Leh (Ladakh): Chief Secretary of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, conducted an on-ground inspection of the airport–Jivetsal route to review preparations for the upcoming Sacred Exposition of the Holy Relics of the Tathagata, a major spiritual event scheduled to begin in May 2026.
The inspection focused on ensuring smooth transportation, infrastructure readiness, and visitor management along the key route that will be used by dignitaries, monks, and thousands of devotees expected to attend the exposition.
Key Focus Areas of Inspection
During the visit, the Chief Secretary reviewed:
- Road conditions and traffic management plans
- Cleanliness and beautification of the route
- Safety arrangements and signage
- Coordination among departments for seamless movement
Officials have also initiated renovation and painting of stupas and public infrastructure along the route to enhance the spiritual and visual appeal ahead of the event.
Preparations for a Historic Event
The exposition, to be held at Jivetsal in Choglamsar, is considered a rare and significant religious occasion, with sacred relics of Lord Buddha being displayed to the public. The event is expected to attract large numbers of pilgrims, tourists, and international visitors.
Authorities are making extensive arrangements, including:
- Dedicated transport services for visitors
- Security and crowd management plans
- Coordination with tourism stakeholders and local bodies
The sacred relics are expected to arrive in Ladakh by the end of April, with ceremonial reception arrangements planned at the airport.
Inter-Departmental Coordination
The Chief Secretary emphasised the need for close coordination between departments, including police, transport, tourism, and municipal authorities, to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all attendees.
He directed officials to prioritise timely execution of works, proper monitoring, and adherence to guidelines, given the scale and importance of the event.
Bigger Impact
The inspection highlights the administration’s proactive approach in preparing for an event of religious, cultural, and global significance. The exposition is expected to:
- Promote Ladakh as a major Buddhist pilgrimage destination
- Boost tourism and local economy
- Convey a global message of peace and harmony
Overall, the review of the airport–Jivetsal route marks a crucial step in ensuring that Ladakh is fully prepared to host the historic Buddha relics exposition with efficiency, safety, and spiritual grandeur.
