The Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) organized a Loan Distribution Ceremony at the Rural Development Department Hall, Agling, Leh on November 7, where Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to building a self-reliant, inclusive, and economically empowered Ladakh.

He said the vision of Atmanirbhar Ladakh can be realized only through inclusive development, where women, youth, artisans, and marginalized sections actively participate in the region’s progress.

“Economic empowerment is the key to self-reliance, and every step taken today will shape the future of Ladakh as a model of sustainable development,” the Lt Governor stated.

Addressing beneficiaries and entrepreneurs, Kavinder Gupta said the event marks a significant milestone in Ladakh’s journey towards financial inclusion and self-sufficiency. He commended SIDCO for successfully implementing schemes that help people move from dependency to entrepreneurship.

Highlighting Ladakh’s economic progress, the Lt Governor informed that over 13,600 MSME unitshave been established in the UT, creating employment for more than 50,000 individuals. In addition, 147 Industrial Estate Units are operational, driving local manufacturing and small-scale industries. He said these developments reflect the determination of the people of Ladakh to contribute to the UT’s growth story.

The Lt Governor praised SIDCO for empowering weaker sections, including Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, minorities, persons with disabilities, and sanitation workers, describing it as “a bridge of opportunity ensuring government support reaches every deserving citizen.”

He highlighted SIDCO’s key initiatives such as the Virasat Scheme for traditional artisans, Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana (AMSY) for empowering tribal women, and the Educational Loan Scheme for students pursuing higher and technical education.

Loans are being provided at concessional interest rates ranging from 4% to 10%, ensuring wider access to credit and promoting entrepreneurship across the region.

Kavinder Gupta announced that in recent Project Implementation Committee (PIC) meetings, 89 beneficiaries in Leh and 48 in Kargil were approved for loans amounting to Rs 16.17 crore, underscoring the Administration’s focus on accelerating self-employment and enterprise development.

He further informed that 4,188 artisans from Ladakh have been registered under the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, providing traditional craftsmen new recognition and market access. The Brand Ladakh showrooms established in Leh and Delhi are helping showcase Made in Ladakh products nationally. Under SIDCO’s initiatives, ₹1.19 crore has also been provided as seed capital to women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), enabling them to become successful entrepreneurs and community role models.

Addressing the youth, the Lt Governor urged them to become job creators rather than job seekers, and to leverage government initiatives such as PMEGP, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Start-Up India, and SIDCO’s loan schemes to build innovative ventures.

“Ladakh’s youth possess the creativity, courage, and determination to shape a new economic identity for the region,” he said.

Concluding his address, Kavinder Gupta remarked that the government’s vision goes beyond financial assistance — it is about ensuring dignity, opportunity, and empowerment for every individual.

“Each beneficiary must treat this loan not merely as support, but as a responsibility to fulfill their dreams and contribute to Ladakh’s progress. Together, we can build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Ladakh,” he said.

Earlier, Bhupesh Chaudhary, IAS, Secretary and Managing Director, SIDCO, in his inaugural address, outlined SIDCO’s journey since its inception in 2021 and its role in facilitating loans and nurturing entrepreneurship in Ladakh.

Sonam Norboo, JKAS, Senior Managing Director, SIDCO expressed gratitude to the Lt Governor and dignitaries for their presence and support.