INTRODUCTION

The Planning, Development & Monitoring Department (PD&MD) of the Union Territory of Ladakh is an interdisciplinary nodal department responsible for guiding and overseeing the region’s development process. It plays a pivotal role in formulating development plan, conducting project appraisals, and coordinating inter-departmental efforts to ensure efficient implementation of policies and programmes. The Department also serves as the primary liaison with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Government of India on all matters related to developmental planning.

The Department monitors and facilitates the implementation of major development plan, under the Capex UT Budget. It is also entrusted with managing region-specific schemes such as the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and the Vibrant Village Programme, both  aimed at enhancing infrastructure and livelihoods in remote and strategically significant areas.
Integral to PD&MD is the Directorate of Economics & Statistics (DES), which plays a pivotal role within the Planning Department & Monitoring Division (PD&MD), serving as the statistical and analytical backbone of the planning process. The DES functions as the Statistical Authority and the Nodal Agency for the collection, compilation, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of statistical information across all sectors of the state’s economy.
A key responsibility of the Directorate is the estimation of State Income (GSDP). In addition, it undertakes the collection and compilation of data from various departments, conducts NSS & other surveys, publication of Annual Statistical Handbook.
At the district level, District Statistics & Evaluation Offices (DSEOs) function as subordinate offices under DES. These units collect ground-level data, conduct surveys, and monitor the implementation of government schemes—ensuring that feedback and insights are continuously integrated into planning and decision-making.