New Delhi, June 20: On the second day of his official visit to the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan toured several significant sites, including the Hall of Fame war memorial, Indus Valley, a Pashmina goat farm in Upshi, and the first rock check dam built on the Indus River. He was accompanied by the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinay Kumar Saxena.
At the Hall of Fame war memorial in Leh, the Vice President paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces. He praised their unwavering commitment to the nation, stating that their principle, “Nation First: Always and Every Time,” inspires every citizen with a deep sense of patriotism and gratitude.
The Vice President commended the Indian Army for establishing and maintaining the memorial, which preserves the legacy of courage, valor, and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. He also visited galleries showcasing campaigns from the India-Pakistan and India-China wars, noting that these serve as lasting evidence of the armed forces’ dedication and bravery.
Later, he visited the sacred Indus Valley near Leh and prayed at the banks of the revered Indus River. He remarked that the Indus River remains an eternal symbol of India’s civilizational heritage and cultural unity, inspiring generations through its enduring legacy.
The Vice President also toured the Pashmina goat farm in Upshi, learning about efforts to preserve and promote Ladakh’s unique Pashmina heritage. He appreciated the organization’s initiatives, stating that Changthangi goats and the world-famous Pashmina they produce reflect the rich traditions and talents of the people of Ladakh.
He praised the farm’s contribution to sustainable livestock management and the socio-economic empowerment of local communities, particularly women involved in Pashmina production and related activities. The Vice President acknowledged the dedication of scientists, staff, and local stakeholders, whose collective efforts are strengthening rural livelihoods, enhancing women’s economic participation, and preserving an invaluable national heritage for future generations.
During his visit to Upshi, the Vice President inspected the first stone dam built on the Indus River under the Indus Water Prosperity Campaign. He lauded this environmentally friendly and cost-effective initiative, describing it as an innovative and locally adapted solution to Ladakh’s persistent water challenges.
He commended the visionary leadership of Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena for conceptualizing and leading this initiative. He stated that this pioneering project raises water levels in the shallow parts of the Indus River, aiding farmers in irrigating their fields during the crucial sowing season. He emphasized that such sustainable interventions can enhance water security, support agricultural livelihoods, and contribute to the region’s long-term development.
Later in the day, the Vice President met with the brave personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) 5th Battalion in Ladakh. He appreciated their unwavering dedication, professional competence, and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders, even under the most challenging conditions.
The Vice President is on a three-day official visit to Ladakh from June 19 to 21, 2026. During this visit, he will participate in the International Yoga Day celebrations on June 21, 2026.
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