PM Modi unveils Rs 3,300 crore projects for Ladakh

Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday virtually inaugurated five development projects worth around ₹3,350 crore covering airport infrastructure and strategic road connectivity in Ladakh, stressing that the region's development is a top priority of the central government.

The projects include a new passenger terminal at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, built at a cost of ₹640 cr. Spread over 23,800 sq mts, the modern terminal is designed to handle 35 L passengers annually.

"Today, another chapter is being added to Ladakh's progress and development. I am happy to be part of this occasion through technology. Several important projects have been inaugurated in Ladakh today," Modi said. "These projects will make travel easier for many people, improve electricity facilities in some areas, increase water availability in others, and strengthen the preservation of our ancient heritage," he added.


Ladakh Leaders Reject China's land claim

Meanwhile, representatives of Ladakh on Thursday condemned and rejected the recent Chinese official statement mentioning Ladakh as part of China. They said Ladakh was never part of China and China remains the "spiritual enemy of Ladakh" because of the forcible exile of Dalai Lama.