FM Sitharaman arrives in Ladakh to review key projects

Leh, July 14: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Leh to a warm welcome at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, marking the beginning of a significant multi-day visit to the Union Territory of Ladakh.
She was received by MP (Lok Sabha) Haneefa Jan, Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, LAHDC Leh Chief Executive Councillor Advocate Tashi Gyalson, Director General of Police Dr. S.D. Singh Jamwal, and other senior officials and BJP leaders. The Finance Minister’s Office confirmed her arrival on “X” (formerly Twitter), highlighting the enthusiastic reception by BJP Ladakh karyakartas.
MP Haneefa Jan, who accompanied the Minister, stated: “Delighted to welcome Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to the majestic land of Ladakh. Her presence brings immense hope and inspiration. We look forward to strengthened support for the region’s growth, including budgetary support, banking access, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic empowerment.”
During her visit, Sitharaman will hold discussions with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) and UT administration. She is also set to inaugurate key development projects focused on infrastructure, financial accessibility, and regional connectivity.
A major highlight will be her leadership of a Credit Outreach Program in collaboration with the Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committee (UTLBC) of Ladakh, aimed at boosting financial inclusion and expanding credit access for entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and small businesses.
Underscoring the government’s focus on remote and border areas, the Finance Minister will travel to the Changthang region, including strategic locations like Nyoma, Hanle, and Rezang La, to review development efforts and engage with border communities.
Sitharaman also met with MP Haneefa Jan and former MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal. Additionally, a delegation from LAHDC Leh, led by CEC Advocate Tashi Gyalson, called on her to discuss local development priorities, budget allocations, and the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes.