Leh, Jan. 08: The Commissioner/Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department, UT of Ladakh, Kacho Mehboob Ali Khan presided over a pivotal meeting to bolster tourism promotion, enhance infrastructure in border regions, and commemorate the valor of our armed forces, at the Civil Secretariat, Leh.

The meeting aimed to deliberate on coordination and collaboration strategies, and officials conversed on charting a path for the holistic and sustainable development of tourism in Ladakh. The primary focus of the meeting was to ensure the provision of essential amenities for tourists and explore the untapped potential of border areas/villages like Mushkoo Valley, Kaksar, Chulichan, and Gargardo.

The discussions also focused on the promotion and sustainable development of tourism in these border areas by harnessing the unique attractions the regions’ have to offer. The meeting acknowledged the strategic importance of Mushkoo Valley, Kaksar, Chulichan, and Gargardo and sought ways to leverage them to foster sustainable tourism.

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A notable aspect of the deliberations was the exploration of opportunities in adventure tourism, particularly paragliding and gondola activities in Ladakh. Participants recognized the potential of these activities in enhancing the overall tourist experience and contributing to the economic growth of the region.

Under the Swadesh Darshan initiative, Leh Town and Kargil Town have been selected as focal points for promotional activities by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The Commissioner/Secretary emphasized the need for sustainable infrastructural advancement and the development of amenities in these towns to attract and cater to the growing number of tourists.

During the comprehensive discussions, Commissioner/Secretary, Kacho Mehboob Ali Khan emphasized on the significance of promoting Ladakh as a prime tourist destination while simultaneously addressing the unique challenges faced in the border areas. Strategies could be developed to enhance infrastructure, targeting seamless experience for travellers while maintaining the region’s cultural and ecological integrity.

The Commissioner/Secretary emphasized the need for responsible promotion of adventure tourism, taking into consideration the region’s unique topography and environmental sensitivity. Additionally, discussions centered around the training of resource persons to ensure the safe and enjoyable implementation of paragliding and gondola/ropeway activities.

The Commissioner/Secretary appreciated the Army for their support and understanding of the importance of tourism in border areas and the continued efforts to relax access to the zero points along the LOC/LAC in Ladakh. He stressed on better coordination and timely decisions to catch-on on the momentum to accelerate promotion and development of tourism related infrastructure in the border areas of Ladakh. He also emphasized that the Army’s support is pivotal for responsible and safe tourism activities in the UT of Ladakh.

In conclusion, the Commissioner/Secretary, Kacho Mehboob Ali Khan highlighted the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to tourism development that respects Ladakh’s cultural heritage, preserves its natural beauty, and acknowledges the historical significance of the region.
The meeting was attended by the Director, Tourism Department, Ladakh; Assistant Director, Tourism Department, Leh; and Under Secretary/OSD to the Commissioner Secretary. The Officiating Deputy GOC, Headquarters 8 Mountain Division, Kargil; Bgs. Int., Headquarters 14 Corps, Leh; and Assistant Director, Tourism Department, Kargil joined the meeting virtually.