Chairman/CEC, LAHDC, Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon inaugurated the 2nd Edition of Zanskar Winter Sport & Tourism Festival 2023-24 at Sports Stadium Padum Zanskar on February 15.

Executive Councillors, Phuntsog Tashi and Zakir Hussain; Councilor Drass, Abdul Samad; Sub Divisional Magistrate Zanskar, Romil Singh Donk; Assistant Commissioner Revenue Mohd Sharif; Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kacho Liyaqat and other District and Sub Divisional Officers were present.

The Chief Guest and distinguished attendees made a spectacular entrance at the venue, arriving on horses and yaks from the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), alongside artists, the organizing committee, and local musicians. After the festival's grand inauguration, the Chief Guest and dignitaries embarked on a captivating tour of the stalls set up by various departments of self-help groups (SHG) and monks.

The festival commenced with the solemn recitation of Mangla Charm (Puja) and an enchanting Mask Dance performed by monks from diverse monasteries. Local artists further enriched the cultural experience by presenting folk songs and dances, contributing to the festive ambiance.

CEC expressed his condolence to the family members of the Late Stanzin Dolkar, whose case is under investigation and the report of the forensic test is awaiting. He also disclosed that, in this case, a person is also arrested from West Bengal and is under trial by the Ladakh Police.

Dr Jaffer also announced an amount of Rs 2 crores for the renovation of the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the request of President Zanskar Buddhist Association, EC Er Phunsok Tashi and Councilor Karsha who approached the LAHDC for the demand.

He also informed the gathering that LAHDC Kargil acknowledges and supports the demand of the District for Zanskar and other subdivisions including Sankoo and Drass who are demanding district status.

CEC Dr Jaffer said that as per the recent Gazette of India, the inclusion of Gujjar, Sippi,  Bakarwal and Gaddi in the Schedule tribes of Ladakh is a serious concern as there is no population of the said tribes in Ladakh. He requested the Government of India to review the gazette as it raises serious concerns and goes against the aspirations of the people of Ladakh. He also requested L-G Ladakh to intervene in the matter.
 
During his address to the gathering, EC Tashi extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Zanskar and expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for appointing an IAS Officer as SDM in Zanskar. He underscored the commitment of the new SDM to diligently work towards the upliftment of the area in various developmental sectors.

CEC and other guests also witnessed the exhibition Ice Hockey Match between Zanskar Winter Sports Foundation v/s Chaddar Timer, in which Chaddar Timer won the match by scoring 2 goals against Zanskar Winter Sports Foundation.

EC commended the ice hockey team for their outstanding performance in the CEC Cup at Kargil, highlighting their remarkable achievement of securing three consecutive wins in the tournament.

Later, the chief guest and dignitaries also witnessed the snow ski competition at Zanskar Snow Ski School Padum, in which 13 girls' cross-country races and downhill one race were also conducted by the organizers.