Leh, March 14, 2026: Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, chaired a meeting to review a proposal regarding the constitution and registration of Tourism Societies and Wildlife Societies in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Mandeep Mittal, IFS, delivered a detailed presentation outlining the proposed framework for the societies. The presentation covered key aspects including the objectives of the societies, the composition of the governing body and executive committee, and proposals related to the levy of a green fee. It also discussed the legal provisions for imposing the green fee, proposals for revising entry and permit fees, and mechanisms for effective fee management.
While reviewing the proposal, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of clarity and accountability in the formation of the societies. He suggested that members of the governing bodies be identified individually by name to ensure transparency and effective participation. He further recommended the inclusion of representatives from the private sector, noting that their participation could strengthen decision-making and improve outcomes, particularly through avenues such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed aspects related to wildlife fee deposits and discussed the need for flexibility in the system. Various alternative mechanisms for the collection of green fees were deliberated upon, including the possibility of a uniform green fee collection system, such as through petrol pumps or other accessible channels, while also taking into account the historical methods of levy collection.
During the deliberations, emphasis was laid on ensuring that the societies are financially sustainable and aligned with their intended objectives. The Chief Secretary highlighted the need to establish an appropriate corpus fund for the societies in accordance with the relevant legal provisions and stressed that funding sources must be clearly specified to support the activities and goals of the societies. He also reviewed the potential role of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds and their possible benefits for supporting the initiatives of the proposed societies.
The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary Lalinthakhuma Franklin, Rajesh S Kumar, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, Secretary Tourism Sanjit Rodrigues, Secretary Law and Justice Qureshi Tariq Mehmood, Joint Director Finance Kaneez Fatima, along with other senior officers from the concerned departments.
