Ladakh Witnesses Accelerated Development Under PM Modi, Affirms Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

New Delhi: Ladakh has experienced rapid and transformative development under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, stated Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh. He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation led by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC)-Kargil Councillor, Shri Stanzin Lakpa.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the significant attention and priority given by the Central Government, led by PM Modi, to the development of Ladakh and the well-being of its local population, including Buddhists and tribals. The delegation expressed deep gratitude to PM Modi for the swift progress and development witnessed in the region since it was granted Union Territory (UT) status in October 2019.

The Union Minister recalled the historical context, noting that although a Ladakh delegation had initially met Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1949 seeking separate UT status, the realization of this dream only occurred seven decades later under the leadership of PM Modi.

Emphasizing the unparalleled focus on Ladakh by the current government, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted key initiatives such as the establishment of a University, Hotel Management Institute, and professional colleges, all of which were initiated for the first time in the region.

PM Modi’s announcement of an action plan for a “Carbon Neutral” Ladakh and a Rs. 50 crore Special Development Package for the region were cited as groundbreaking measures in promoting sustainable development. Dr. Jitendra Singh also highlighted the establishment of an exclusive UPSC Civil Services Examination Centre in Leh, a significant governance and social reform for the youth in remote areas.

Ladakh is set to have South East Asia’s first Night Sky Sanctuary at the Night Sky Reserve in Hanle village, contributing to astro-tourism. Additionally, the promotion of “Leh Berry” by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Department of Atomic Energy’s plan to introduce Gamma Irradiation Technology for the preservation of fruits and vegetables were underscored as steps to boost agriculture and horticulture in the region.

Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed satisfaction at the commercial export of Ladakh’s apricots to international destinations like Dubai. The cultivation of medicinal plants and the establishment of facilities for Gamma Irradiation Technology are expected to further enhance Ladakh’s economic and agricultural landscape.