Rural Development Department Observes ‘World Toilet Day 2024’ in Leh .

Leh, November 19, 2024: The Rural Development Department, UT Ladakh, organized an event to commemorate ‘World Toilet Day’ at the DC Office Conference Hall, Leh, on November 19. The program highlighted the importance of sanitation and hygiene and celebrated the department’s milestones in improving public sanitation facilities in Ladakh.
The event was graced by Principal Secretary Sanjeev Khirwar (IAS) as the Chief Guest and Administrative Secretary, Rural Development Department, UT Ladakh, Shashanka Ala (IAS) as the Guest of Honor. Other dignitaries included Director RDD UT Ladakh Syed Sajjad Qadri (JKAS),Additional District Development Commissioner Sonam Nurboo (JKAS), District Panchayat Officer Leh Junaid Amin Bhat, and Block Development Officer Leh Samina Khatoon. BDOs and Panchayat Inspectors from various blocks participated in person and virtually through video conferencing.
A key highlight of the program was the virtual inauguration of the Community Sanitary Complex (CSC) at Kaskarik Choskor (A) by the Chief Guest, Principal Secretary Sanjeev Khirwar. Speaking on the occasion, District Panchayat Officer Junaid Amin informed the audience about the department’s efforts in developing CSCs to ensure proper sanitation facilities. He highlighted that 460 CSCs have been constructed across Ladakh, of which 366 are functional and 94 are under development, with completion expected by the end of the financial year.
Director RDD UT Ladakh Syed Sajjad Qadri commended the efforts of the department’s staff at the grassroots level and encouraged them to continue working with dedication to achieve further development. He emphasized the importance of consistent efforts by all Block Development Officers and departmental staff to achieve and sustain sanitation goals.
In his remarks, Chief Guest Principal Secretary Sanjeev Khirwar congratulated the department for achieving 75% of its target and urged them to complete the remaining projects promptly. He emphasized that this initiative represents a significant step toward realizing the vision of a cleaner India and highlighted the critical link between hygiene and health outcomes.
Guest of Honor Shashanka Ala congratulated the department on its achievements and stressed the importance of documenting ongoing work for effective monitoring and reporting on public platforms.
ADDC Sonam Nurboo underscored the importance of sustainable local toilet systems in rural areas of Ladakh. He also pointed out the challenges of maintaining urban sanitation facilities and emphasized the need for a robust mechanism for their upkeep.
The program also celebrated the contributions of beneficiaries of the Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin, who were felicitated by the Chief Guest & sanction letters were handed over to them. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Block Development Officer Leh Samina Khatoon, who acknowledged the efforts of all participants and stakeholders in making the event a success.
The Rural Development Department reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sanitation and hygiene across Ladakh and contributing to a healthier and cleaner India.