New Sports Policy to boost Youth participation in Ladakh: Gupta
Leh, Aug 16: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta today called for urgent measures to preserve Ladakh’s traditional arts and crafts, including Thangka painting, while promoting them as sustainable sources of income for the youth. He also reaffirmed the administration’s support for athletes who bring national recognition to the region, pointing to the upcoming Ladakh Sports Policy as a driver for greater participation.
Gupta met Rajesh Ranjan, Vice-Chancellor of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Choglamsar, who updated him on the institute’s academic programs and student strength. Plans for the inauguration of the Sowa Rigpa Hospital in September by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were also shared.
The Lt Governor stressed the need to organise internship programs for young artisans to safeguard traditional practices for future generations. He met outstanding athletes, including Para-Taekwondo player Rinchen Youdol and cricketer Skalzang Dorjey Kalyan, the first from Ladakh to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament as part of the J&K team.
Ven. Stanzin Gurmet, Vice-President of the Buddhist Association Kargil, also called on the Lt Governor, who assured that ancient heritage sites would be preserved and developed into tourist destinations, creating opportunities for local livelihoods.
Gupta’s initiatives signal a concerted effort by the UT administration to strengthen Ladakh’s cultural heritage, sporting achievements, and tourism potential, while engaging its youth in meaningful pursuits.
