Leh, Jan 28: Lauding the patriotism of Ladakhis, Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta on Monday outlined his vision for inclusive and sustainable development, with modernity and creating opportunities for youth, women, and border communities.
Addressing the main 77th Republic Day function here, he said the Centre’s special focus on border regions is leading to significant improvements in infrastructure and livelihoods in the region.
Gupta unfurled the national flag and took the salute of marching contingents against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains at the historic Polo Ground here. The Republic day functions were also held at Kargil district and other tehsil and block headquarters with patriotic fervor.
Extending Republic Day greetings to the people of Ladakh, the Lt Governor said the Tricolour today flies proudly over Ladakh’s peaks and the Siachen Glacier, symbolising the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution. He said Republic Day carries two enduring messages — “The Mantra of Freedom – Vande Mataram,” marking its 150th year, and “The Mantra of Prosperity – Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” reflecting India’s journey towards self-reliance, cultural diversity and national strength.
Kavinder Gupta said Republic Day is not merely a celebration of past achievements but a reaffirmation of citizens’ constitutional duties. Recalling that India became the world’s largest democracy on January 26, 1950, he said the nation has overcome challenges through unity in diversity and collective responsibility. He noted that India’s achievements in economic growth, science, education, healthcare, democratic institutions, culture and social development have earned global admiration.
Highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Lt Governor referred to milestones such as India emerging as the fifth-largest economy, the digital revolution through UPI and JAM trinity, GST reforms, integration following abrogation of Article 370, flagship schemes including Swachh Bharat, Ayushman Bharat, PM Awas Yojana, Ujjwala, Jal Jeevan Mission, and achievements in space missions such as Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1. He also cited infrastructure expansion, successful COVID-19 vaccination, Production Linked Incentive schemes, NEP-2020, women empowerment legislation, International Solar Alliance leadership and the successful hosting of the G20. He reiterated the Government of India’s special focus on border regions through the Vibrant Villages Programme to improve infrastructure, livelihoods and quality of life with community participation.
Describing Ladakh’s strategic and cultural importance, Kavinder Gupta praised the patriotism of its people. Since assuming office on July 18, 2025, he said he has travelled over 8,000 km by road to remote areas including Dras, Zanskar, Nubra, Changthang, Aryan Valley and border villages to directly engage with citizens. He said this outreach has helped identify local needs, resolve issues, strengthen trust and ensure equitable development, with Administrative Secretaries directed to take governance to the grassroots. He added that youth employment aspirations rooted in Ladakh’s tribal identity are being addressed in a sensitive and balanced manner.
The Lt Governor said the UT Administration has accorded high priority to public health, allocating 8.76 per cent of the budget — higher than the national average. He highlighted upgrades at Kargil District Hospital and SNM Hospital Leh, including a 3-Tesla MRI, expansion of emergency services, blood banks, staff housing and sanitation facilities. He said 322 Health and Wellness Centres, mobile medical units and e-Sanjeevani have strengthened healthcare delivery, achieving 100 per cent vaccination, near-universal institutional deliveries and single-digit infant mortality. Preservation of traditional Sowa-Rigpa medicine through the National Institute and progress towards operationalising Leh Medical College were also highlighted.
On education and youth development, Kavinder Gupta spoke about the expansion of Sindhu Central University at Khalsi and introduction of skill-based courses under NEP-2020. He said schools have been strengthened with Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, ICT labs, smart classrooms, tablets for students, Atal Tinkering Labs and astronomy facilities. Initiatives like REWA 2.0, NCC camps and sports programmes are nurturing talent and competitive spirit.
Calling tourism the backbone of Ladakh’s economy, the Lt Governor emphasised sustainable tourism focused on cultural preservation and local livelihoods. He noted the growth of eco-tourism, employment through festivals, youth-designed branding initiatives, and Hanle’s recognition as India’s first Dark Sky Sanctuary. He highlighted major infrastructure projects including the Zoji La and Shinkun La tunnels, road and bridge construction, helipads, 4G connectivity and digital governance enabling telemedicine and public services.
He also referred to progress in sanitation, renewable energy, winter sports promotion, agriculture, horticulture, dairy, fisheries and entrepreneurship. Digital governance initiatives, women self-help groups, rural employment generation and the launch of the Land Records Web GIS Portal were cited as key reforms.
Outlining his vision for Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta said the UT aims to become a model of inclusive and sustainable development, balancing tradition with modernity and ensuring opportunities for youth, women and border communities.
In his concluding remarks, the Lt Governor paid tribute to the Armed Forces, CAPFs, Ladakh Scouts, police personnel, healthcare workers, teachers and citizens for their service. He urged all to uphold constitutional values and work collectively towards a self-reliant Ladakh contributing to Viksit Bharat 2047.
Kavinder also felicitated the winners of the marching contingents, in which Jaffaria Academy of Modern Education, Kargil stood first, followed by Government Girls Higher Secondary School Leh and Sindh Public School Leh at second and third places, respectively. Similarly, Mahabodhi Residential School Choglamsar stood first in cultural performance while Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School Leh and Ladakh Public School Leh came second and third, respectively.
The names of the winners of LG Gold Medal, State Award and District Award winners, who have contributed for the development of Ladakh in various fields, were also announced on the occasion.
