Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, on April 10 inaugurated the Old Age Home (Zimskhang) for senior citizens at Saboothang, marking a significant step towards strengthening social welfare and inclusive development in the region.

Constructed at a cost of ₹19.74 crore and spread over an area of 1,925 square metres, the facility is a state-of-the-art structure designed to accommodate 50 to 55 elderly residents, including both men and women. It comprises 12 rooms and four dormitories, along with a reception and waiting area, TV room, dining-cum-kitchen space, medical and office rooms, and essential utility services such as water supply, electricity, and sewerage systems.

Additional features include a geodesic dome with seating arrangements for prayer, a fire-fighting system with alarms and a public address system, passenger lifts, and accessibility provisions for differently-abled individuals.

The Old Age Home also incorporates several green and energy-efficient features, such as the use of eco-friendly construction materials, adherence to green building norms, an Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC)-compliant electrical substation, maximum utilisation of natural light, and thermal insulation through natural earth walls. The geodesic dome design helps trap solar heat, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described the inauguration as a moment of great significance, stating that the facility is not merely a building but a symbol of society’s values, compassion, and collective responsibility towards its elderly population.

Highlighting Ladakh’s cultural ethos, he said the region has always upheld deep respect for senior citizens, who serve as custodians of tradition and guiding forces in society. He acknowledged the contributions of organisations such as the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, HelpAge India, and Tibetan Settlement Choglamsar for their continued efforts in the welfare of the elderly.

The Lieutenant Governor noted that this is the first instance of the UT Administration directly establishing such a facility for senior citizens, ensuring a safe, dignified, and well-managed environment. The facility will be operated under a collaborative model with the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, following the signing of an MoU between the UT Administration and MIMC.

Emphasising the invaluable role of senior citizens, L-G Saxena said they are repositories of wisdom, experience, and cultural values whose guidance strengthens families and society.

He also underlined the moral responsibility of society to care for its elderly, particularly in their later years when they require both physical care and emotional support. Noting that loneliness can become a concern with advancing age, he urged families to spend time with their elders, listen to them, and make them feel valued and included.

He stressed that the objective should go beyond providing shelter and instead ensure that every senior citizen lives with dignity, security, and a sense of belonging.

Reaffirming the Administration’s commitment, the Lieutenant Governor stated that efforts will continue to promote inclusive development, strengthen social security mechanisms, and ensure that governance reaches every section of society, especially senior citizens.