Leh (Jammu and Kashmir), July 18: Kavinder Gupta was officially sworn in as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh on Friday, and in his first public remarks, promised unified development and pledged to make Ladakh one of the world’s top tourism destinations.
“We will work unitedly for the development of Ladakh. There has been a lot of discrimination against Ladakh. We want to take Ladakh to a stage where it will be named among the top states for tourism in the world,” Gupta told reporters after the oath-taking ceremony.
A New Chapter for Ladakh
Gupta replaces Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), who resigned earlier this month. His appointment was formally made by President Droupadi Murmu on July 14, following the recommendation of the Union Government. This marks a significant leadership change in the strategically important Union Territory.
Gratitude and Vision
After his appointment, Gupta expressed his gratitude to President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and BJP party workers, stating he would work to live up to the Centre’s expectations.
“The national leadership has a lot of expectations, and I will try to fulfil those expectations,” Gupta said at a felicitation event in Jammu. “To my fellow party workers: treat the party as your own, live its principles.”
Background: From Brigadier to Governor
Outgoing LG BD Mishra, 85, is a decorated Indian Army veteran and former Commander of the Counter Hijack Force (NSG). He was appointed Ladakh’s second LG in February 2023, after serving as Governor of Arunachal Pradesh from 2017 to 2023.
Mishra succeeded Radha Krishna Mathur, Ladakh’s first LG following its creation as a Union Territory on October 31, 2019.
Looking Ahead
Gupta’s tenure begins at a time when Ladakh’s residents are demanding greater autonomy, statehood, and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. His promise of unified development and global tourism recognition comes as Ladakh balances ecological concerns, strategic military importance, and aspirations for democratic representation.
Key Points:
- Kavinder Gupta is Ladakh’s 3rd LG since 2019.
- Vows to end discrimination and boost tourism.
- Promises inclusive development and unity.
- Succeeds BD Mishra, a retired brigadier and NSG commander.