Shri Ramdas Athawale Reaffirms Centre’s Commitment to Inclusive Development and Social Justice During Ladakh Visit.

Shri Ramdas Athawale Reaffirms Centre’s Commitment to Inclusive Development and Social Justice During Ladakh Visit.
Leh, July 5, 2026: Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, Shri Ramdas Athawale, addressed a press briefing in Leh today, underscoring the Government of India’s steadfast commitment to inclusive growth, social justice and the holistic development of the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The Minister highlighted the Centre’s continued focus on empowering marginalised communities through effective implementation of welfare programmes, strengthening social security and ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all.
Reflecting on his political journey, Shri Athawale stated that he is the National President of the Republican Party of India (Athawale), a party guided by the ideals and constitutional vision of Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. He recalled that his party joined the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2011 and has remained a committed alliance partner since then. He further informed that he was first elected to the Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra in 2014 and has been serving as the Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment since 2016 under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Recently re-elected to the Rajya Sabha for a third consecutive term in 2026, Shri Athawale said he remains committed to serving the nation with renewed dedication. He remarked that he aspires to continue contributing to nation-building for many more years and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the principles of equality, dignity and social justice envisioned by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
The Minister stated that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India has placed unprecedented emphasis on inclusive development, ensuring that the benefits of governance reach the poorest and most vulnerable sections of society.
He said that the transformative vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas has strengthened the country’s social welfare framework and accelerated development across every region, including remote and border areas such as Ladakh.
Speaking about his long association with Ladakh, Shri Athawale said he has visited the Union Territory on several occasions and has always admired its rich cultural heritage, spiritual legacy and resilient people.
He recalled being invited by local organisations and expressed happiness at returning to the region once again. Referring to the teachings of Lord Buddha, he observed that “Buddha stands for peace, not war,” adding that Ladakh exemplifies the timeless values of peace, compassion, harmony and coexistence. He also expressed pride in the enduring legacy of Dr. B. R.
Ambedkar appreciated the growing awareness of his ideals among the people of Ladakh.
Highlighting the outcomes of his visit, the Minister said he undertook a comprehensive review of the implementation of various social welfare initiatives in the Union Territory. He reviewed demographic data relating to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, pension beneficiaries, welfare measures for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, the functioning of old age homes, the status of de-addiction programmes in Leh and Kargil, and the distribution of wheelchairs and other assistive devices. He stressed that welfare schemes must be implemented effectively so that every eligible beneficiary receives timely assistance without any hindrance.
Shri Athawale further stated that flagship initiatives of the Government of India, including Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Lakhpati Didi, Digital India and several social security programmes, have empowered millions by promoting financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, digital connectivity and sustainable livelihoods. He noted that India’s rapidly growing economy reflects the success of these reforms and has created new opportunities for inclusive and balanced development across the country.
Appreciating the resilience of the people of Ladakh, the Minister said that despite the challenges posed by the region’s high altitude, low oxygen levels and harsh climatic conditions, the people have demonstrated extraordinary courage, determination and perseverance. He assured that the Government of India remains fully committed to supporting the Union Territory through sustained investments in infrastructure, connectivity, social welfare, healthcare, education and livelihood generation to ensure comprehensive and sustainable development.
Paying homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil War, Shri Athawale said their unparalleled courage and patriotism continue to inspire every citizen of the country. He reiterated that the Government of India will continue working with unwavering commitment towards poverty alleviation, social empowerment and equitable development, ensuring that every citizen of Ladakh benefits from the nation’s progress.
Concluding the press briefing, Shri Athawale reaffirmed that the Government of India remains firmly committed to the welfare and aspirations of the people of Ladakh. He expressed confidence that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Territory will continue to witness accelerated development, strengthened social infrastructure and enhanced opportunities for its people, paving the way for a more inclusive, prosperous and self-reliant future.