Ladakh moving towards self-reliance through integrated rural development: LG Kavinder
STATE TIMES NEWS
KARGIL: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Monday inaugurated Phase I of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Scheme, developed under the Special Development Package at an estimated cost of Rs 9.97 crore. The project will provide assured irrigation to the remote Sodh region, enhancing agricultural productivity and improving the livelihoods of local farmers.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chairman/CEC Kargil Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Member of Parliament Ladakh Mohd Haneefa Jan, Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd Feroz, Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar, SSP Nitin Yadav, ADC Imteeaz Kacho, Superintending Engineer Hydraulics, Councillor Manzoor Hussain, Executive Engineer I&FC, village elders, representatives, and local residents.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor congratulated the people of Sodh on the completion of the first phase, describing it as a step toward realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He said the project reflects the UT Administration’s commitment to empowering rural communities through modern infrastructure, technology, and sustainable water management. Gupta commended the efforts of officials and engineers associated with the project and reiterated that true development is achieved when the remotest villages are empowered. He added that initiatives promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local are transforming Ladakh’s far-flung regions. The Lt Governor informed that approval for Phase II of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Project has already been granted and emphasized the Administration’s focus on expanding solar lift, sprinkler, and micro-irrigation systems across the Union Territory.
CEC Dr. Jaffer Akhoon expressed gratitude to the Lt Governor, former leaders, and departmental heads for their contributions. He suggested transitioning the project from conventional to solar power to reduce operational costs for farmers. MP Mohd Haneefa Jan urged expediting Phase II, citing the region’s horticultural potential, while Councillor Manzoor Hussain termed the inauguration a historic milestone for Sodh’s development.
Later, the Lt Governor attended the Karakul Sheep Exhibition at Khumbathang, organized under the National Livestock Mission. Praising Ladakh’s herders and scientists, he said the event highlights the Administration’s resolve to strengthen the livestock sector and promote self-reliance through sustainable animal husbandry initiatives.
