FIRSTHAND ENGAGEMENT
Recently Chief Secretary Ladakh’s first-day directive to senior officers to undertake regular field visits marks a welcome shift towards grounded and accountable governance.
In a geographically vast and climatically challenging Union Territory like Ladakh, administration from conference rooms and distant capitals is no substitute for firsthand engagement with people’s realities.
By mandating fortnightly field visits, preferably with overnight stays, and linking tour notes to officers’ performance appraisals, the new Chief Secretary has sent a clear message: governance must be visible, accessible and responsive.
Equally significant is his firm observation on frequent and prolonged tours to Delhi and other places outside the UT. Such absences not only weaken administrative oversight but also reinforce public perception of a disconnected bureaucracy.
The emphasis on accessibility to the general public further strengthens this people-centric approach.
For residents of remote villages and border areas, access to decision-makers is often the biggest hurdle in resolving basic issues related to services, infrastructure and livelihoods. Regular field presence can bridge this trust deficit and improve policy implementation.
