Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Romil Singh Donk (IAS) chaired a key meeting to address the alarming decline in tourism and the timely allocation of funds for its promotion on July 8. The meeting was convened following an earlier commitment by Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), Adv. Tashi Gyalson, to sanction an additional ₹1 crore for tourism-related initiatives.

The discussion focused on the strategic and timely utilization of the ₹1 crore fund to boost tourism in the region, which has seen a significant dip in visitor numbers compared to the previous year. Participants highlighted the urgent need for intervention to revive Ladakh’s tourism-driven economy.

Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, President of the All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA), presented a detailed proposal for Ladakh’s participation in ITB Berlin 2026 — a prestigious international tourism trade fair scheduled for March next year. She recommended allocating ₹75 lakhs from the proposed fund for ITB Berlin, with the remaining ₹25 lakhs designated for digital and print promotional campaigns. She emphasized the need for early fund release and active coordination with the Department of Tourism to ensure Ladakh’s impactful presence at the global event.

P.T. Kunzang, President of the All Ladakh Tourism Trade Alliance (ALTTA), expressed deep concern over the steady decline in tourism funding since the formation of the Union Territory. He stressed the importance of the tourism sector as the cornerstone of Ladakh’s economy, warning that continued neglect could lead to severe economic repercussions.

DC Romil Singh Donk acknowledged the urgency of the situation and assured the stakeholders of proactive steps to overcome the financial and promotional hurdles. He further stated that a separate meeting would be convened with Hon’ble CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson to address the issue of fund disbursement and long-term planning.

The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Tsewang Gyalson, Assistant Director Tourism Padma Angmo, Assistant Tourism Officer Leh, and presidents and representatives from ALHGHA, ALTOA, and ALTTA.