In a significant development for the region, Ladakh, India’s largest union territory, has witnessed the creation of five new districts, bringing the total number of districts to seven. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, was met with enthusiasm by local residents, who have long sought this administrative restructuring. The newly formed districts are Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang.
Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist and member of the Leh Apex Body, expressed his gratitude to the government for fulfilling this long-pending demand. In a video message on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “I am thankful to the home minister and Modi government on behalf of the people of Ladakh for announcing five new districts to Ladakh which was a long-pending demand of the people, especially the Zanskar region.” He further emphasized the importance of ensuring that these new districts are not merely administrative units but also democratic entities with autonomous district councils, similar to those in Leh and Kargil.
While expressing his appreciation, Wangchuk also reminded the government of its earlier promise to extend the sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution to Ladakh. This schedule grants special administrative and legislative powers to tribal areas, and Wangchuk stressed the need for the government to address the primary demand of the people for safeguards to ensure their well-being. He stated that the locals’ struggle would continue until their demands are met.
Previously, Ladakh, spanning 86,904 square kilometers and bordering China and Pakistan, consisted of only two districts: Leh and Kargil. Despite its vast size, it is the second least populated union territory in India, with a population of 2.74 lakh according to the 2011 census. The region was carved out of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir and declared a union territory on August 5, 2019, along with the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to the state.
The creation of these new districts is expected to facilitate better governance and promote the region’s prosperity. Prime Minister Modi highlighted this aspect, saying that the decision would bring services and opportunities closer to the people. Home Minister Amit Shah echoed this sentiment, stating that the Modi government is committed to creating ample opportunities for the people of Ladakh. The new districts are expected to receive more focused attention, leading to improved infrastructure, development initiatives, and better access to essential services.
