Ladakh projects worth Rs 3,350 crore inaugurated by PM Modi
Why in the news
On 15 October 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated five development projects in Ladakh worth about ₹3,350 crore, joining the event through video conferencing.
Key facts
- Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, Leh: new terminal built at ₹650 crore; the country’s first airport terminal using geothermal heating, along with solar power.
- Capacity: annual passenger handling rises from 10 lakh to 35 lakh.
- Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road: ₹2,500 crore; journey time falls from roughly 12 hours to 3 hours.
- Hanu hydroelectric project and its transmission network.
- Project Amrit Him Sarovar: 40 reservoirs to supply irrigation water to farmers during key cropping periods.
- Petroglyph Conservation Park, Leh: India’s first such park, for preserving historic rock carvings.
| Project | Cost | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Leh airport terminal | ₹650 crore | Geothermal heating; 35 lakh passengers a year |
| Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road | ₹2,500 crore | Travel time about 3 hours |
| Hanu hydro project | Not stated | With transmission network |
| Amrit Him Sarovar | Not stated | 40 reservoirs |
| Petroglyph Park | Not stated | First in India |
About the context
The PM noted that he had earlier laid the foundation stone of the airport terminal. He also referred to the earlier Srinagar-Leh transmission line, power initiatives in Puga Valley, a Centre of Excellence under construction in Leh, and the approval of a High Court Bench for Ladakh in August 2026.
Exam angle
- Leh airport is named after Kushok Bakula Rinpoche.
- Geothermal heating at Leh is a first for an Indian airport terminal.
- India’s first Petroglyph Conservation Park is in Leh.