 Early Times Report
LEH, Nov 26: 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 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, Shri 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. |
