Leh: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, highlighted the pivotal role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in accelerating development by supplementing government initiatives in education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, environment, and skill development.
He said CSR investments not only strengthen public-private partnerships but also enhance public trust by creating visible social and economic impact, particularly in challenging terrains like Ladakh.
In a meeting with representatives of HDFC Bank and its implementing partners, including CII Foundation, Citizens Foundation, Himmotthan Society, and Partnering Hope Into Action (PHIA) Foundation, the Lt Governor underlined that CSR funds contribute significantly to sustainable growth and economic stability. He noted that initiatives by leading companies improve the quality of life by providing access to essential amenities, empowering women and youth through skill development, and fostering local entrepreneurship and job creation.
Earlier, the organisations briefed the Lt Governor on their ongoing work in Ladakh, which includes waste collection and management, developing an apricot value chain in Sham region, promoting renewable energy, training women self-help groups in handloom and handicrafts, and supporting vulnerable communities through poverty alleviation, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building initiatives.
The Lt Governor assured all possible support from the Administration to ensure that CSR-linked programmes reach grassroots communities effectively and create long-term impact.
On the sidelines, the Lt Governor also met delegations from different parts of Ladakh. The Ladakh Buddhist Association sought assistance for the construction of a Sarai in Kargil. A group of villagers from Trans-Singge La requested a delimitation exercise to ensure equal representation, while a delegation from Sheynam sought help for fencing community pastures and grazing lands.
The Lt Governor reiterated that CSR-driven partnerships between government, the corporate sector, and civil society are crucial for addressing Ladakh’s unique developmental challenges and building resilient communities. He assured continued support from the Administration to scale up impactful initiatives that empower people, strengthen local economies, and contribute to the Union Territory’s sustainable growth.
