Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, on May 25 chaired an interactive session with Indian Forest Service (IFS) probationers of the 2025–2027 batch from the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA) during their study visit to Ladakh.

The interaction was held as part of the probationers’ field exposure programme in the Union Territory.

The session began with an introduction of the probationers, who shared their educational backgrounds, allotted cadres, and professional experiences. Faculty members accompanying the probationers were also present during the interaction.

S. Rajesh, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF) and Chief Wildlife Warden, UT Ladakh, introduced the probationers and faculty members to the Chief Secretary on behalf of the visiting delegation and briefed him on the objectives of their study visit.

Welcoming the probationers to Ladakh, the Chief Secretary interacted with them in an open and engaging manner, sharing his experiences from public service and professional life. He encouraged the young officers to uphold integrity, remain committed to public service, and contribute meaningfully to society while adapting to the evolving challenges of governance and environmental conservation.

Kundra emphasized the importance of intellectual integrity, optimism, innovation, and a willingness to take risks in public administration. He urged the probationers to continuously challenge themselves, stay grounded in their values, and strive to create a positive and lasting impact through their careers.

The Chief Secretary also spoke about the changing socio-economic and environmental landscape of the country and highlighted the growing importance of climate change mitigation, wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, environmental education, and ecological protection. He stressed that forest and wildlife officers play a critical role in balancing conservation efforts with sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.

Referring to Ladakh’s unique ecological conditions, Kundra encouraged the probationers to think beyond conventional approaches and explore innovative, community-driven conservation models that create economic incentives while preserving biodiversity and fragile ecosystems.

He further highlighted the importance of developing specialization, field experience, and practical understanding in areas such as climate resilience, water conservation, forest protection, and sustainable development, especially in ecologically sensitive regions like Ladakh.

The interaction concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by one of the probationers on behalf of IGNFA, expressing gratitude to the Chief Secretary for his insightful guidance and motivational interaction. The probationers, representing different states and cadres across the country, appreciated the opportunity to engage with the administration and gain insights into governance and environmental challenges in Ladakh.