Earlier, the Lt Governor took salute of the marching contingents, namely Ladakh Police (Men and Women), Central Reserve Police Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Ex-Servicemen, National Cadet Corps boys and girls from Leh and NCC boys from Kargil, Imamia Model High School Leh, Sindh Public School Leh, Islamia Public School Leh, Government Girls Higher Secondary School Leh, Jaffaria Academy of Modern Education Kargil, Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre band, Ladakh Police pipe band and Government High School Bodh Kharbu band.
Students from various schools and artists from Ladakh Academy of Art Culture and Languages Leh and Kargil also performed on the occasion.
Among those present during the event were Member of parliament from Ladakh Mohmad Haneefa Jan, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, DGP Ladakh Mukesh Singh, Administrative Secretaries, senior officials from Army, ITBP, Air Force, Ladakh Police; head of religious and political organisations, heads of Civil Society Organisations, prominent citizens, award winners, Head of Departments/Directors and senior officials from Ladakh along with a large number of crowd.
Meanwhile, the 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at Biamathang, Kargil, in the presence of public representatives, religious leaders, senior government officers, Army officials, students, and a large number of citizens.
The National Flag was unfurled by the Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon. Prominent dignitaries present on the occasion included Executive Councillors Aga Syed Mujtaba and Kacho Feroz, Deputy Commissioner and CEO, LAHDC Kargil Rakesh Kumar (IAS), SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav, ADC Imteeaz Kacho, Commanding Officer, 121 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier Ashish Joshi, other Army officers, heads of departments, and elected representatives.
Addressing the gathering, the CEC extended warm Republic Day greetings and recalled that on January 26, 1950, India adopted its Constitution, laying the foundation of a sovereign, secular, and democratic nation based on the principles of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. He emphasized that Republic Day is not merely a ceremonial occasion but a reminder of our collective responsibility to uphold constitutional values.
Dr. Akhoon stated that Kargil has always played a vital role in safeguarding national unity and integrity, and its people have consistently demonstrated patriotism, harmony, and resilience. He paid rich tributes to the freedom fighters and national leaders, adding that true homage to them lies in selfless service and dedication toward nation-building.
Highlighting key developmental initiatives under his chairmanship, the CEC said that LAHDC Kargil is prioritising infrastructure development across sectors such as education, healthcare, roads, drinking water, renewable energy, tourism, and employment. He informed that construction of 56 school buildings has been completed to upgrade educational infrastructure. Tablets are being provided to over 1,000 students, while winter coaching is being conducted in 73 schools for Classes 10 and 12. The admission capacity of JNV Khumbathang has been enhanced from 40 to 80 seats. For the first time, more than 400 students from PM Shri Schools were sent on exposure tours outside the district.
On employment generation, Dr. Akhoon stated that 343 educated youths were provided permanent jobs during the year, and recruitment for graduate-level posts will follow soon. For this remarkable achievement, the CEC appreciated Chairman KSSRB and DC Kargil Rakesh Kumar (IAS) for ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process. He also lauded Secretary KSSRB Kargil, Jahangeer Akhoon, for his exemplary execution of examinations at the ground level. Additionally, 553 youths were engaged as teachers under Academic Arrangement in Hindi, Urdu, and Bhoti.
In the livestock and allied sectors, the CEC informed that 308 beneficiaries received assistance under animal husbandry schemes, while 11,000 poultry units were distributed to promote poultry farming. In the fisheries sector, 20,000 trout fish seeds and 150 quintals of feed were distributed. Further, ice boxes and insurance coverage were provided to 60 units, along with 10 scooties. The Industries Department sanctioned loans for 47 units under food processing schemes.
Under various development schemes of the Rural Development Department (RDD), out of 1,088 works, 867 have been completed. Residential houses are being constructed for 413 BPL families under housing schemes. Under MGNREGA, over 13.28 lakh man-days were generated, and ₹35.98 crore was paid as wages. The Labour Department provided ₹9.65 lakh as assistance under welfare schemes.
Dr. Akhoon informed that the Kargil Wing at Ladakh Bhawan, New Delhi, is nearing completion to provide accommodation for patients and travellers. Significant progress has also been achieved in Sankoo, Shakar Chiktan, and Zanskar subdivisions under various construction works.
Tourism has been identified as a priority sector, and efforts are underway to strengthen infrastructure at major tourist destinations. The Cable Car/Chair Lift projects at Zanskar and Drass are expected to commence soon.
In the health sector, a 3 Tesla MRI machine has been installed at District Hospital Kargil, along with the establishment of a blood bank, while construction work of Block ‘B’ is underway. Additionally, nine ambulances will be provided soon. A 128-slice CT scan has also been installed at CHC Sankoo.
The CEC further informed that 531 km of insulated power cable wiring has been laid in Kargil town, and further strengthening of transmission and distribution networks is planned. He said the Council has made concerted efforts to keep the Srinagar–Kargil National Highway open for the maximum possible duration and has requested the Ministry of Civil Aviation to initiate civil air services from Kargil. He added that only about 800 metres of tunnelling work remains to be completed under the Zojila Tunnel project.
The CEC congratulated meritorious students and outstanding sportspersons and expressed gratitude to the UT Administration, particularly the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, and district officers for their continued cooperation and support.
A colourful cultural programme featuring patriotic songs, skits, and traditional dances showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh. The celebrations concluded with an award ceremony honouring officers, educators, NGOs, media persons, and frontline workers for their exemplary services.
