Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, inaugurated Phase I of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Scheme on November 10, marking a major step toward self-reliance and sustainable rural growth in the Union Territory. Developed under the Special Development Package at an estimated cost of ₹9.97 crore, the project will ensure assured irrigation to the remote Sodh region, significantly boosting agricultural productivity and farmers’ income.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chairman/CEC LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon; Member of Parliament Ladakh, Mohd Haneefa Jan; Executive Councillor, Kacho Mohd Feroz; Deputy Commissioner, Rakesh Kumar; SSP Nitin Yadav; ADC Imteeaz Kacho; Superintending Engineer, Hydraulics; Councillor Manzoor Hussain; Executive Engineer, I&FC, along with village elders, departmental representatives, and local residents.

Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor congratulated the people of Sodh on the completion of the project’s first phase, calling it “a step toward realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.” He emphasized that the project reflects the UT Administration’s commitment to empowering rural communities through infrastructure development, technology-driven irrigation systems, and sustainable water management.

LG Gupta lauded the efforts of engineers and officials involved in the project, reiterating the Prime Minister’s belief that true development can only be achieved when the remotest villages are empowered. He added that initiatives promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local are transforming even the most far-flung regions like Sodh.

The Lt. Governor informed that Phase II of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Project has already received administrative approval and highlighted the Administration’s focus on expanding solar lift, sprinkler, and micro-irrigation systems across Ladakh to enhance water efficiency and reduce energy costs.

CEC Dr. Jaffer Akhoon expressed gratitude to the Lt. Governor, former leaders Qamar Ali Akhoon, Kacho Ahmad Khan, and Feroz Khan, along with departmental heads for their contributions. He suggested transitioning the project from conventional power to solar energy to make it more cost-effective for farmers.

MP Mohd Haneefa Jan urged the LG to expedite Phase II, emphasizing the region’s immense potential for horticulture once the irrigation network becomes fully operational. Area Councillor Manzoor Hussain also extended gratitude, calling the inauguration “a historic milestone in Sodh’s development journey.”

Later, the Lt. Governor attended the Karakul Sheep Exhibition at Khumbathang, organized under the National Livestock Mission. Commending the efforts of progressive farmers and scientists, he said the exhibition showcased the resilience and innovation of Ladakh’s herders and reflected the Administration’s dedication to strengthening the livestock sector.

He praised the scientific teams and herders for their work in conserving and improving the Karakul breed, noting that through the National Livestock Mission, the Administration aims to make every Ladakhi family self-reliant by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in animal husbandry.

Reaffirming his commitment to Ladakh’s rural transformation, the Lt. Governor said, “Our farmers and herders have shown that with the right guidance and technological support, remarkable results are possible even in the most challenging terrains. Together, we will make Ladakh a model of agricultural and livestock development — a true symbol of innovation and self-reliance.”