Ladakh, the picturesque region nestled in the Himalayas, has witnessed a rapid and transformative development trajectory under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, declared Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. The affirmation came during a meeting with a delegation led by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil Councillor, Stanzin Lakpa.
Expressing deep gratitude, the delegation conveyed their appreciation to PM Modi for the swift development Ladakh has experienced since attaining Union Territory status in October 2019. Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized the unprecedented priority accorded to Ladakh’s development and the well-being of its local population, including Buddhists and tribals, under PM Modi’s stewardship.
Highlighting the historical context, Dr Jitendra Singh noted that the dream of Ladakh achieving Union Territory status, which was first presented to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949, materialized only seven decades later during PM Modi’s tenure.
Underlining the significant strides in education, Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned the establishment of a University, Hotel Management Institute, and professional colleges in Ladakh—a first under the Modi government. He lauded the special development package of Rs. 50 crore for Ladakh, emphasizing the unprecedented financial support for various projects.
Dr Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of South East Asia’s first Night Sky Sanctuary at Hanle village in Eastern Ladakh, part of Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. This initiative aims to boost Astro-tourism, providing one of the world’s highest-located sites for optical, infra-red, and gamma-ray telescopes.
The Minister also highlighted the promotion of “Leh Berry” by the CSIR in the Union Ministry of Science & Technology—a unique food product of the cold desert. Additionally, the Department of Atomic Energy will set up facilities for Gamma Irradiation Technology to preserve and extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables in Ladakh.
Commending the commercial cultivation of medicinal plants at altitudes above 15,000 feet, including the “Sanjeevani Booti,” Dr Jitendra Singh expressed satisfaction over Ladakh’s apricot exports to international destinations.
In conclusion, the Minister reiterated the Modi government’s commitment to the holistic development of Ladakh, emphasizing the intersection of scientific advancements, cultural preservation, and economic prosperity in the region.