Chief Secretary Joins Great Summer Buddhist Council of Ladakh 2026 Session
22/08/2026
Leh, August 21 (KIP)-The three-day Great Summer Buddhist Council of Ladakh 2026 (Ladakh Mangtro Yarchos Chenmo 2026) commenced today at Ngonpar Gaway Phodang, Matho, with Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, gracing the evening session as the Chief Guest, which focused on the critical theme of “Youth and Social Well-being: Protecting Ladakh from the Menace of Drugs.”
The session brought together school students, Buddhist monks, representatives of sacred places, doctors, experts, police personnel, Nambardars and a large gathering of the public, providing a common platform to deliberate on the growing challenges of substance abuse and the need to collectively safeguard Ladakh’s youth.
The Chief Secretary received a warm welcome on his arrival at the venue. He was accompanied by DGP, Ladakh, Shri Anand and Secretary, School Education, UT Ladakh, Ms. Bhanu Prabha.
The participation of the Chief Secretary highlighted the Administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with religious institutions, educational institutions, healthcare professionals, law-enforcement agencies, community leaders and civil society to address social concerns and promote the well-being of the younger generation.
Speaking on the occasion, Jamyang Namgyal, In-charge, Ladakh Narcotics Task Force, highlighted the legal and regulatory provisions concerning narcotic substances and the need to protect youth from the drug menace. He drew attention to the serious side effects and consequences of drug abuse and expressed concern over the increasing number of drug-related cases being reported in Ladakh, calling for greater awareness and collective preventive efforts.
Following this, Dr. Nordan Odzer, Specialist, addressed the gathering on the need to guide youth towards constructive and positive pursuits. Drawing from recent cases and his professional experience concerning crime and social issues, he highlighted how harmful habits, particularly drug abuse, can become a major factor behind destructive behaviour and criminal activities. He stressed the need for timely intervention, awareness and positive guidance to protect young people from falling into such harmful habits.
The programme also featured vibrant cultural presentations, including traditional folk dances, adding a rich cultural dimension to the gathering and showcasing Ladakh’s diverse heritage.
The Great Summer Buddhist Council of Ladakh 2026, being held over three days, provides a significant platform for spiritual, cultural and social dialogue, bringing together diverse sections of society to reflect on issues affecting the well-being of the people and the future of Ladakh.
The council will continue with a series of discussions and programmes focusing on strengthening community values, social harmony, cultural heritage and the overall well-being of Ladakh.