LEH: The Union Territory Administration of Ladakh on Wednesday launched the State-Level Watershed Mahotsav under the Watershed Development Component–Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY) 2.0, placing strong focus on community-driven water conservation and climate-resilient agriculture in the cold desert region.
The programme, launched at the DC Conference Hall in Leh, seeks to strengthen irrigation facilities, restore traditional water sources and promote sustainable land use to improve livelihoods in drought-prone areas. Officials said the effort aligns with Ladakh’s growing need for long-term water security, given its dependence on glaciers, snowmelt and minimal rainfall.
Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta inaugurated the Mahotsav, describing it as a “Jan-Andolan” powered by farmers, women’s self-help groups, youth volunteers and Panchayati Raj institutions. He encouraged communities to take part through Shramdaan, plantation activities and maintenance of watershed assets to ensure future sustainability.
The event coincided with National Constitution Day, where the pledge to uphold Constitutional values was administered.
The Lt Governor noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly called for water conservation to become a people’s movement, citing initiatives like Catch the Rain, Amrit Sarovar Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission and PMKSY. Despite its harsh terrain, Ladakh remains among the most proactive regions in advancing this vision, he said.
He announced that PMKSY, MGNREGA and Rural Development programmes will be converged to enhance water harvesting infrastructure, curb soil erosion and boost agriculture across panchayats, with efforts to continue under the upcoming WDC-PMKSY 3.0. Activities such as rallies, technical demonstrations and Pani ki Pathshala sessions are planned to engage the youth and raise awareness.
Administrative Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Shashanka Ala (IAS), informed that the current phase of WDC-PMKSY will conclude in 2026, paving the way for the next stage focused on indigenous methods for improved agricultural outcomes.
State Coordinator Shahnaz said 11 watershed projects—six in Leh and five in Kargil—are currently under execution, along with 36 micro-watershed initiatives featuring polycarbonate greenhouses, reservoir tanks (dzings), percolation tanks, irrigation khuls and springshed restoration works.
Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk, senior officials from multiple departments, block development officers and community representatives attended the launch.
