Kargil, Nov 26: Mohd Ali Majaz, Chairman of the Haj Committee Ladakh, recently met with Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for External Affairs, and Aseem R Mahajan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, to advocate for the establishment of a Passport Sewa Kendra (PSK) in District Kargil, UT Ladakh.
During the meeting, Majaz presented a memorandum highlighting the pressing need for a PSK in Kargil, citing significant logistical, financial, and geographical challenges faced by residents in accessing passport services. He particularly stressed the hardships experienced during winter months, when the Zojila Pass remains closed, making travel to Leh or Srinagar nearly impossible. Majaz also emphasized the urgent need for streamlined passport services for Haj pilgrims, students, sportspersons, and job seekers from the region.
Responding to the concerns Kiren Rijiju acknowledged the challenges faced by Kargil residents and assured that the proposal would be pursued on a priority basis. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of Ladakh and ensuring equitable access to essential services for its residents.
Aseem R Mahajan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, committed to expediting feasibility studies for establishing the PSK in Kargil and assured that necessary administrative steps would be taken to bring the proposal to fruition.
Expressing gratitude after the meeting, Mohd Ali Majaz stated, “The establishment of a Passport Sewa Kendra in Kargil will be a game-changer for our district, especially for Haj pilgrims, students, and job seekers. I am thankful for the positive response and assurance from the Union Ministers and the Ministry of External Affairs.”
