Ladakh delegation meets Rijiju

A delegation of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) led by its chairman Tashi Gyalson met the Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju.

During the meeting, the delegation discussed a range of important issues concerning the strengthening and implementation of welfare schemes across Ladakh. They primarily urged the minister to expedite the establishment of an independent Ladakh Development Finance Corporation by formally bifurcating Ladakh from the existing Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Finance Corporation.

Additionally, they emphasised on the need for enhanced allocation of minority welfare funds, particularly targeting sectors such as education, handicrafts and trade. They requested additional Grants-in-Aid to uplift these sectors and proposed organising a dedicated exhibition and loan mela awareness camp in the upcoming season to showcase the rich artisan products of Ladakh at both regional and national platforms, with a strong push for greater marketing and financial support for local entrepreneurs.

The delegation also advocated for a special financial package for unemployed youth to develop entrepreneurship and emphasised on introducing concessional loan schemes aimed at fostering self-employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The delegation expressed gratitude to the minister for his intervention with the Ministry of Finance and NABARD, which led to the fulfilment of longstanding demands concerning the Ladakh State Cooperative Bank. In response, the minister assured the delegation that their concerns and proposals would be given due consideration and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of minority communities in Ladakh.