JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The Union Territory of Ladakh received new leadership on Friday when Vinay Kumar Saxena took the oath of office and secrecy as its fourth Lieutenant Governor. He was administered the oath by Arun Palli during a ceremony held at the Arya Nagarjuna Auditorium of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies in Choglamsar, Leh.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by administrative officials, senior military representatives, religious organizations, and representatives of various institutions. At the beginning of the ceremony, Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra read out the warrant of appointment issued by the President. Saxena then signed the certificate of assumption of office. A contingent of Ladakh Police also presented him with a guard of honor.
The Lieutenant Governor was previously held by Kavinder Gupta. With Saxena’s swearing-in, he officially assumed office.
Speaking to the media after the swearing-in, Saxena expressed his gratitude to Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. He stated that Ladakh is the crown jewel of India and development work will be carried forward in accordance with the aspirations of its people.
Saxena stated that he would soon visit villages and remote areas of Ladakh to understand the local people’s problems, and practical steps would be taken to address them. Describing tourism development as one of his top priorities, he said that special efforts would be made to make Ladakh one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country and the world.
Emphasizing environmental protection, the Lieutenant Governor stated that Ladakh’s ecosystem is extremely sensitive, and therefore, it is essential to maintain environmental balance alongside development. He stated that concrete steps would be taken to plant trees, increase green areas, develop water bodies, and strengthen urban infrastructure.
Mohammad Hanifa Jan, Mohammad Jafar Akhun, senior army and administrative officials, and Ladakh police officers were present at the ceremony. Cultural performances showcasing Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage were also presented during the event.
It is worth noting that Saxena previously served as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and has over three decades of experience in the administrative and social sectors.
