Srinagar: In a landmark administrative move, Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, has approved the appointment of Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) for the five newly created districts, ensuring immediate operationalisation of governance structures.
The decision comes just a day after the creation of five new districts – Nubra, Sham, Changthang, Zanskar, and Drass, increasing the total number of districts in Ladakh from two to seven, marking one of the most significant governance reforms since the region became a Union Territory in 2019.
Swift Appointments to Ensure Immediate Governance
According to an official statement, the move is aimed at:
- Strengthening law and order
- Bringing administration closer to remote populations
- Ensuring quick rollout of governance mechanisms
The Lieutenant Governor directed newly appointed officers to assume charge without delay and work with full dedication toward inclusive development.
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List of Appointed DCs and SPs
The following officers have been assigned key roles in the newly formed districts:
Nyoma (Changthang HQ):
- Nitish Rajora – Deputy Commissioner
- Abbas Jaffari – Superintendent of Police
Nubra (HQ: Diskit):
- Mukul Beniwal – Deputy Commissioner
- Stanzin Losal – Superintendent of Police
Zanskar (HQ: Padum):
- Imkar Rajendra Gundage – Deputy Commissioner
- Rigzen Sandup – Superintendent of Police
Sham (HQ: Khaltse):
- Kunzes Angmo – Deputy Commissioner
- Aijaz Malik – Superintendent of Police
Drass (HQ: Drass-Ranbirpura):
- Imteeaz Kacho – Deputy Commissioner
- Ishtyaq Ahmad – Superintendent of Police
Restructuring Aimed at Grassroots Governance
The creation of new districts follows approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs in August 2024 after extensive consultations.
Three districts—Nubra, Sham, and Changthang—have been carved out of Leh, while Zanskar and Drass have been carved out of Kargil.
Existing districts Leh and Kargil will continue functioning and coordinate with new districts during the transition.
Bringing Governance Closer to People
Highlighting the significance of the move, LG Saxena said the restructuring will:
- Reduce travel distances (often exceeding 300 km for basic services)
- Improve service delivery in remote and far-flung regions
- Strengthen administrative efficiency and law enforcement
He added that remaining subordinate posts and logistical requirements will be filled on priority to ensure smooth functioning.
Economic and Developmental Boost Expected
The establishment of new district headquarters is expected to:
- Generate local employment
- Boost infrastructure development
- Promote entrepreneurship in remote areas
The administration believes this step will act as a catalyst for inclusive and balanced regional development.
Ahead of Amit Shah’s Visit
The announcement comes ahead of a proposed visit by Amit Shah, adding further significance to the timing of the decision.
Calling it a “historic day,” the Lieutenant Governor described the move as a long-awaited response to public aspirations.
Towards a New Governance Framework
Reaffirming the administration’s vision, Vinai Kumar Saxena said the creation of new districts will pave the way for:
- Decentralised governance
- Better public service delivery
- Sustainable and people-centric development
The move is expected to reshape Ladakh’s administrative landscape and strengthen governance for years to come.
