Drass, April 29, 2026: Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS) and Ishtiyaq Ahmed Kacho (JKPS) today formally assumed charge as Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Drass, marking a historic moment for the newly created district.
On the occasion, both officers were accorded a warm and grand welcome by the people of Drass, reflecting widespread public enthusiasm and optimism. The reception was led by Councillors Abdul Samadh and Abdul Wahid, officials from different departments including BMO Drass, Naib Tehsildar Drass, Principle GDC Drass, along with religious heads of various faiths, political leaders, students, and members of the general public.
A huge rally was organised from the Taxi Stand to the SDM Office, Drass, symbolising collective joy and unity. The rally witnessed participation from religious leaders, representatives of political parties, schoolchildren, youth, and citizens from across the region.
Addressing the gathering, DC Drass Imteeaz Kacho congratulated the people of Drass for the fulfilment of their long-pending demand for district status, terming it a landmark achievement in the region’s history. He noted that Drass, besides being the world’s second coldest inhabited place, also serves as the Gateway to Ladakh and is the first face of Ladakh for incoming tourists.
Keeping in view the strategic and geographical importance of Drass, the DC emphasised the urgent need for a sustainable and inclusive development plan, ensuring holistic growth while preserving the region’s rich flora, fauna, and wildlife.
He stated that his immediate priorities would focus on strengthening the education, health, and tourism sectors. Highlighting his commitment to educational reform, the DC announced that he would personally visit all schools from Matayen to Kharboo to assess ground realities and initiate necessary measures to improve the quality of education.
Referring to history, he remarked that Drass and Chiktan have traditionally been among the best-performing areas in education in the district and have produced many capable administrators. With guidance from senior officers, including former ADC Kargil Barkat Nizami, he assured collective and sustained efforts towards making Drass a model district in Ladakh.
Seeking public cooperation, DC Kacho appealed for active participation and collective responsibility, stating that sustainable development can only be achieved through strong collaboration between the administration and the people.
Speaking on the occasion, SP Drass Ishtiyaq Ahmed Kacho, JKPS, expressed gratitude to the people for the overwhelming welcome. He termed the day as historic for Drass and assured that the district police will remain accessible, responsive, and people-friendly.
He further stated that the police administration would work closely with the youth by providing guidance, orientation, and support to help them secure a better future. Stressing social responsibility, he reiterated the commitment of the police to make Drass a drug-free district, free from social evils and menaces.
Councillors Abdul Samadh and Abdul Wahid, in their addresses, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the country, including the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh B. D. Mishra, present Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena, the Chief Secretary UT Ladakh, administrative secretaries, religious leaders, political representatives, and the people of Drass for standing united and achieving this historic milestone.
They called upon the public to continue extending full support to the administration for ensuring sustainable, inclusive, and people-centric development of Drass.
