VoL Desk, Nov. 14: After widespread public outcry following the introduction of the Ladakh Industrial Land Allotment Policy 2023, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Advisor to LG Ladakh, addressed public concerns during a press conference in Leh.

In his statements to the media, he emphasized that the fundamental objectives of the policy were geared towards creating employment opportunities for locals, fostering the growth of the local economy, promoting prosperity, and improving the living standards of the local population.

Dr. Kotwal explained the existing land allocation system in Ladakh, where the Local Council (LAHDC) held control over land under Section 42 of the LAHDC Act. He clarified that for UT Administration to initiate projects, they must collaborate with LAHDC to identify suitable sites, following which LAHDC would allocate the land for the intended purpose.

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Highlighting the two categories of land—industrial estate and non-industrial estate—Dr. Kotwal specified that land within industrial estates falls under the jurisdiction of the Industries Department, exclusively available for allotment in the industrial sector. He went on to reassure that the New Ladakh Industrial Land Allotment Policy prioritizes the needs and interests of the local population.

To encourage local investment, the service sector has been reserved exclusively for locals, acknowledging their limitations in capital and technology. This, he noted, serves as an avenue for locals to participate in economic activities, especially given the challenges they face in the competitive market.

In the manufacturing sector, preference is given to local entrepreneurs over non-locals when establishing plants in Ladakh. However, Dr. Kotwal acknowledged the economic challenges of manufacturing in the region due to factors such as distance, lack of skills, and limited capital among locals.

Additionally, he underscored the environmental concerns, stating that Ladakh aims to be a carbon-neutral UT, discouraging manufacturing activities that may result in pollution.

The policy further outlines priority sectors within manufacturing, including handloom, handicrafts, pashmina, solar components manufacturing, dairy product processing units, and food processing/agro-based industries. Specific reservations are also mentioned for women (single mothers and widows) and specially-abled individuals, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities within these sectors.