Leh, September 21: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved an increase in the monthly emoluments of Nambardars, locally known as Gobas, from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, marking an increase of more than three times.
The decision, the first revision in the past 10 years, will benefit 247 Nambardars across the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The Lieutenant Governor said the enhancement would provide greater financial support to Nambardars and strengthen participatory governance at the grassroots level, particularly in remote and geographically challenging areas.
The issue had been raised by Nambardars during the Lieutenant Governor’s visits to various villages across Ladakh. On September 19, a delegation representing Nambardars from different villages also met Saxena and sought an increase, citing their responsibilities and the low existing remuneration.
Taking note of their concerns, the Lieutenant Governor directed the Chief Secretary to examine the matter and take appropriate action.
Nambardars play an important role at the village level, acting as a link between local residents and the administration. Their responsibilities include communicating local needs to authorities and helping residents access government schemes, welfare programmes and public services.
Saxena said their close connection with villagers has also helped the administration identify and address local issues, including water-related concerns in several villages.
“The role of Nambardars (Gobas) is crucial because they remain closely connected with the people and serve as a vital link between the administration and our villages,” Saxena said.
He added that the revised emoluments recognise their responsibilities and long-standing demand and would support their role in ensuring the effective delivery of government programmes and services.
The revised emoluments have been approved under the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972 and the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, as applicable to the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The new emoluments will take effect from the date of publication of the relevant notification in the Official Gazette.
