Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta announced that the Union Territory is bolstering its healthcare system by modernizing hospitals, introducing advanced medical equipment, and setting up a new medical college, with a particular focus on reaching residents in high-altitude and remote areas.
As part of these initiatives, three Tesla MRI machines valued at approximately Rs 26 crore have been installed at the Kargil district hospital. Both Leh and Kargil district hospitals are being upgraded with modern facilities to improve healthcare access across the Union Territory.
Ladakh currently has 32 primary health centres and 288 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. To address challenges posed by high-altitude conditions, oxygen chambers are being installed at multiple healthcare facilities to provide critical care. The upgrades also incorporate telemedicine capabilities, allowing doctors at district hospitals to consult patients at remote Community Health Centres and Primary Health Centres.
In addition to facility enhancements, a new medical college is planned in Ladakh at an estimated cost of Rs 786 crore. About 85% of the seats will be reserved for Scheduled Tribes, with all students from the region. Land for the project has been acquired, and construction is expected to begin soon.
These developments were highlighted during a meeting between Lieutenant Governor Gupta and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where discussions centered on public welfare, infrastructure, connectivity, tourism, and inclusive growth in the Union Territory.
Ladakh’s health budget currently stands at 8.76% of the total, higher than the national average of 8%, underscoring the region’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services and access.
