Amit Sharma, Secretary (RD/IT/Transport/Disaster Management & MD, SIDCO) of UT Ladakh, recently completed an official four-day tour of the remote border areas in Leh district. This visit aimed to assess and enhance developmental efforts in these regions, adopting a 'whole of Government approach.'

During his tour, Secretary Sharma engaged directly with local leaders and communities, closely monitoring the progress of critical infrastructure and development projects.

On the first day, Secretary Sharma visited Hunder village and its neighboring areas, where he conducted a comprehensive review of ongoing initiatives under the Rural Development Department. Accompanied by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Nubra and the Block Development Officers (BDOs) of Diskit and Panamik, he evaluated the implementation of various schemes aimed at uplifting these remote communities.

The second day took Secretary Sharma to Thang, a remote border village at the zero point of the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. Here, he was welcomed by Executive Councillor Turtuk, Shri Ghulam Mehdi, and interacted with the Lambardars (village heads) from Skampuk, Terchey, Skuru, Bodgang, Turtuk, and Tyakshi Pachathang. The focus of these interactions was to understand the unique challenges faced by these border villages and to explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing projects. His visit highlighted the UT Administration’s commitment to ensuring that even the most remote and isolated communities benefit from development initiatives, reinforcing the importance of inclusive growth in the region.

In Thoise, Secretary Sharma also held a detailed meeting with the CAO of the Air Force, discussing the early initiation of commercial operations at the local airport, a top priority for the UT Administration under the leadership of LG Brig (Retd) Dr. B.D. Mishra

On the third day, Secretary Sharma visited several strategically important areas, including Mann, Merak, and Chushul villages, along with the Block Development Officer of Durbuk Block. He prioritized engaging directly with the local communities, listening to their grievances, and understanding the challenges they face.

In Mann village, residents raised several pressing issues, including the lack of reliable telecommunication connectivity and inadequate water supply, which affects both their daily lives and agricultural activities. They also requested the upgradation of the local sub-center into a Primary Health Center (PHC).

In response, Secretary Sharma assured swift action to address these concerns. He promised to expedite the activation of a mobile network tower in the area to resolve the long-standing connectivity issues and committed to constructing culverts or small bridge-like structures at seven locations around Pangong/Mann.

Recognizing the importance of tourism to the local economy, Sharma also pledged to install a Public Information Board at the entrance to Pangong Tso (lake) village and proposed the introduction of local tourist guides to enhance visitors' experiences by providing insights into the area’s history and culture.

On the penultimate day of his visit, Secretary Sharma addressed the challenges faced by residents of Thakrung Valley and Chushul village, the last village at the LoC with China. The local community has been making commendable efforts to convert barren land into a lush, green valley, but significant irrigation problems threaten the success of their project. Sharma assured the residents that their irrigation issues would be resolved and pledged to provide the necessary support to ensure the valley’s transformation continues, contributing to both the region’s ecological and economic development.

Secretary Amit Sharma’s visit to Mann, Merak, and Chushul demonstrated a genuine commitment to addressing the needs of local communities. His promises of improved infrastructure, better healthcare, enhanced tourism facilities, and support for local agricultural initiatives reflect the UT Administration’s comprehensive approach to regional development, aiming to create lasting positive impacts for those living near the border areas.

Secretary Sharma concluded his tour with a visit to the Rezang-La War Memorial, Ahir Dham, where he paid heartfelt tributes to the courageous martyrs who fought valiantly in the historic Battle of Rezang La.