Says Sports Policy includes 4% Job Reservation, scholarships, awards, cash incentives, promotions for outstanding sportspersons of Ladakh
Leh, Jan 3: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, today formally launched the Ladakh Sports Policy in the presence of Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the sports ecosystem of the Union Territory.
Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said that the launch of the policy is not merely the introduction of a new government document, but a firm commitment towards shaping the future of Ladakh’s youth and giving a new identity to the region through sports. He emphasised that sports play a crucial role in building discipline, character, teamwork and resilience, and in modern times have also emerged as a strong medium for social unity and economic opportunity.
Highlighting Ladakh’s unique geographical and climatic conditions, the Lt Governor noted that the youth of Ladakh are naturally resilient, courageous and determined—qualities that align perfectly with the spirit of sports. He expressed satisfaction that since becoming a Union Territory, sports have been accorded top priority by the administration, resulting in Ladakhi athletes performing with distinction at national and international levels.
Gupta said that the Ladakh Sports Policy provides a clear and structured roadmap for developing a strong sports culture from the school level to high-performance sports. The Lt Governor underlined that the policy adopts an inclusive approach, ensuring equal opportunities for all children irrespective of region, background or ability, with special emphasis on women athletes and para-athletes.
A key feature of the policy is the establishment of the Ladakh Sports Council, which will provide a strong institutional framework for coordinated development of sports. The Lt Governor also highlighted that Ladakh is hosting the Sixth Edition of the Khelo India Winter Games this month, calling it a matter of pride for the region. He said the event offers an excellent opportunity to showcase Ladakh’s sports infrastructure, organizational capabilities and unique hospitality to participants from across the country.
Emphasising the potential of sports tourism, the Lt Governor noted that Ladakh’s natural landscape and adventure-friendly environment offer immense possibilities in winter sports, mountaineering, ice sports and traditional games, which can place Ladakh prominently on the global sports map.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor assured full commitment from the administration for effective implementation of the Ladakh Sports Policy and called upon all stakeholders to work together to nurture talent and take Ladakh’s sports ecosystem to the next level. Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, in his address, lauded the launch of the Ladakh Sports Policy and emphasised the administration’s dedication to supporting athletes at all levels.
Earlier, Moses Kunzang, Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, apprised that the Ladakh Sports Policy—developed over a long period—aims to systematically nurture a comprehensive sports culture and physical literacy from school level onwards.
