also acknowledged the efforts of local institutions, including the Ladakh Buddhist Association and the Ladakh Gonpa Association, for ensuring smooth arrangements.
Recalling the past, Namgyal pointed out that Ladakh last witnessed such an exposition in 1951, making this year’s event—after a gap of 75 years—particularly significant. He noted that the sacred Piprahwa relics had once faced the risk of being auctioned abroad before being preserved and brought back under the present dispensation.
Linking the moment to Ladakh’s broader journey, Namgyal highlighted what he described as transformative changes in recent years. He referred to the grant of divisional status in 2018–19 and the region’s transition into a Union Territory in 2019 as key milestones.
He also listed major infrastructure projects such as the Zoji La Tunnel, ongoing works at Shinkun La Tunnel, and improved connectivity across high-altitude passes like Fotu La and Namkela. Plans for tunnels at Khardung La and Tanglang La, he added, would further strengthen year-round access.
Beyond infrastructure, Namgyal pointed to advancements in digital connectivity, education, and healthcare, along with cultural recognition for regional languages such as Bhoti, Purgi, and Balti. He also welcomed domicile laws aimed at safeguarding local employment and the recent notification of five new districts—Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar, and Drass.
Reflecting on his tenure in Parliament from 2019 to 2024, he said the demand for new districts had been consistently raised and thanked the Centre for acting on it.
Looking ahead, Namgyal welcomed the upcoming visit of Amit Shah to Ladakh, calling it another moment of pride for the region. He urged people to extend a warm reception in keeping with the spirit of hospitality. Concluding his remarks, he expressed gratitude to the people of Leh, Kargil, and the newly formed districts for their unity and continued support, describing it as the foundation of Ladakh’s progress.
