UT Administration Committed to Building a Self-Reliant and Prosperous Ladakh: LG Kavinder Gupta
Leh: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, reaffirmed the Union Territory Administration’s commitment to creating a self-reliant and economically empowered Ladakh where every citizen can access opportunities for growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the Loan Distribution Ceremony organized by the Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) at the Rural Development Department Hall in Agling, Leh, the Lt Governor emphasized that the vision of Atmanirbhar Ladakh can be realized only through inclusive development, where women, youth, artisans, and marginalized communities are equal partners in progress.
“Economic empowerment is the foundation of self-reliance. Every initiative we take today will shape Ladakh’s future as a model of sustainable development,” he said.
Addressing the beneficiaries and entrepreneurs, Kavinder Gupta described the event as a milestone in Ladakh’s journey toward financial inclusion and economic independence. He appreciated SIDCO’s efforts in implementing schemes that help citizens transition from dependency to entrepreneurship.
Highlighting Ladakh’s growing economic landscape, the Lt Governor shared that over 13,600 MSME units have been established, creating employment for more than 50,000 individuals. Additionally, 147 Industrial Estate Units are now operational, providing new opportunities for local manufacturing and small-scale industries.
He commended SIDCO for empowering weaker sections, Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, minorities, persons with disabilities, and sanitation workers, describing it as “a bridge of opportunity ensuring government schemes reach every deserving citizen.”
The Lt Governor praised SIDCO’s key initiatives, including:
The Virasat Scheme, promoting traditional artisans;
The Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana (AMSY), empowering tribal women through self-employment; and
The Educational Loan Scheme, supporting students pursuing higher and technical education.
Loans under these programmes are provided at concessional interest rates of 4% to 10%, ensuring broad access to credit and promoting entrepreneurship across Ladakh.
Kavinder Gupta informed that in recent Project Implementation Committee meetings, 89 beneficiaries in Leh and 48 in Kargil were approved for loans worth ₹16.17 crore, underscoring the Administration’s commitment to accelerating self-employment and enterprise development in both districts.
He added that 4,188 artisans from Ladakh have been registered under the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, giving traditional craftsmanship new recognition and market access. ‘Brand Ladakh’ showrooms in Leh and Delhi, he noted, are showcasing Made in Ladakh products at the national level. Moreover, SIDCO has provided ₹1.19 crore as seed capital to women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), enabling them to become successful entrepreneurs and role models.
Encouraging youth to become “job creators rather than job seekers,” the Lt Governor urged them to leverage government schemes such as PMEGP, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Start-Up India, and SIDCO’s loan programmes to build innovative ventures that drive the local economy. “Ladakh’s youth have the creativity and courage to redefine the region’s economic identity,” he remarked.
Concluding his address, Kavinder Gupta emphasized that the government’s vision extends beyond financial support. “Every beneficiary must view their loan not just as assistance, but as a responsibility — an opportunity to fulfill their dreams and contribute to Ladakh’s progress. Together, we can build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Ladakh,” he said.
Earlier, SIDCO Managing Director Bhupesh Chaudhary, IAS, highlighted the corporation’s journey since its inception in 2021 and its key role in facilitating loans and nurturing entrepreneurship in the Union Territory.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Senior Managing Director Sonam Norboo, JKAS, who expressed gratitude to the Lt Governor and all dignitaries for their participation and continued support.
Among those present were Secretary Higher Education Bhanu Prabha, IAS; Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk, IAS; and other senior officials and officers.
