LEH: Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress of major infrastructure projects being implemented under Central Government schemes, including the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, and the Prime Minister’s Development Package. He also reviewed the status of recruitment drives for gazetted and non-gazetted posts in the Union Territory.
Secretary PWD Michael D’Souza informed that 14 new projects under CRIF have been sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 931 crore, while highlighting land acquisition challenges affecting timely execution.
Chief Engineer PDD Tsewang Paljor briefed the meeting on RDSS implementation under six packages worth Rs 1,216.86 crore, targeted for completion by March 2028. He flagged issues including power purchase liabilities of Rs 396.81 crore payable to the Jammu and Kashmir Power Corporation Limited and the need for funds in 2026–27 to initiate a proposed 5 MW solar power project. Manpower shortages for operations and maintenance were also discussed.
Under PMDP, Administrative Secretary Dr L. Franklin outlined nine major projects, including the Srinagar-Leh 220 kV Transmission Line, the Nimoo-Padum-Darcha Road and the Zoji La Tunnel, with an overall outlay of Rs 21,441 crore earmarked for Ladakh.
The meeting also reviewed recruitment progress. Around 1,385 non-gazetted posts were advertised in 2025 through recruitment boards, with over 900 matriculation and 10+2 level posts already filled. Examinations for 473 graduation-level posts are scheduled for March 2026. Progress on filling gazetted posts through the Union Public Service Commission was also assessed.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government of India for substantial financial support to Ladakh under various schemes. He directed officials to ensure timely execution, maintain transparency and focus on equitable development, particularly in remote and border areas.
Emphasising accountability and efficiency, he called for regular monitoring of projects and expedited recruitment to provide employment opportunities for local youth, reiterating the administration’s commitment to inclusive growth across Ladakh.
