Deputy Commissioner Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, convened a crucial meeting on May 19 at the DC Office Conference Hall to address pressing concerns raised by local hotel and guest house associations. The meeting was held in response to a representation received from stakeholders in the tourism sector.

Rigzin Lachic, President of the All Ladakh Hotels and Guest Houses Association, Leh, presented a four-point demand, highlighting the severe impact of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan on Ladakh’s tourism industry.

The meeting focused on key issues affecting the hospitality sector, including a request for an interest-free moratorium on loans until the next financial year. Other points of discussion included the restructuring of loan repayments for properties nearing Non-Performing Asset (NPA) status and the possibility of an economic relief package to offset losses faced during the current season.

Lead Bank Manager Tsering Angmo, along with representatives from various banks, advised the stakeholders to submit a formal representation of their demands, assuring that they would forward it to the appropriate authorities for a positive resolution. DC Leh also assured that the matter would be brought to the attention of the UT Administration for necessary action.

The meeting was attended by key officials and stakeholders, including the Chief Planning Officer, Leh; Lead District Manager, SBI Leh; and managers from all banks operating in the district, including JKDFC and JKSFC. Also present were presidents and executive members of the All Ladakh Hotels and Guest Houses Association, All Ladakh Tour Operators Association, All Ladakh Transport Trade Association, Taxi Union Leh, and Tempo Union Leh.