Leh, Jan 2: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Wednesday said the Union Territory Administration is making dedicated efforts to bring the sacred Buddha relics to Ladakh for public darshan, enabling devotees to draw spiritual inspiration and reinforcing Ladakh’s identity as a global hub of Buddhism and peace.
The LG was speaking during his visit to the iconic Hemis Monastery on the first day of the New Year 2026. He also visited the Maitri Geriatric Home at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), Devachan Campus, Choglamsar, and extended New Year greetings with a message of peace, compassion, and inclusive growth.
At Hemis Monastery — established in 1630 by Staktsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso — the LG was accorded a warm welcome by Head Abbot Ven. Nawang Jigmet and Secretary Dr. Ishey Namgyal. He offered prayers, visited the shrine rooms, and sought blessings for the peace and prosperity of Ladakh and its people.
The monastery officials apprised the LG of various initiatives led by His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa, including the Naropa Fellowship, Druk Padma Karpo School, and the Live to Rescue Animal Shelter. They also sought the LG’s intervention for the construction of a Sarai in Srinagar for Ladakh patients on the land owned by Hemis Monastery.
Highlighting Ladakh’s deep spiritual heritage, Gupta said the region plays a vital role in promoting harmony, mindfulness, and universal human values.
Later, the LG visited the Maitri Geriatric Home, which houses 40 elderly residents from across Ladakh, providing them with free food, care, and medical facilities. He described senior citizens as “the foundation of society,” whose wisdom and values shape future generations.
Gupta reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to improving welfare, healthcare, and social security for the elderly. Administrative Secretary Shashanka Ala briefed him about the upcoming 50-bed old-age home being constructed by the Social Welfare Department at Saboo, which may be jointly operated with MIMC for better care delivery.
Director SWD Kunzes Angmo and officers from the department and MIMC were also present on the occasion.
