Leh, Jan 26 (PTI) Lauding the patriotism of Ladakhis, Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta on Monday outlined his vision for inclusive and sustainable development, with modernity and creating opportunities for youth, women, and border communities.
Addressing the main 77th Republic Day function here, he said the Centre’s special focus on border regions is leading to significant improvements in infrastructure and livelihoods in the region.
Gupta unfurled the national flag and took the salute of marching contingents against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains at the historic Polo Ground here. The Republic day functions were also held at Kargil district and other tehsil and block headquarters with patriotic fervor.
Extending Republic Day greetings to the people of Ladakh, the Lt Governor said the tricolour today flies proudly over Ladakh’s peaks and the Siachen Glacier, symbolising the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.
Recalling that India became the world’s largest democracy on January 26, 1950, he said the nation has overcome challenges through unity in diversity and collective responsibility.
Highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the benefit of the people, he said since assuming office on July 18, last year, he has travelled over 8,000 km by road to remote areas including Dras, Zanskar, Nubra, Changthang, Aryan Valley and border villages to directly engage with citizens.
“This outreach has helped identify local needs, resolve issues, strengthen trust and ensure equitable development, with administrative secretaries directed to take governance to the grassroots,” the Lt Governor said.
He said the youth employment aspirations rooted in Ladakh’s tribal identity are being addressed in a sensitive and balanced manner.
Gupta said his administration has accorded high priority to public health, allocating 8.76 per cent of the budget — higher than the national average.
He highlighted upgrades at Kargil District Hospital and SNM Hospital Leh, including a 3-Tesla MRI, expansion of emergency services, blood banks, staff housing and sanitation facilities.
He said 322 Health and Wellness Centres, mobile medical units and e-Sanjeevani have strengthened healthcare delivery, achieving 100 per cent vaccination, near-universal institutional deliveries and single-digit infant mortality.
Calling tourism the backbone of Ladakh’s economy, the Lt Governor emphasised sustainable tourism focused on cultural preservation and local livelihoods.
He highlighted major infrastructure projects including the Zoji La and Shinkun La tunnels, road and bridge construction, helipads, 4G connectivity and digital governance enabling telemedicine and public services.
He praised the patriotism of the people of Ladakh and said his administration is focused on making the region a model of inclusive and sustainable development, working to balance tradition with modernity and ensuring opportunities for youth, women and border communities.
The Lt Governor also paid tribute to the Armed Forces, CAPFs, Ladakh Scouts, police personnel, healthcare workers, teachers and citizens for their service.
He urged all to uphold constitutional values and work collectively towards a self-reliant Ladakh contributing to Viksit Bharat 2047. PTI TAS NB
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