Leh, May 1: In a historic development for the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Government of India has granted ‘in-principle’ approval for the establishment of a new medical college at Spituk Pharka, Leh, alongside the expansion of the Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) hospital. The combined project is estimated at Rs 785.61 crore and is poised to enhance the healthcare services and medical education in the Union Territory.
The proposal, submitted by the Union Territory administration of Ladakh (UTL), was thoroughly reviewed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which conveyed its in-principle nod, subject to appraisal by the Public Investment Board (PIB) and incorporation of specified observations.
The envisioned project includes a full-fledged academic block for the new medical college and major infrastructure upgrades at SNM Hospital. The development is seen as a pivotal step towards reducing Ladakh’s reliance on outside healthcare institutions and offering local opportunities for aspiring medical students. Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson, hailed the decision and said: “This is a transformative moment for Ladakh. The medical college and upgraded hospital will not only improve access to quality treatment but also enable our youth to pursue medical education right here at home.”
Residents across Leh expressed optimism and pride over the development. Rigzin Dolma, a school teacher from Choglamsar, said that many of their children dream of becoming doctors but can’t afford to study outside Ladakh. “This college will change that,” she said.
Norboo Stanzin, a local shopkeeper in Leh Bazaar, called it a long-awaited move. “We have struggled with referrals to hospitals in Srinagar or Delhi for serious conditions. A better-equipped SNM Hospital is exactly what we need,” he said.
CEC Gyalson extended heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Finance and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda for their “visionary leadership and commitment to the aspirations of Ladakhi people.” Once operational, the project is expected to strengthen Ladakh’s healthcare capacity, reduce medical migration and promote self-reliance in health and education sectors.
