Ladakh must prepare for climate challenges with strong watershed systems: LG
Diplomat Correspondent
Leh, DD, The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta today launched the State Level Watershed Mahotsav under the Watershed Development Component–Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY) 2.0 at the DC Conference Hall, Leh, emphasising community participation, sustainable water management and long-term ecological balance in the cold-arid Himalayan region.
The programme focuses on strengthening water conservation, improving irrigation facilities and optimising land use patterns to enhance agricultural productivity in drought-prone and desert areas.
On the occasion of National Constitution Day, the Lt Governor also administered the Constitution Day pledge, reaffirming commitment to national integrity, faith in the Constitution and protection of its core values.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor highlighted the transformative role of watershed-based planning for Ladakh’s future.
He noted that Ladakh’s unique geography—marked by glaciers, snowmelt-based water systems and extremely limited rainfall—makes every drop of water precious.
In such conditions, watershed development provides a reliable and long-term model for water security, climate-resilient agriculture and livelihood enhancement.
He said the Mahotsav is not merely a government event but a jan-andolan powered by active community participation.
Kavinder Gupta appreciated the involvement of farmers, women self-help groups, youth volunteers, PRI representatives and cultural groups, expressing confidence that communities would contribute through Shramdaan, plantation drives, rejuvenation of traditional water sources and support in new watershed works. Their participation in site selection, design feedback and future maintenance, he said, ensures true community ownership and long-term sustainability of assets.
The Lt Governor also highlighted the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who has repeatedly emphasised that “water conservation is not only a government responsibility but a people’s movement.”
Schemes like Catch the Rain, Amrit Sarovar Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission and PMKSY reflect this commitment.
He affirmed that Ladakh, despite its difficult terrain, remains one of the most dedicated regions in advancing the Prime Minister’s vision of water-secure villages, productive agriculture and a balanced ecology.
Reiterating the UT Administration’s commitment, Kavinder Gupta announced that PMKSY, MGNREGA and Rural Development programmes will be brought together under an integrated model to strengthen water harvesting structures, expand irrigation capacity, reduce soil erosion and support sustainable livelihoods across every panchayat of Ladakh.
He said that Ladakh will continue to strengthen water harvesting structures, expand irrigation capacity, reduce soil erosion and work towards doubling farmers’ income under WDC-PMKSY 3.0.
Calling the Mahotsav especially inspiring for the youth, the Lt Governor said that activities such as awareness rallies, expert interactions, technical demonstrations, Pani ki Pathshala and plantation drives will help young people understand their environmental responsibilities. “The energy and enthusiasm of our youth will shape Ladakh into a water-secure and eco-friendly region,” he said.
The Lt Governor urged everyone to pledge their commitment to protecting water resources, rejuvenating traditional systems and building a clean, sustainable and prosperous Ladakh for future generations.
Earlier, Administrative Secretary, Rural Development Department & Panchayati Raj, Ms Shanshanka Ala, IAS, informed that WDC-PMKSY 2.0 will conclude in 2026, after which WDC-PMKSY 3.0 will be rolled out. She stated that the next phase will place greater emphasis on local techniques to deliver higher benefits and more stable cultivation for farmers.
Earlier, State Coordinator Ms Shahnaz informed that 11 watershed projects—six in Leh and five in Kargil—are currently under implementation in Ladakh. She further apprised that 36 micro-watershed projects are in progress across both districts, focusing on polycarbonate greenhouses, construction of reservoir tanks (dzings), percolation tanks and irrigation khuls, as well as spring and springshed development works in Ladakh.
Among those present in the event were Deputy Commissioner Leh Romil Singh Donk, ADDC Leh Sonam Nurboo, ADC Leh Ghulam Mohd, Directors/HODs of different departments, Block Development Officers, community and watershed members and other officials.DD
