Diplomat Correspondent
Kargil, DD, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, today held a meeting with a delegation led by Mohd Idrees Aba, President of the All Ladakh Students’ Welfare Association, Chandigarh (ALSWAC), to discuss critical issues affecting students from the region.
During the meeting, the ALSWAC delegation raised several pressing concerns. One of the key demands was the establishment of DSSRB recruitment examination centres in cities like Jammu, Chandigarh, Srinagar, and Delhi, where a significant number of Ladakhi students are pursuing higher education. Currently, the absence of such centres forces students to travel to Ladakh — often during winter months when travel becomes logistically challenging and financially burdensome.
The delegation also highlighted delays in the disbursement of scholarships under the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS) and the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). With the new academic session already underway, timely release of these funds is vital for students, particularly those from financially weaker sections, to continue their education without undue hardship.
Another important issue discussed was the introduction of History as a subject in all higher secondary schools in Ladakh, especially in Kargil. ALSWAC, supported by senior research scholars, emphasized that Ladakh’s rich historical heritage should be made accessible to students through formal education. The lack of History as a subject not only distances students from their cultural roots but also hampers their preparation for competitive examinations and broader academic development.
Additionally, the delegation requested that the current reservation policies of the Union Territory of Ladakh for government jobs also be extended to contractual posts.
Hon’ble CEC Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon appreciated the proactive efforts of ALSWAC, particularly acknowledging the Association’s first-ever career counselling programme held from June 19 to 29.DD