Leh, June 20 (JKNS): Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Saturday paid homage to the nation’s fallen heroes, interacted with ITBP personnel and reviewed key cultural and developmental projects in Ladakh, lauding the region’s rich heritage, strategic importance and innovative initiatives aimed at improving local livelihoods and water security.
The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, accompanied the Vice-President during the visits. At the Hall of Fame War Memorial in Leh, the Vice-President paid homage to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces.
He lauded the unwavering commitment of the armed forces to the nation and said that their spirit of “Nation First: Always and Every Time” inspires every citizen with a deep sense of patriotism and gratitude.
The Vice-President appreciated the Indian Army for establishing and maintaining the memorial, which preserves the legacy of courage, valour and sacrifice of India’s soldiers. He also visited the galleries depicting operations during the Indo-Pak and Indo-China wars and noted that they stand as enduring testimonies to the dedication and heroism of the Armed Forces.
Later, the Vice-President visited the sacred Sindhu Ghat near Leh and offered prayers on the banks of the revered River Sindhu. He observed that the Sindhu River remains a timeless symbol of Bharat’s civilizational heritage and cultural unity, inspiring generations through its enduring legacy.
The Vice-President also visited the Pashmina Goat Farm at Upshi and was briefed on the initiatives being undertaken to preserve and promote Ladakh’s unique Pashmina heritage. Appreciating the efforts of the institution, he noted that the Changthangi goats and the world-renowned Pashmina they produce reflect the rich traditions and ingenuity of the people of Ladakh.
He commended the farm’s contribution towards sustainable livestock management and the socio-economic empowerment of local communities, particularly women engaged in Pashmina production and allied activities. The Vice-President appreciated the dedication of scientists, staff and local stakeholders, whose collective efforts are helping strengthen rural livelihoods, enhance women’s economic participation and preserve an invaluable national asset for future generations.
During his visit to Upshi, the Vice-President also inspected the first rock check dam on the Sindhu River, constructed under the Sindhu Jal Samriddhi Abhiyan. Appreciating the eco-friendly and cost-effective initiative, he described it as an innovative and locally adapted solution to Ladakh’s recurring water challenges.
The Vice-President lauded the vision and leadership of the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, for conceptualising and spearheading the initiative. He noted that the pioneering project augments water levels in shallow stretches of the Sindhu River, enabling farmers to irrigate their fields during the critical sowing season. He observed that such sustainable interventions can significantly strengthen water security, support agricultural livelihoods and contribute to the long-term development of the region.
Later in the day, the Vice-President also met with the brave personnel of the 5th Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in Ladakh. He lauded their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s frontiers under some of the most challenging conditions.
The Vice-President is on a three-day official visit to Ladakh from June 19 to 21, 2026. During the visit, he will participate in the International Day of Yoga celebrations on June 21, 2026. (JKNS)
