Gazetted aspirants from Ladakh expressed gratitude to the LAHDC, Kargil, for passing a three-point resolution that includes the establishment of a separate Ladakh Service Cadre and Cadre Management by JKPSC, the adoption of the Sikkim Model of Reservation for gazetted posts, and the relaxation of the upper age limit for recruitment in UT Ladakh. This resolution was passed following a series of discussions on October 19.

During a press conference on October 23, the aspirants stated that the resolution passed by the Hill Council Kargil represents the first positive response they have received so far.

The aspirants outlined their journey, noting that they had organized a seminar in July 2024 to discuss the growing issue of unemployment and the lack of recruitment for gazetted posts. Following the seminar, a dedicated team of aspirants conducted a month-long study to develop a comprehensive blueprint aimed at addressing the issue. This blueprint was shared with key stakeholders, including LAHDC Leh and Kargil, the UT administration, the Apex Body, Kargil Democratic Alliance, and other socio-religious organizations, seeking their feedback and suggestions. However, despite the broad outreach, the stakeholders in Leh did not respond to the proposals, leading the aspirants to believe that there was a lack of seriousness in addressing the concerns of the unemployed youths. The blueprint includes four key proposals to address the growing unemployment issue and ensure fair employment opportunities for the youth of Ladakh. These proposals are: fast-tracking the gazetted recruitment process, providing age relaxation for affected candidates, establishing a separate public service commission for Ladakh, and ensuring transparency and communication.

The aspirants expressed concern that the stakeholders in Leh seemed to show less seriousness regarding the issue of gazetted aspirants. They urged the Hill Council Leh to discuss the draft blueprint and pass a resolution before the talks with the MHA resume in December.

Padma, one of the aspirants, stated, “We are eagerly waiting for the Hill Council Leh’s stance on this issue and hope to find a solution to this burning concern.”

Since the formation of the Union Territory Ladakh in 2019, recruitment for gazetted posts in Ladakh has stalled, placing the region's youth at a significant disadvantage. The prolonged absence of recruitment processes has left many in distress, with some exceeding the eligible age for these posts. As a result, thousands of young people in Ladakh remain unemployed, with many losing out on opportunities due to age restrictions. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir have regularly conducted recruitment drives for both gazetted and non-gazetted posts, further highlighting the disparity in employment opportunities.

Phuntsog Targais, another aspirant, demanded fair and equal opportunities for the youth of Ladakh and urged stakeholders to address the issue and initiate the recruitment process at the earliest.