10/04/2025
Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal Outlines Development Vision for UT Ladakh
Union Territory of Ladakh | 09 April 2025 BARDI PGJMC
In a detailed press briefing held in Leh, the Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, highlighted the region’s significant strides in development and laid out an ambitious roadmap aimed at bolstering infrastructure, governance, and public services. With a strong focus on sustainable growth and inclusive progress, Dr. Kotwal presented a comprehensive overview of the administration's current initiatives and future priorities.
Dr. Kotwal began by emphasizing the transformation in governance efficiency brought about by the full implementation of the E-Office system across UT Ladakh. This digital governance platform has accelerated the disposal of official files and allowed officers to work remotely, conduct meetings, and collaborate more effectively through webinars and virtual interfaces.
In another major step toward self-reliance and digital empowerment, the State Data Centre has now been established within the Union Territory, eliminating its previous dependency on Jammu’s infrastructure. This development is expected to significantly enhance data management, cybersecurity, and administrative autonomy.
Connectivity — a long-standing challenge in Ladakh — has also seen marked improvement. Under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), the region is witnessing an expansion of 4G mobile connectivity to even the most remote and border villages. Solar-powered telecom towers are being deployed to mitigate power issues in challenging terrains, with most towers expected to be fully operational by July 15, 2025. Dr. Kotwal noted that hurdles related to land acquisition and wildlife concerns have been effectively addressed in this process.
Touching upon the region’s financial planning, Dr. Kotwal revealed that the administration had been allocated a budget of ₹5,958 crore for the fiscal year, considering the limited six-month working season. The administration has already achieved 80 to 90% expenditure, which he described as a sign of effective financial discipline. Preparations, including the early issuance of tenders and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), are underway to ensure the timely ex*****on of all planned projects.
Tourism, which remains the backbone of Ladakh’s economy, is another sector witnessing renewed attention. With tourist numbers witnessing a dip in the previous season, the UT administration has conducted a series of review meetings with stakeholders to strategize ways to increase footfall while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
On the employment front, Dr. Kotwal announced that 3,200 individuals have been recruited into non-gazetted government posts across the UT. The recruitment process for gazetted positions is currently underway, with new recruitment rules in the final stages. These rules, once approved, will include the Resident Certificate as a key eligibility criterion under Para 4, ensuring opportunities for local aspirants.
Infrastructure remains a top priority for the administration. Dr. Kotwal provided updates on the Zojila and Sinkula tunnel projects, which are seen as game-changers for year-round connectivity. The Zojila Tunnel, managed by the NHIDCL, has completed 5.3 km of excavation from both ends, with a full breakthrough expected by the end of 2025 and project completion by 2027. Meanwhile, construction work on the Sinkula Tunnel has commenced and is anticipated to finish within the next three to four years. The strategic widening of the Khardung La Pass is also progressing as planned.
Further underscoring Ladakh’s developmental momentum, the Chief Secretary spoke of the 10,000 MW solar power project recently sanctioned by the Government of India. This massive renewable energy initiative is poised to transform the region's economy, generate employment, and position Ladakh as a green energy hub.
Healthcare and education have also received considerable attention from the administration. Dr. Kotwal noted that both Leh and Kargil district hospitals are now counted among the best healthcare facilities in the region, with improved infrastructure and highly committed medical personnel. In addition, the establishment of a new medical college in Leh, along with the filling of key medical posts under the National Health Mission (NHM), is helping bridge the gap in public health services. He added that permanent appointments for doctors, medical officers, and lecturers will soon be made, once the final criteria for gazetted posts are approved.
Addressing environmental concerns, Dr. Kotwal confirmed that the administration is actively tackling challenges such as poaching and solid waste management. Recent incidents of poaching have been addressed with swift police action, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward wildlife crimes.
Dr. Pawan Kotwal reiterated the Ladakh administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusive, balanced, and sustainable development. From digital transformation to clean energy and strategic infrastructure, he said the initiatives underway are geared toward creating a self-reliant and resilient Ladakh, ready to meet the demands of the future Info Edited by Ajaz Ahmad Bardi Chubi Leh PGJMC Mob: 9906996991 Email: [email protected]
