Ladakh Introduces Five New Districts: Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang -

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced today the creation of five new districts in the Union Territory of Ladakh. The newly established districts are Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang.

Commitment to Local Governance

Home Minister Shah emphasized the government’s dedication to enhancing opportunities for Ladakh’s residents. He stated, “The Modi government is committed to creating abundant opportunities for the people of Ladakh. By establishing the districts of Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang, we aim to bring governance and benefits directly to the people’s doorsteps.”

In pursuit of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji’s vision to build a developed and prosperous Ladakh, the MHA has decided to create five new districts in the union territory. The new districts, namely Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra and Changthang, will take the benefits meant for the people…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 26, 2024

Background on Ladakh’s Status

Following the revocation of Article 370, which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh was designated as a Union Territory in 2019. This reorganization resulted in the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories, with Ladakh coming under the direct administration of the Home Ministry.

Enhancing Governance and Services

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his approval of the new administrative changes. In a statement on X, he congratulated the people of Ladakh and noted, “The creation of five new districts in Ladakh is a significant move toward improved governance and prosperity. With Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang now established, services and opportunities will be more accessible to residents.”

In pursuit of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji’s vision to build a developed and prosperous Ladakh, the MHA has decided to create five new districts in the union territory. The new districts, namely Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra and Changthang, will take the benefits meant for the people…

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 26, 2024

Impact on Existing Districts

Prior to this expansion, Ladakh was divided into two districts, Leh and Kargil, each overseen by an autonomous district council. The addition of the new districts will increase the total number of districts in Ladakh to seven, aiming to provide more localized and efficient governance.