Leh, February 28: Two delegations—one led by Nyoma Councillor Ishey Spalzang and another representing unemployed physical education youth—called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat to discuss their concerns and seek intervention.
Councillor Ishey Spalzang, leading the Nyoma delegation, raised several pressing issues, including the denotification of the new field firing range at Nyoma, the upgradation of Nyoma block to a full-fledged sub-division, the opening of the Changthang-Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage route, and the resumption of border trade between India and China. The delegation also requested the establishment of an Amchi Clinic at Hanley village and the appointment of medical specialists for Nyoma, along with the enrolment of locals as porters by the Army and GREF and the promotion of tourism activities in Demchok, Koyul, and Dungti villages.
Addressing the delegation, the Lt Governor acknowledged the crucial role of the Army in national security while emphasizing the contribution of civilians in safeguarding the nation. He directed DC Leh to engage with the villagers of Nyoma to find a balanced solution that serves both the Army and the local population. While the demands related to the opening of the Changthang-Kailash Mansarovar route and border trade with China fall under the purview of the Central Government, the Lt Governor assured that other concerns would be reviewed for necessary action. He also reaffirmed the UT Administration’s commitment to developing Changthang as a ‘Pashmina Hub’ to support local livelihoods.
In a separate meeting, a delegation led by Ali Akbar Khan represented unemployed physical education graduates awaiting job opportunities. The delegates pointed out that recruitment in the Youth Services and Sports (YSS) Department has not taken place in the last eight years, leaving many qualified candidates without employment. They urged the Lt Governor to fill vacant posts in the department and to engage physical education teachers on an outsourcing or contractual basis under the Samagra Shiksha scheme.
OSD to Secretary Sports, Dr Thakchos, apprised the Lt Governor about existing challenges in recruitment, including the Rehbar-e-Khel (ReK) policy, under which employees become regular staff after completing seven years of service. He also informed the HLG about the availability of vacant Physical Education Lecturer posts. Taking note of the concerns, the Lt Governor directed the YSS Department to conduct a thorough review of vacant posts and advertise them at the earliest to ensure employment opportunities for local aspirants.
