The road ahead for Zangskar as a new district
People in Zangskar dancing in Padum’s main market to celebrate the announcement of district status for the region. (Photograph by Stanzin Paksang Raru)
The recent announcement by the Government of India to create five new districts in Ladakh has received a mixed response from the region. However, in Zangskar, the news has sparked unbridled joy and celebration. As the news spread like wildfire, the usually serene streets of Zangskar were filled with laughter, music, and dance. The atmosphere was electric, reminiscent of the midnight hour when India gained independence and began writing its new destiny. For Zangskar, this moment marks its coming of age, a culmination of years of struggle and persistence. As the region basks in the glory of this milestone, it is important to reflect on the arduous journey that has brought Zangskar to this juncture. From the struggles for basic amenities to the fight for recognition, Zangskar’s story is one of resilience and determination. It is a moment to revisit the region’s history to understand the trials and tribulations that have shaped its people and their aspirations.
Historically, Zangskar was one of the first three tehsils of Ladakh, along with Leh and Kargil. However, the redrawing of district boundaries in 1979 sowed the seeds of discord. The district headquarters was located in Kargil, which is a staggering 240 km from Zangskar, forcing residents to travel long distances to access basic services. For years, the people of Zangskar felt neglected and marginalised, blaming the Kargil-centric administration and the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir government for their woes. With the declaration of Ladakh as a Union Territory, the region witnessed a significant shift in infrastructural development and bureaucratic efficiency. However, UT status for Ladakh was not a solution to Zangskar’s problems and marginalisation. The people of the region aspired for district status. This dream was finally fulfilled on 26August, when Minister for Home Affairs, Government of India, Amit Shah announced district status for Zangskar. This decision has set Zangskar on a new path, where the region can shape its own destiny with careful planning and strategy for the long term to meet future opportunities and challenges.
Yet, this new chapter is not without its complexities. The announcement does not provide any specific detail about the five new districts. Ministry of Home Affairs has given a three-month window for the public and stakeholders to submit their inputs related to boundary, area and headquarter for the five new districts. This is a critical juncture for Zangskar, as the decisions made in the coming months will have long-lasting implications for the region’s governance, development, and identity. Now is the time for Zangskar to anticipate future challenges and opportunities for a better future of the region.
Challenges ahead
Administrative and governance structure: Establishing a fully functioning district administration from the ground up is no small feat. Zangskar must navigate the complexities of setting up all administrative offices in a single campus, staffing them with competent personnel, and ensuring that governance structures are efficient and inclusive. Key decisions, such as the location of the district headquarters and the delineation of boundaries must be made with careful consideration and with input from all stakeholders including local communities, religious organisations, and civil society groups.
Infrastructure development: The isolation and remoteness of Zangskar has long been a barrier to its development. The region has suffered due to inadequate road connectivity, limited healthcare facilities, and underdeveloped educational institutions. These institutions received a boost after Ladakh became a UT. However, as a new district, Zangskar will need substantial investment in infrastructure to improve the quality of life for its residents. Building all-weather roads, expanding healthcare access, and upgrading schools and colleges must be prioritised. The challenge will be to balance rapid development with the preservation of Zangskar’s unique cultural and environmental heritage. Development must be carried out with care to maximise utility and minimise environmental damage.
Environmental conservation: The pristine environment of Zangskar is one of its greatest assets, which attracts tourists and serves as a vital resource for local communities. However, this environment is also fragile. As development accelerates, there is a risk of environmental degradation, including deforestation, loss of biodiversity and increased pollution. The new district administration must prioritise sustainable development practices to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of the region’s natural beauty and ecology.
Social cohesion and inclusivity: Zangskar is home to a diverse population, including Buddhists and Muslims. As the region transitions into a new district, it is essential to foster social cohesion and ensure that development benefits all communities equally. Inclusivity must be at the heart of growth strategy of Zangskar with policies that address the needs of marginalised groups, promote gender equality, and encourage youth participation in decision-making processes.
Economic development: The economy of Zangskar is primarily based on agriculture, animal husbandry and tourism and requires diversification to ensure long-term prosperity. The new district administration should explore opportunities in renewable energy, agro-based industries, and eco-tourism. It should develop a comprehensive strategy to leverage the economic strengths of Zangskar while addressing its vulnerabilities for sustainable development.
Opportunities for growth
Tourism potential: The breath-taking landscapes along with rich cultural and spiritual heritage make Zangskar a prime destination for tourism. With careful planning and infrastructure development, the region can tap into its tourism potential, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. However, this must be done with a focus on sustainable tourism, minimising environmental impact and ensuring that local communities benefit from the influx of visitors.
Education and skill development: The status of education in Zangskar remains poor and it requires serious attention to provide the next generation with a holistic education. Now, there is an opportunity to enhance educational facilities and provide vocational training to the youth. Investing in education and skill development will empower the next generation to take advantage of new opportunities in various sectors including tourism and technology. By prioritising education, Zangskar will create a strong foundation for a more prosperous and self-reliant future.
Cultural preservation: The rich cultural and religious heritage of Zangskar is a source of pride for its people. As the region develops and becomes more accessible with improved road connectivity with Manali, Leh and Kargil, there is an urgent need to preserve and promote its cultural heritage. This can be done through cultural tourism, festivals, and educational programs. By celebrating and safeguarding its unique identity, Zangskar can become a beacon of cultural resilience in the face of modernisation.
Empowering civil society: The civil society of Zangskar including organisations such as the Zanskar Buddhist Association, Women’s Alliance of Zanskar, Anjuman Moin-ul Islam, and youth organisations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region. These groups must be empowered to participate actively in the planning and implementation of development projects while ensuring that the voices of all communities are heard.
Conclusion
The road ahead for Zangskar includes challenges and opportunities. As the region transitions into a new district, it is essential to approach this moment with a clear vision and a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. The responsibility now lies with leaders, civil society, and the broader community to craft a strategy that addresses the region’s immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity. This is a momentous opportunity to correct past wrongs, address longstanding issues, and chart a course for sustainable progress. If Zangskar uses this opportunity with wisdom and foresight, it can become a model for inclusive growth and development in Ladakh and beyond. However, if not managed carefully, the future could be one of continued stagnation and unfulfilled potential. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the destiny of Zangskar for generations to come, and it is crucial that the region rises to the challenge.
By Dr Jamphel Sheyan
Dr Jamphel Sheyan is Assistant Professor at Government Degree College, Zangskar.