Leh, Mar 13 (KNS) : Vinai Kumar Saxena was sworn in as the fourth Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh on Thursday, vowing to work in mission mode to harness the region’s tourism potential while ensuring sustainable development in its fragile ecosystem.
Administering the oath of office and secrecy to the new LG, Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Justice Arun Palli, officiated at the ceremony held at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS) in Choglamsar. Saxena succeeds Kavinder Gupta, taking charge of the strategically crucial high-altitude UT.
In his first address after being accorded a ceremonial guard of honour by the Ladakh Police, Saxena described Ladakh as the "crown of India" and outlined a vision focused on ground-level governance. Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the appointment, he assured the people that their aspirations would be the administration's guiding light.
"I will visit every village and remote area to understand the problems firsthand and find practical, sustainable solutions," Saxena stated. He identified tourism as a primary economic driver, setting a goal to elevate Ladakh into one of the world's most beautiful and sought-after destinations.
Balancing development with ecology emerged as a key theme of his agenda. The new LG stressed the need for increasing green cover through massive plantation and afforestation drives, coupled with the development of water bodies.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHe also called for an overhaul of urban infrastructure, specifically pointing to the need for improved sanitation and the expansion of sewage treatment facilities across the UT.
Drawing on his extensive experience in corporate governance and his recent tenure as LG of Delhi—where he spearheaded projects like the restoration of the Sanjay Van forest and Yamuna riverfront development—Saxena emphasized a model of "environmentally responsible development."
"As entrusted to me by the Prime Minister, I will ensure the people of Ladakh are never disappointed. We will work in close coordination with all stakeholders to transform this UT," he added.
Earlier, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra read out the warrant of appointment issued by the President of India, following which Saxena signed the charge certificate.
The ceremony, marked by a vibrant cultural performance showcasing Ladakh's rich heritage, witnessed the presence of a high-powered cross-section of dignitaries. Among those in attendance were Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon; MP Ladakh Mohmad Haneefa Jan; His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche; GOC 14 Corps Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla; and former MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal. Top civil and police officials, including DGP Ladakh Mukesh Singh, were also present. (KNS)