Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, Apr 9 : Dr Pawan Kotwal, the Chief Secretary of Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh, today highlighted the progress made in various developmental sectors and outlined future plans aimed at enhancing the infrastructure, economy, and quality of life for Ladakh residents.
Addressing a press conference, Dr Kotwal emphasized significant investments in road connectivity, tourism, power development, healthcare, education, employment and skill development.
The Chief Secretary said, “The Government of India has sanctioned a 10,000 MW solar power plant in Ladakh, which is expected to boost the region’s economy and create job opportunities.”
He also shared updates on the strategic tunnels under construction, including the Zojila and Shinkula tunnels and said, “The Zojila tunnel is already 64% completed and both projects will ensure year-round connectivity for Ladakh’s residents.”
About the development in the health and education sectors, the Chief Secretary said, “Significant progress has been made in this sector after the establishment of a new medical college in Leh and the filling of medical vacancies under the National Health Mission (NHM). Permanent posts for doctors, medical officers and lecturers would soon be filled once the resident criteria for gazetted posts in Ladakh are finalized.”
In tourism, which remains the prime industry for Ladakh, Dr Kotwal stated that the UT administration is working towards increasing tourist footfall while ensuring sustainable tourism development. Review meetings with stakeholders have been conducted to promote responsible tourism in the region.
The Chief Secretary confirmed that 3,200 non-gazetted posts have been successfully filled and the recruitment of gazetted posts is underway, with the process facing fewer hurdles now.
“The efforts are being made to tackle challenges like poaching and solid waste management, mentioning that police have taken action regarding a recent poaching incident,” he said.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, he concluded the session by underscoring the UT Ladakh administration’s dedication to achieving inclusive, balanced and sustainable development in all sectors.
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