Leh, February 22: The Union Territory of Ladakh will be hosting its first-ever, G-20 meetings from April 26-28, 2023, and will undergo a makeover as part of the summit-related preparations. The Principal Secretary, Sanjeev Khirwar chaired a meeting to review the preparations at the Conference Hall of the Protocol Office, Leh.
At the outset, the Divisional Commissioner and G-20 Nodal Officer in Ladakh, Saugat Biswas apprised the meeting about the preparations for the hosting of the G20 delegation. He informed that the G-20 delegates will be given a traditional reception at the airport upon their arrival. Further, he stated road repair work and beautification of areas that the delegates are likely to visit during their trip will be undertaken.
The Administrative Secretary, Culture and Tourism Department, Kacho Mehboob Ali Khan apprised the meeting that the government will host a lunch for the G-20 delegates at the Sindhu Ghat. A cultural festival will also be organised at the Sindhu ghat, which will include cultural programmes, a food festival highlighting local cuisine, an art exhibition by local artists, and showcasing of products by local start-ups among others, he added.
As part of the Jan Bhagidari or people’s participation, the Director School Education, Dr. Safdar Ali apprised the meeting that drawing contests on the theme, ‘G-20 summit’ will be organised in schools and the best drawings will be painted on designated municipality walls as street art. Further, he informed that seminars and lectures are organized by the department in schools as part of the educational outreach to school children for disseminating information on the G-20 summit.
Earlier this month a joint survey by concerned departments led by the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Shrikant Suse was undertaken of designated areas to work towards improving the road infrastructure, and aesthetics of the city among others.
The Principal Secretary Sanjeev khirwar, exhorted that the G-20 preparations should highlight the rich traditions of Ladakh, its beauty, and its culture. Regarding the beautification of the city by incorporating street art, the Principal Secretary said the street art should showcase achievements of UT Ladakh, viz, Carbon-Neutral Ladakh, Jal Jeevan Mission; achievements of Self-Help Groups, along with highlighting the culture and biodiversity of the region. He gave directions to the PDD to fix low-lying wires in the city. Taking stock of the progress of work, the Principal Secretary directed the concerned to ensure the completion of work within the stipulated time frame.
The meeting was attended by all Administrative Secretaries; Deputy Commissioner, Leh; HoDs; Chief Engineers PWD; PDD, and officials from concerned departments.
