The Housing and Urban Development Department organized the ‘Praise Awards 2023-24’ ceremony on September 9 at Eco-Park, Main Market Leh. The event recognized Ladakh’s achievement as the Best Performing State in the Small State & UT category under the PM Svanidhi Scheme at the national level.

Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Leh, Stanzin Rabgyas, highlighted that Ladakh secured the top position within four years of the scheme's inception. He encouraged more beneficiaries to take advantage of the scheme to support and expand their small businesses.

First Lady of Ladakh, Neelam Mishra, served as the Chief Guest, while Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi was the Guest of Honour. The event was also attended by Principal Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Department, Sanjeev Khirwar, Director of Urban Local Bodies, Moses Kunzang, along with other distinguished guests.

In his welcome address, Director Moses Kunzang briefed the audience on the PM Svanidhi Scheme and encouraged street vendors to participate. He emphasized the department’s efforts to empower local vendors, assist them in branding their products, and collaborate with banks to ensure the scheme’s success. Additionally, he announced the development of winter-friendly bus stops in Leh and Kargil, featuring cafes run by Self Help Groups and public toilet facilities.

Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi lauded the achievements of the Housing and Urban Development Department, stating that the PM Svanidhi Scheme has significantly supported small street vendors. He also noted that such initiatives will contribute to Ladakh's long-term economic independence.

First Lady Neelam Mishra underscored the vital role street vendors play in society, particularly focusing on the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs. She advocated for the formation of Self Help Groups and Cooperatives to further upgrade businesses and enhance product quality, which in turn would increase sales and contribute to the vendors' independence. To commemorate the occasion, the First Lady distributed ‘Praise Awards’ to beneficiaries and banks, acknowledging their success under the PM Svanidhi Scheme. Students from New Millennium School and Upper Leh performed cultural presentations, and a nukkad natak by the Women’s Theatre and Cultural Group raised awareness about the scheme among the general public. The event saw enthusiastic participation from the local community.