Tasaduq Hussain
Srinagar, Nov 1: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday emphasised the urgent need for the conservation and sustainable utilisation of water resources in Ladakh and said the region has vast potential in spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism.
The President of India concluded her two-day visit to the Ladakh region, after attending a civic reception at Sindhu Ghat. During her visit, she engaged with members of local tribal groups and Self Help Groups.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu, highlighted the global spread of Buddha’s message through Ladakh. She underscored the cultural and spiritual significance of the Sindhu River and commended the region’s brave inhabitants.
Expressing her happiness at being at Sindhu Ghat, the President stressed the importance of conserving and properly using the region’s water resources, which stem from its rivers and glaciers. She praised the achievements of the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has facilitated the provision of drinking water to approximately 80 percent of households over the last four years.
Murmu acknowledged the remarkable contributions of Dr Tsering Landol, the region’s first gynaecologist, who has served women’s healthcare for over four decades and received the Padma Bhushan in 2020.
She highlighted Ladakh’s immense potential for spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism, as well as wellness and health tourism, praising the captivating beauty of the region.
President Murmu urged the preservation of tribal communities’ lifestyles in harmony with the environment and encouraged the adoption of the benefits of modern development. “This blend of tradition and modernity is the path to sustainable development and will benefit all citizens, including those of Ladakh,” she said.
Commending Ladakh’s prosperity, particularly the GI Tags awarded to Raktsey Karpro Apricot, Pashmina Wool, and Wood Carving, Murmu said these recognitions are in line with the achievements of Tsering Namgyal, who received the Padma Shri last year for his contribution to advancing wood carving in the region.
The President called upon the people of Ladakh to continue working with enthusiasm in their respective fields to further the region’s growth. She assured the people of the Government of India’s unwavering support and commitment to their progress and development.
Later, the President engaged with members of local tribal groups and Self Help Groups of Ladakh.
