Leh: Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Monday reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to inclusive development, social justice and the holistic development of Ladakh, saying welfare schemes must effectively reach every eligible beneficiary.
Addressing a press briefing in Leh, Athawale said the Government of India remains focused on empowering marginalised communities through social welfare programmes, strengthening social security and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.
The Minister said he heads the Republican Party of India (Athawale), inspired by the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and has been an ally of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance since 2011. He noted that he was first elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2014 and has served as Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment since 2016 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Recently re-elected to the Rajya Sabha for a third consecutive term, Athawale said he would continue working to advance the principles of equality, dignity and social justice.
Highlighting the Centre’s development agenda, he said the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas has strengthened the country’s social welfare framework and accelerated development across remote and border regions, including Ladakh.
Recalling his long association with Ladakh, Athawale said he has always admired the region’s cultural heritage, spiritual legacy and resilient people. Referring to the teachings of Lord Buddha, he remarked that “Buddha stands for peace, not war,” and described Ladakh as a symbol of peace, compassion and harmony. He also expressed satisfaction over the growing awareness of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideals in the region.
The Minister said he reviewed the implementation of several welfare programmes during his visit, including schemes for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, pension beneficiaries, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, old-age homes, de-addiction centres in Leh and Kargil, and the distribution of wheelchairs and other assistive devices. He stressed that welfare schemes should be implemented efficiently so that benefits reach all eligible beneficiaries without delay.
Athawale also highlighted flagship Central schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Lakhpati Didi, Digital India and other social security initiatives, saying they have promoted financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, digital connectivity and sustainable livelihoods.
Appreciating the resilience of Ladakh’s people despite the challenges of high altitude and harsh climatic conditions, he assured continued Central support for infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, livelihood generation and social welfare in the Union Territory.
Paying tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War, Athawale said their courage and patriotism continue to inspire the nation. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to poverty alleviation, social empowerment and balanced development, expressing confidence that Ladakh would continue to witness accelerated growth, stronger social infrastructure and greater opportunities under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
