Ladakh sees improvement in health, edu sector after reorganisation: MHA

Union Territory Ladakh has made notable strides in its health, infrastructure and education sectors since its reorganisation, according to Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, in a written reply to a Lok Sabha question.

Sharing a point-wise table of development statistics before and after the reorganisation, the Minister highlighted key improvements, especially in healthcare. The region, now better equipped to handle everyday healthcare needs and emergencies, has seen a major leap in public health.

Before the reorganisation, Ladakh had 824 hospital beds. This number has more than doubled to 1,554, significantly increasing the region’s capacity to treat patients and manage emergencies. Oxygen beds, crucial for treating respiratory conditions, have also increased from 461 to 1,078, reflecting the healthcare system’s preparedness in a post-pandemic world. The number of ICU beds, essential for intensive care, has grown from 11 to 31, enhancing the region’s ability to handle critical cases. Additionally, the healthcare workforce has expanded, with the number of doctors increasing from 170 to 301.

Another key development is the expansion of Ayushman Arogya Mandir Health and Wellness Centres, which have risen from 6 to 321, providing essential primary health services and wellness programmes across the region.

In the education sector, student enrollments have surged from 46,895 to 54,756, demonstrating a welcoming approach to education. A new initiative, the establishment of 40 astronomy labs, aims to inspire students in the field of astronomy. The region has also introduced 14 central heating systems across schools, ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students even in the colder months.

These developments mark significant progress in Ladakh’s healthcare, education and infrastructure post-reorganisation.