PMDP-2015: Ladakh gains Rs 21,441 Cr for development projects
Ladakh’s annual budget allocation increased to Rs. 5,958 Cr
Sindhu Central University interim campus construction underway
Jammu, Aug 05: Since the removal of Article 370 in 2019, the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh has witnessed significant progress in various sectors, driven by increased cooperation from the Central Government and targeted developmental initiatives. The removal of Article 370 granted Ladakh the status of a Union Territory, allowing it to pursue development independently.
Ladakh benefits from nine out of sixty-three projects under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP-2015), with a total allocation of Rs. 21,441 crores. Two projects are completed, six are underway, and one may be replaced. The annual budget allocation for Ladakh has been significantly increased to Rs. 5,958.00 crores from 2020-21 to 2023-24.
The Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) has been established with an equity capital of Rs. 25 crore to promote infrastructure and industrial development. The Sindhu Central University interim campus is being set up at Government Degree College Khaltse, with approach road construction in progress. The construction of a 170-bedded hospital in Kargil is complete and operational. Bed capacity in the region has increased from 842 in 2019 to 1594 in 2023, with significant increases in oxygenated and pediatric ICU beds. The National Institute of SOWA-RIGPA has been functional in Leh since November 2020 to revive traditional medicine systems.
Educational initiatives include a new degree college, ICT labs in 170 schools, and 70 smart classrooms. Sports infrastructure developments feature astroturf football stadiums, synthetic tracks in Leh and Kargil, and state-of-the-art ice hockey rinks. Energy projects include the establishment of mini hydro projects, the completion of the Srinagar-Leh 220 KV transmission line, and the approval of solar power projects.
Infrastructure development has seen the construction of 823.42 km of roads, helipads, and hangars, the procurement of snow clearance machinery, and the establishment of cold storage facilities. Tourism and livelihood enhancements include the opening of new tourist and trekking routes, development of the Changthang area, and integrated solid waste management. Policies for sustainable development include the notification of sustainable industrial and e-vehicle policies, along with the installation of 267 mobile towers. The New Ladakh Home Stay Policy 2023 aims to empower local communities and promote tourism.
In terms of women empowerment, the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) has a center in Leh with a sub-center in Kargil, training over 2000 women. Expansion plans have been approved with a budget of Rs. 2.96 crores for various skills and crafts.
