Locals in Ladakh welcome Centre’s decision to form committe to protect UT’s unique culture

The people of Ladakh welcomed the administration's decision to form the high-powered committee aimed at preserving the region's distinct culture and language.

This decision, according to locals, is another important step toward the region's development. For a long time, the locals have been demanding concrete measures to protect the region's unique culture and language.

"This committee was formed to consider measures for the preservation of the region's unique culture and language, as well as its geographical location and strategic importance," according to the decree.

The committee will also discuss measures to ensure land and job security for the people of Ladakh, according to the decree. It will also discuss measures to empower the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, and Kargil, as well as measures for inclusive development and job creation in the region.

The administration's decision was hailed by the locals as an important step toward the region's development. Ladakh received its first Geographical Indication (GI) tag in December 2022, for the apricot variety 'Raktsey Karpo' grown in the region.

In response to the news, Sham Fruit and Vegetable Growers Marketing Society General Secretary Sakrama Tokdan stated, "Apricot is the largest fruit in Ladakh, and its growth is a factor in the region's economy. Among the nine fruits grown in Ladakh, the Raktsey Karpo Apricot is widely cultivated in both the Leh and Kargil districts."

Apricots are also being promoted as a Kargil One District One Product. The GI tag was promoted by the central government following a series of export promotion programmes by the Agriculture and Processed Food Export Development Authority under the Ladakh apricot brand.  (krishijagran)