Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon attended the Flag-In Ceremony of the National Integration Tour organized by the Indian Army under Operation Sadbhavana at Helipad Kargil on June 10.

The tour, conducted from June 1 to 10, 2026, was organized for students of Army Goodwill School Kargil, including 15 specially-abled students, with the objective of promoting national integration, cultural exchange, and exposure to educational and developmental opportunities across the country.
During the programme, the participants shared their experiences from the tour, during which they visited several prominent destinations, including Jammu, Delhi, Dehradun, and Shimla. The students and accompanying teachers expressed their gratitude to the Indian Army for providing them with an enriching and memorable learning experience.

The Principal of Army Goodwill School highlighted the significance of such initiatives in broadening students’ horizons and helping them gain confidence, awareness, and exposure to diverse opportunities.

The ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar and senior Army officers, including Brigadier Ashish Anil Joshi, Commanding Officer 30 Rajput Colonel Laxman Singh Shekhawat, and Major Rahul, besides teachers, parents, and students.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Akhoon lauded the Indian Army for its continued efforts towards the welfare and empowerment of Ladakh’s youth through various educational and social initiatives. He said that such tours provide students with an opportunity to understand the country's diversity, culture, and development while strengthening the spirit of unity, patriotism, and national integration.

Dr. Akhoon also appreciated the opportunity provided to some of the students to interact with the Hon’ble President of India during the tour, describing it as a memorable and inspiring experience that would leave a lasting impact on their lives.

The CEC expressed special appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Brigadier Ashish Anil Joshi and all those involved in successfully organizing the tour. He also highlighted the remarkable capabilities of specially-abled children and urged parents and society to provide them with continuous encouragement and support.

Referring to several inspiring examples of specially-abled individuals who have excelled in various fields, including the civil services, he emphasized that disability should never be viewed as a limitation to achieving success.

Dr. Akhoon further informed that the Administration and LAHDC Kargil are working to strengthen facilities for specially-abled students and announced plans for a dedicated hostel to cater to their needs. He thanked the Deputy Commissioner Kargil and all concerned departments for their efforts in promoting inclusive education and welfare initiatives across the district.

The programme concluded with the presentation of mementoes and gifts to the participating students and guests, followed by a vote of thanks. The event marked the successful completion of the National Integration Tour and reaffirmed the collective commitment towards empowering youth and fostering national unity.