STATE TIMES NEWS
KARGIL: The Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is prioritizing the development of border areas, the preservation of Ladakh’s cultural heritage, and the strengthening of India’s strategic frontiers. This was emphasized by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, while addressing the public after inaugurating the Darchik Cultural Centre, a landmark facility established under the Indian Army’s Operation Sadbhavana.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior Army officials including Maj Gen Dinesh Kumar Singh, Chief of Staff 14 Corps; Maj Gen K. Mahesh, GOC 8 Mountain Division; Brig Satyakam Dabas; Brig Dev Panwar; Brig Virendra Singh Salaria; and several other officers, along with Deputy Commissioner Kargil Rakesh Kumar and SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav.
In his address, the Lt Governor highlighted that the Darchik Cultural Centre is “not just an infrastructure project, but a symbol of India’s commitment to preserving the unique heritage of the Dard Aryan community.” He said the initiative reflects the Central Government’s broader vision of empowering border populations, strengthening grassroots cultural identity, and creating sustainable opportunities for local youth.
He noted that under the guidance of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the morale and readiness of the armed forces have significantly improved, contributing to the peaceful environment essential for development projects in border regions. The Lt Governor praised the Army’s continuous support for community welfare, citing projects such as the Indus View Point in Batalik, Captain Manoj Pandey (PVC) Stadium in Garkone, and the Kalubar War Memorial.
Outlining the UT Administration’s developmental vision, he stressed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, developing skilled manpower, and boosting tourism and business opportunities. He emphasized Ladakh’s immense cultural and tourism potential, especially in historically rich areas like Kargil.
The Lt Governor said the Aryan Valley holds global importance for its ancient ethnic lineage and rare cultural expressions. The new Cultural Centre aims to preserve traditional music, dance, attire, language, and folklore while promoting cultural tourism and local livelihoods. He encouraged the community to use the centre as a “living cultural space” by organizing workshops, festivals, youth training programs, and research collaborations.
Kavinder Gupta also launched Community Radio Stations at Partapur and Tyakshi, enhancing communication in remote regions of Nubra Valley, and unveiled the Param Vir Chakra Comic Series in the Dardiarya/Brokskat language. He felicitated local contributors for their cultural efforts and concluded by praising all stakeholders for safeguarding the cultural identity of the Aryan Valley while fostering peace and sustainable development.