UT Administration committed to building a Self-Reliant, Inclusive, Prosperous Ladakh: LG Kavinder

UT Administration committed to building a Self-Reliant, Inclusive, Prosperous Ladakh: LG Kavinder
Says economic empowerment is the key to Ladakh’s self-reliance.
Distributes Rs 16.17 crore in loans at SIDCO Loan Distribution Ceremony.
SIDCO enabling people to move from dependency to entrepreneurship.
Asks youth to become job creators, not job seekers
Encourages youth to leverage central sponsored schemes for entrepreneurship.
Leh, Nov 07: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta today reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to building a self-reliant and economically empowered Ladakh, where every citizen has access to opportunities for growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He said that the vision of Atmanirbhar Ladakh can only be achieved through inclusive development, where women, youth, artisans, and marginalized sections are active partners in progress. “Economic empowerment is the key to self-reliance, and every step taken today will shape the future of Ladakh as a model of sustainable development,” he said.
The Lt Governor was speaking at the Loan Distribution Ceremony organized by the Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) at the Rural Development Department Hall, Agling, Leh.
Addressing beneficiaries and entrepreneurs, Shri Kavinder Gupta said that the event marks a significant milestone in Ladakh’s journey towards financial inclusion and economic self-sufficiency. He appreciated SIDCO for successfully implementing several schemes that are enabling people to move from dependency to entrepreneurship.
Highlighting the region’s economic growth, the Lt Governor informed that over 13,600 MSME units have been established in Ladakh, creating employment for more than 50,000 individuals. In addition, 147 Industrial Estate Units are now operational, generating new opportunities for local manufacturing and small-scale industries. He said these developments reflect the determination of Ladakh’s people to contribute actively to the Union Territory’s progress.
The Lt Governor commended SIDCO for playing a pivotal role in promoting economic empowerment among weaker sections, Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, minorities, persons with disabilities, and sanitation workers. He said that SIDCO is not merely a financial institution but a bridge of opportunity, ensuring that government schemes reach every deserving citizen.
Shri Kavinder Gupta lauded SIDCO’s initiatives such as the Virasat Scheme for traditional artisans, the Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana (AMSY) for empowering tribal women through self-employment, and the Educational Loan Scheme to support students pursuing higher and technical education. He noted that loans are being provided at concessional interest rates ranging from 4% to 10%, ensuring wider access to credit and promoting entrepreneurship across Ladakh.
Shri Kavinder Gupta informed that in recent Project Implementation Committee meetings, 89 beneficiaries in Leh and 48 in Kargil have been approved for loan disbursement, amounting to Rs 16.17 crore. He said these numbers demonstrate the Administration’s commitment to accelerating self-employment and entrepreneurship in both districts.
The Lt Governor further mentioned that 4,188 artisans from Ladakh have been registered under the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, giving traditional craftsmanship new recognition and market access. He said that the ‘Brand Ladakh’ showrooms established in Leh and Delhi are helping showcase ‘Made in Ladakh’ products at the national level. Under SIDCO’s initiatives, ₹1.19 crore has also been provided as seed capital to women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), empowering them to become successful entrepreneurs and role models in society.
Addressing the youth, Shri Kavinder Gupta urged them to become job creators rather than job seekers. He encouraged them to take full advantage of government initiatives such as PMEGP, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Start-Up India, and SIDCO’s loan programmes to build innovative ventures that contribute to the local economy. “Ladakh’s youth possess the creativity, courage, and determination to shape a new economic identity for the region,” he said.
Concluding his address, the Lt Governor said that the government’s vision goes beyond financial assistance — it is about ensuring dignity, opportunity, and empowerment for every individual. “Each beneficiary must treat this loan not merely as support, but as a responsibility to fulfill their dreams and contribute to Ladakh’s progress. Together, we can build a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous Ladakh,” he remarked.
During the ceremony, Secretary Bupesh Chaudhary, IAS, Managing Director of SIDCO, in his inaugural address, outlined SIDCO’s journey since its inception in 2021 and its instrumental role in facilitating loans and nurturing entrepreneurship in Ladakh.
Concluding the ceremony, Senior Managing Director Sonam Norboo delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Lt Governor and all dignitaries for their presence and support in making the event a resounding success.
Managing Director SIDCO, Bhupesh Chaudhary, IAS; Secretary Higher Education, Bhanu Prabha, IAS; DC Leh, Romil Singh Donk, IAS; Senior Managing Director SIDCO, Sonam Norboo, JKAS; concerned officers and officials were present during the occasion.