Leh, June 03: In a historic move to promote linguistic diversity and strengthen regional identity, the Union Territory of Ladakh has officially recognised Hindi, Bhoti, Urdu, Purgi, and English as its official languages. The announcement was formalised through a Gazette notification issued on June 02, following the promulgation of the Ladakh Official Languages Regulation, 2025 by the President of India.
Passed under Article 240 of the Constitution and read in conjunction with Section 58(2) of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the regulation marks a significant step in both administrative streamlining and cultural preservation. While all five languages now hold official status, English will continue to serve as the primary medium for official correspondence and inter-departmental communication, ensuring uniformity and clarity in governance across the Union Territory. Crucially, the regulation also empowers the Administrator of Ladakh to actively promote and develop other regional languages that are deeply embedded in the area’s cultural fabric. Languages such as Shina, Brokskat, Balti and Ladakhi have been specifically acknowledged for future development and support.
To institutionalise these efforts, the administration has proposed the establishment of an Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages—a dedicated body that will facilitate the documentation, preservation, and promotion of Ladakh’s diverse linguistic traditions through research, education, and cultural programming. The announcement has been widely welcomed by local communities, educationists, and cultural activists, who view it as a progressive stride toward inclusive governance and regional empowerment.
Yangchan Dolma, nominated women councillor, called it “a historic day for all women”, noting that the official recognition of Bhoti and Purgi is a long-overdue validation of the region’s indigenous voices. “I urge the women of Ladakh to take active roles in public life. This is our time to lead and preserve our heritage,” she said.
Experts believe the regulation could have long-term benefits in strengthening education, cultural awareness, and governance. Linguistic experts have praised the balanced approach—prioritising administrative functionality through English, while honouring the living languages spoken across Ladakh’s valleys. The move is seen not only as a gesture of cultural respect but also as a strategic measure to bolster social cohesion and enhance the visibility of marginalised linguistic communities.
