Leh, Dec 18: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta on Thursday said the Union Territory is steadily emerging as a memorable, responsible and sustainable global destination, where tourism growth is rooted in cultural preservation, community participation and environmental responsibility. “Ladakh’s unique heritage, pristine natural landscape and resilient communities form the core of its global identity, and the administration is committed to promoting tourism that is inclusive, balanced and respectful of local traditions and ecology,” the LG said while speaking at an event organised by the Department of Tourism for the unveiling of the new Destination Ladakh logo. He said the initiative reflects Ladakh’s unique heritage and vision for responsible tourism. The logo’s design symbolises the region’s resilience, warmth, and traditional-modern harmony, aiming to promote Ladakh’s identity on both national and international platforms. Gupta described the logo unveiling as more than a branding exercise; it is an opportunity to showcase Ladakh’s culture, stories of resilience, and natural beauty. The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of integrating remote regions like Ladakh into the broader development framework through innovation, sustainability, and cultural preservation. The Lt Governor stressed that this approach aims to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities, including youth and women, while encouraging year-round tourism. Several key tourism projects are underway in Ladakh, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, including the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 projects—Julley Leh Biodiversity Park (₹23.16 crore), LoC & Hunderman Village Experience in Kargil (₹11.45 crore), and Mushkoo Valley development (₹9.77 crore). Homestay initiatives are also progressing in tribal clusters like Suru, Aryan, and Sham Valleys under the PM-JUGA scheme (₹4.59 crore). Additional projects include a Water Screen Projection Show at TFC Kargil (₹12.07 crore) and a Sound & Light Show at Leh Palace (₹8.57 crore), both expected to be operational by 2026, further strengthening sustainable tourism. During the event, Gupta released the “Celebrate Ladakh” calendar, outlining dates of major festivals for the next three years to promote cultural tourism. He also launched the STP Incentive Scheme for environmental protection and health regulations, along with SOPs for private tour operators to procure satellite phones from BSNL for emergency use. Kargil’s Chairman/CEC, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, praised the creative team Stringmo for their efforts, noting how income from artistic work has helped sustain families in the region. He highlighted the tourism potential in Suru Valley, home to the Nun-Kun expedition, and called for establishing an institute there and organising major sports events to boost youth engagement. Chief Advisor Dr Pawan Kotwal addressed the needs of tourism stakeholders, including the importance of consistent promotion at national and international levels. He highlighted initiatives like the STP Incentive Policy and a solar rooftop scheme for commercial establishments. Tourism Secretary Sanjit Rodrigues detailed various departmental efforts, including schemes like Swadesh Darshan, CBDD, PM JUGA, Ladakh Homestay Policy 2023, and Ladakh Mountaineering Policy 2024. Future plans include familiarisation tours, B2B meetings, and a Winter Conclave to enhance Ladakh’s tourism outreach. The new Destination Ladakh logo, inspired by the Bhoti letter “La,” was officially launched. Designed by Team Stringmo, led by Kaneez Fatima, it visually represents Ladakh’s landscape, culture, and heritage, symbolising historic trade routes and mountain passes that define the region’s identity.