Kargil: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, today inaugurated Phase I of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Scheme, developed under the Special Development Package at an estimated cost of ₹9.97 crore.
The project will ensure assured irrigation for the remote Sodh region, boosting agricultural productivity and farmers’ income.
The inaugural event was attended by Chairman/CEC Kargil Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Member of Parliament Ladakh Mohd Haneefa Jan, Executive Councillor Kacho Mohd Feroz, Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar, SSP Nitin Yadav, ADC Imteeaz Kacho, Superintending Engineer Hydraulics, Councillor Manzoor Hussain, Executive Engineer I&FC, village elders, representatives, and residents.
Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor congratulated the people of Sodh on the completion of the project’s first phase, calling it a step toward realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He said the project reflects the UT Administration’s commitment to empower rural communities through improved infrastructure, technology, and sustainable water management.
Gupta lauded the efforts of officials and engineers associated with the project and reiterated the Prime Minister’s vision that true development is achieved only when the remotest villages are empowered. He added that initiatives promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local are transforming far-flung regions like Sodh.
The Lt Governor informed that approval for Phase II of the Sodh Lift Irrigation Project has already been accorded and emphasised the Administration’s focus on expanding solar lift, sprinkler, and micro-irrigation systems across Ladakh.
CEC Dr Jaffer Akhoon expressed gratitude to the Lt Governor, former leaders Qamar Ali Akhoon, Kacho Ahmad Khan, and Feroz Khan, as well as departmental heads, for their contributions. He proposed transitioning the project from conventional to solar power to make operations more economical for farmers.
MP Mohd Haneefa Jan urged the LG to expedite Phase II, highlighting the region’s potential for horticulture once irrigation becomes fully functional. Area Councillor Manzoor Hussain also expressed gratitude, calling the inauguration a historic milestone for Sodh’s development.
Later, the Lt Governor attended the Karakul Sheep Exhibition at Mini Stadium in Sankoo, organised under the National Livestock Mission. Commending the participation of progressive farmers and scientists, he said the exhibition reflects the hard work of Ladakh’s herders and the Administration’s commitment to strengthening the livestock sector.
He praised the farm team, scientists, and herders for conserving and improving the Karakul breed, noting that through the National Livestock Mission, the Administration aims to make every Ladakhi family self-reliant by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in animal husbandry.
Reaffirming his vision for Ladakh’s rural transformation, the Lt Governor said, “Our farmers and herders have shown that with the right direction and technological support, remarkable results are possible even in the most challenging terrains. Together, let us make Ladakh a model of agricultural and livestock development — a true symbol of innovation and self-reliance.”
