Ladakh administration to preserve ancient monasteries: LG Kavinder Gupta

Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta on Thursday said that the Ladakh UT administration is firmly committed to the preservation, protection, and holistic development of ancient monasteries, ensuring conservation of their rich heritage, promotion of traditional art and architecture, and safeguarding these spiritual institutions for future generations.

To mark the beginning of New Year 2026, the Lieutenant Governor visited the iconic Hemis Monastery and the Maitri Geriatric Home at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), Devachan Campus, Choglamsar. The visit was marked by prayers, interaction with senior citizens, and a message of peace, compassion and inclusive development.

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At Hemis Monastery, founded in 1630 by Staktsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso, Kavinder Gupta was warmly welcomed by Head Abbot Nawang Jigmet and Secretary Dr. Ishey Namgyal. He visited the Shrine rooms and sought blessings.

Dr. Namgyal and Chakzot briefed him on the monastery headed by His Holiness Gyalwang Drukpa, an environmentalist leading Naropa Fellowship, Druk Padma Karpo School, and Live to Rescue Animal Shelter initiatives in Ladakh. He sought the intervention of Lt Governor for constructing a Sarai in Srinagar exclusively for Ladakh patients on the land possessed by Hemis Monastery.

At Hemis Monastery, the Lieutenant Governor offered prayers and sought blessings for peace, prosperity, and the overall development of Ladakh and its people. Interacting with the monks and devotees, he highlighted Ladakh’s rich spiritual heritage and its role in promoting harmony, mindfulness, and universal human values.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that the UT Administration is making sincere efforts to bring the sacred Buddha Relics to Ladakh for public Darshan, enabling devotees and people from across the region to receive spiritual inspiration and strengthen Ladakh’s identity as a global centre of Buddhism and peace. He said such an initiative would not only have deep spiritual significance but would also promote cultural tourism and inter-faith understanding.

Later, the Lieutenant Governor visited the Maitri Geriatric Home, which is home to 40 elderly people from across Ladakh receiving care, food, and free medical treatment.

Ven. Sanghasena, MIMC Founder, apprised of UT Administration’s proposal to jointly operate a 50-capacity old age home at Saboo, funded by the Ministry of Social Justice, requesting heating and drinking water facilities.

The Lieutenant Governor spent time with the inmates and celebrated the New Year with senior citizens. He interacted warmly with the elderly residents, extended New Year greetings, and appreciated the selfless service rendered by the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre in caring for senior citizens with dignity, compassion, and love.

Addressing the gathering, Kavinder Gupta said that senior citizens are the foundation of society, carrying wisdom, values, and life experiences that guide future generations. He reiterated the commitment of the UT Administration to ensure the welfare, healthcare, social security, and respect of the elderly.

The Lieutenant Governor also appealed to the youth of Ladakh to spend time with senior citizens, learn from their experiences, and contribute towards building a compassionate and inclusive society.