National Panchayati Raj Diwas Celebrated in Leh

Leh, April 24, 2025: The Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Leh today celebrated National Panchayati Raj Diwas with enthusiasm and participation, reaffirming the commitment to grassroots democracy and rural development.

The event was graced by Hon’ble Councillor Shri Phuntsok Nurboo, LAHDC Leh, as the Chief Guest. Also present on the occasion was Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Leh, Shri A.G. Zarger, who addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of community-led development and strengthening of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Ladakh.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by the District Panchayat Officer (DPO), Leh, who also later delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the participation of PRI members and field staff. The event saw an active presence of officers and officials from the DPO Office, ACD Office, Executive Engineer (REW), and Zonal BDO Leh.

As a key highlight, SRMC Supervisors were felicitated for their dedicated contributions towards Swachhata and cleanliness initiatives under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

The DPO also presented an insightful overview of the evolving three-tier Panchayati Raj system in the UT of Ladakh, outlining the functioning of Gram Panchayats, Block Development Councils, and the role of LAHDC as a district-level planning body. He also spoke about Project Tsangda, an innovative initiative aimed at waste management and sustainable rural development in the region.

A minute of silence was observed in solidarity with the victims of the recent Pahalgam attack, expressing empathy with the bereaved families and reaffirming the values of peace and unity.

The event concluded with a collective resolve to further empower Panchayati Raj Institutions and strengthen participatory governance across the Union Territory