To acknowledge the unwavering dedication of Ladakh’s educators in enhancing school education and inspiring students, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), felicitated 12 outstanding teachers and masters during the 1st State Teachers Award 2024. The ceremony was held at Arya Nagarjuna Auditorium, Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Choglamsar on May 29 and organised by the UT Ladakh Department of School Education.

The awardees were recognised for their exceptional service, commitment, and innovative contributions to education across government schools in Ladakh. Those honoured include:
•    Mehboob Ali – HSS, Trespone
•    Shamima Bano – HSS, Chuchot
•    Farzana Parveen – HS, Goma (Kargil)
•    Rinchen Angmo – Boys HSS, Leh
•    Mohd Abdullah – MS, Karith
•    Dr Lotus Rabgais – MS, Taknak (Sakti)
•    Mohd Yusuf – Model MS, Biathang, Shilikchey
•    Chamba Yangtak – Igoo Langkhor
•    Talib Hussain – HS, Kaksar
•    Ishey Lamo – HS, Domkhar
•    Khaduim Hussain – HSS, Pashkyum
•    Sonam Angchuk – HSS, Baima, Leh

In his address, the Lt Governor lauded the awardees, calling them "nation builders" who hold a place of honour even above deities for their role in guiding future generations. Emphasising the transformative power of education, he urged parents and guardians to prioritise quality education and called on teachers to continue shaping the character and patriotism of students.

The Lt Governor also underscored the importance of aligning with futuristic visions such as harnessing nuclear energy, as advocated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to meet the nation’s growing energy demands. He highlighted key educational reforms in Ladakh, including the transition from JKBOSE to CBSE and the implementation of the National Education Policy 

Deputy Chairman of LAHDC Leh, Tsering Angchuk, congratulated the awardees and credited Ladakh’s improved board examination results to the consistent efforts of the teaching community. He also shared ongoing initiatives, including student transport facilities, conversion of rural schools into residential units, and plans to train staff for Atal Tinkering Labs.

Chief Secretary Dr Pawan Kotwal, IAS, echoed the sentiments, reflecting on the crucial role teachers played in his own academic journey. He highlighted the UT administration's commitment to honouring public servants for exemplary service and reiterated the national focus on nuclear energy as a developmental priority.

He urged the educators to nurture academic excellence among Ladakhi students and inspire them to become national achievers.

The event was attended by First Lady Neelam Mishra, councillors from LAHDC Leh and Kargil, Vice-Chancellor of CIBS Prof Rajesh Ranjan, administrative secretaries, education department officials, religious leaders, and school faculty.