Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, reaffirmed the Union Territory administration’s commitment to equitable growth across remote and border areas during his maiden visit to the Nyoma sub-division  on September 5.

Addressing a public darbar, the Lt Governor stressed that governance must be rooted in direct dialogue with citizens. “Direct engagement with people strengthens relationships, improves service delivery, and drives socio-economic growth,” he said, adding that face-to-face interaction is the cornerstone of effective administration.

Gupta assured that no village, however remote, would be left behind due to geographical or climatic challenges. “Our priority is to bridge the developmental gap between urban centres and distant hamlets of the Union Territory,” he emphasized.

Marking the visit, the Lt Governor inaugurated the new Tehsildar office and record room at Nyoma, constructed at a cost of ₹2.95 crore. He also laid the foundation stone for the SDM’s residential quarters, worth ₹1.08 crore. Referring to his earlier tours to Kargil and Suru Valley, Gupta said grassroots visits allow the administration to identify and resolve region-specific issues through direct communication.

Outlining his vision to transform Ladakh into a hub of connectivity and tourism, the Lt Governor announced plans to expand road and telecom networks, boost tourist facilities in remote areas, and set up cafeterias, washrooms, and souvenir shops every 30 km along major routes.

Highlighting Changthang’s growing popularity among visitors for Umling La Pass and the Astronomical Observatory, Gupta said the benefits of the Ladakh Homestay Policy are being extended to local residents to ensure their participation in the tourism economy.

He further underlined the strategic importance of Changthang, noting that the development of the Mudh airstrip would enhance both defence preparedness and civil connectivity. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Changthang will witness unprecedented growth in the coming years,” he asserted.

The Lt Governor emphasized the need to channelize youth energy through sports. With Changthang’s natural potential for ice hockey and winter sports, the administration is planning dedicated facilities to help local talent shine nationally and internationally.

During his stay at Hanley, Gupta patiently heard public grievances regarding healthcare facilities, staff shortages, ambulance requirements, and power supply. He assured residents that all genuine demands would be addressed in a time-bound manner.

Executive Councillor Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, Councillor Ishey Spalzang, and Nominated Councillor Ven Konchok Tsephel raised issues including winter water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission, prefabricated houses for nomads, and installation of 4G BSNL towers in uncovered villages.

The Lt Governor also interacted with Astronomy Ambassadors trained in stargazing, who thanked the UT Administration for creating new livelihood opportunities.

Reiterating his mission, Gupta said,“Every step we take—whether in infrastructure, tourism, or youth empowerment—is directed at securing a prosperous and self-reliant Ladakh. Our goal is to make Ladakh one of the most developed Union Territories in the country.”