Trade, Tourism and Civil Society bodies unite for Ladakh’s future, support Apex Body

LEH: The representatives of nearly 20 trade, tourism, business and stakeholder organisations on Monday unanimously resolved to support the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and its ongoing efforts on issues concerning the future of the Union Territory.

The decision was taken during an ‘All Ladakh Stakeholders Consultation’ held in Leh, which brought together representatives from diverse sectors including the business community, tourism industry, contractors, and stakeholders from the newly created districts. The consultation served as a common platform for various organisations to deliberate on sector-specific challenges, grievances and aspirations.

During the extensive brainstorming session, representatives of participating associations highlighted concerns affecting their respective sectors and put forward suggestions on issues related to Ladakh’s economy, tourism, governance, development and institutional safeguards.

Following detailed deliberations, the participating organisations passed a joint resolution, signed by representatives of nearly 20 associations, expressing collective support for the Apex Body and its initiatives. The stakeholders said the resolution reflects a united voice of Ladakh’s business and civil society organisations on matters of regional importance.

As part of the resolution, the participants also decided to initiate a political outreach programme. A delegation representing the stakeholders will meet leaders of all political parties in Ladakh over the next two to three days to seek their support for the resolution and the initiatives being pursued by the Apex Body.

The stakeholders expressed confidence that political parties would respond positively and extend cooperation towards addressing issues raised by various sections of society.

The organisers said invitations had been extended to political parties for participation in the consultation. While representatives from different sectors attended the meeting, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did not participate. The stakeholders said there could have been reasons for the party’s absence but decided that the delegation would separately meet BJP leaders along with representatives of other political parties to brief them about the consultation’s outcome and seek their support.

The consultation concluded with a commitment by all participating organisations to maintain collective efforts and strengthen coordination among stakeholders to safeguard Ladakh’s economic interests, promote sustainable tourism, address business concerns and contribute towards the overall development of the Union Territory.

The move comes amid continued discussions among Ladakh’s civil society groups and stakeholders over issues related to governance, constitutional safeguards and representation following the region’s transition into a Union Territory.