Says region-specific strategies with modern tech needed for Ladakh’s growth
The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, said that the rapid growth and transformation witnessed in Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu stand as a shining reflection of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s vision for inclusive and sustainable development. He noted that the Union Territory has emerged as a model of progress with modern infrastructure, thriving tourism, women-led enterprises, and improved public services, embodying the Centre’s commitment to balanced regional growth and people-centric governance.
The Lt Governor of Ladakh stated this on the conclusion of his three-day visit to the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu after reviewing a series of flagship projects and institutions. He said the visit had been “highly impressive and inspiring,” adding that Ladakh too would adopt similar people-centric models of growth in health, education, and infrastructure.
The Lt Governor visited the upcoming 300-bedded Hospital at Marwad, Nani Daman, spread over 26,125 sq. mt. with a built-up area of 42,000 sq. mt. He reviewed its world-class facilities, including OPDs, trauma centre, imaging services, labour and delivery units, dialysis units, ICUs, seven modular OTs, physiotherapy centres, and deluxe rooms. Supporting infrastructure, such as dormitories, utility blocks, a modern post-mortem unit, and systems like pneumatic tubes, nurse call, and biomedical waste management, reflects the Modi Government’s priority of providing modern, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all.
The Lt Governor also visited the Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) in Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. The state-of-the-art digital hub monitors real-time learning outcomes, student and teacher attendance, and syllabus progress. It has transformed governance in education, with the UT rising from the bottom five in NAS 2021 to the top five in PARAKH 2024. The Lt Governor noted that this technology-driven model could be replicated in Ladakh, ensuring data-based governance and improved learning outcomes in remote areas.
The Lt Governor also reviewed the newly constructed Panchayat Ghars in Antiyawad, Ghelwad, Somnath, and Varkund, underlining the government’s thrust on strengthening grassroots democracy. He further visited the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Daman and the Engineering College at Varkund, both key institutions that will provide new opportunities for youth and promote skill-based, industry-relevant education.
The Lt Governor emphasised that the Modi Government’s focus on health, education, connectivity, and youth empowerment is clearly visible in Daman’s transformation. He added that Ladakh would benefit by drawing lessons from these models, particularly in sectors critical to regional growth.
“Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu’s development journey is a testament to the Centre’s commitment to inclusive growth. Ladakh too will embrace this vision to ensure holistic and people-first development,” he said.
While appreciating the progress in Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, the Lt Governor also shared his concerns regarding Ladakh’s unique developmental challenges. He highlighted the need to strengthen healthcare facilities in high-altitude regions, enhance digital connectivity, ensure quality education in remote villages, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for young people and women. He emphasised that Ladakh requires region-specific strategies, combining modern technology with local needs, to bridge gaps in infrastructure and services.
