Chief Secretary Sh. Ashish Kundra undertakes public outreach and reviews key development Works in Ladakh
Leh, January 03, 2026: Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, IAS, undertook his first official visit today to review developmental initiatives and strengthen public outreach across Likir, Alchi, and Leh, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to participatory governance, heritage conservation, and sustainable development.
The visit began with the Chief Secretary’s arrival at Likir Sub-Division, where he was accorded a warm welcome by the villagers. During a Public Darbar, the Nambardar highlighted Likir’s unique identity as a village renowned for its traditional pottery art and crafts. Residents raised several issues, including extension of abadi land in view of population growth, making the SDM office a fully functional sub-division, strengthening infrastructure and medical facilities at the village hospital, and developing a memorial park, gym, and library in remembrance of Ashok Chakra awardee Naib Subedar Tsetan Mutup for the benefit of students and youth. Demands for a pottery centre for young artists and a multi-purpose stadium were also placed before the Chief Secretary.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Ashish Kundra assured that Likir would soon be declared a pottery craft village and stated that he would extend full support, to the best of his capacity, in addressing the genuine demands of the villagers. He also assured support for women of the village who had learned training in tailoring to procure tailoring machines. He assured that hospital requirements would be reviewed in accordance with population needs. Sharing his personal experience, the Chief Secretary remarked that despite visiting many countries, he had never witnessed natural beauty and serenity comparable to Ladakh, describing his first visit as truly memorable and assuring his best efforts to fulfil the aspirations of the people.
Following the interaction, the Chief Secretary inspected exhibitions of traditional pottery, handicrafts, tailoring, wood carving, wool weaving, crochet work, and other indigenous arts, appreciating the craftsmanship and cultural heritage preserved by the villagers.
Thereafter, Shri Ashish Kundra visited the ancient Alchi Monastery, where he inspected centuries-old paintings and preserved heritage assets. He enquired about conservation measures, protection planning, and the authenticity of the artworks, and interacted with monks regarding initiatives to preserve the monastery’s religious and cultural legacy.
The Chief Secretary later visited the Nimoo–Bazgo Hydroelectric Power Project at Alchi and inspected the power station’s machinery, monitoring systems, and control room. NHPC officials briefed him through a detailed presentation and video on sustainable power development, balanced energy security, and the use of modern technology suited to Ladakh’s fragile ecology, emphasizing the importance of continued administrative support.
During the course of the tour, Shri Ashish Kundra also paid obeisance at Gurudwara Shri Pathar Sahib at Phyang, which is constructed, managed, and maintained by the Indian Army.
In the later part of the day, the Chief Secretary held a Public Darbar at Ibex Colony, Leh, where residents raised issues related to land allotment for the newly established colony, lack of basic facilities, absence of stamp authority for the village head, and heating problems in the committee hall. While appreciating the government’s efforts under the Jal Jeevan Mission for ensuring adequate water supply, similar concerns regarding land and infrastructure were also raised by representatives from Skalzangling.
Responding to the issues, the Chief Secretary assured the public that every possible effort would be made to address their needs, emphasizing that well-planned and well-maintained urban areas and their surroundings are essential as they represent the face of the city for residents and visitors alike.
Shri Romil Singh Donk DC Leh, Senior officers from the district administration and concerned departments were present throughout the visit to ensure timely follow-up and resolution of the issues raised by the public.
