Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Admiral R Hari Kumar met Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), at Raj Niwas on July 6. 

Commanding Officer, 1 Ladakh Battalion NCC Leh, Col VS Johar was also present in the meeting.

CNS Admiral Hari Kumar informed LG that the Indian Navy will not only host NCC cadets from Ladakh for their visit to naval establishments but also provide them with academic training for appearing in online exams to get entry into the Indian Navy. He stated that they are looking for NCC cadets who are keen to join the Indian Navy. Stating that there are currently only a few sailors/officials from Ladakh who are serving in the Indian Navy, CNS Admiral Hari Kumar informed about the plan to increase the enrolment of aspiring youth from Ladakh as sailors/officials in the Navy.

CNS Admiral Hari Kumar informed LG about their visit to various schools and colleges to raise awareness about opportunities in the Indian Navy to encourage them to join the naval force as a part of their outreach programme. He briefed about the various programmes organised by the Indian Navy in Ladakh over a period of two days, including the music performance by its band and the exhibition football match, etc.

Commending the Indian Navy for organising the programmes in Ladakh, LG instructed Col VS Johar to increase the number of NCC cadets who wish to visit naval establishments and are keen on joining the Indian Navy as it would be beneficial to them. 

LG informed CNS Admiral Hari Kumar about the plan to open a Sainik School in Ladakh at the earliest for the benefit of the Ladakhi students and youth. He also discussed various initiatives taken by the Administration for the overall development of Ladakh.

CNS Admiral Hari Kumar assured to provide all possible assistance for the setting up of Sainik School in Ladakh.