LEH: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved a substantial enhancement in the monthly emoluments of Nambardars, locally known as Gobas, from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, marking an increase of more than 233 per cent and providing financial support to 247 village heads across the Union Territory.
The enhancement, the first in a decade since 2016, is aimed at recognising the important role played by Nambardars in grassroots governance and strengthening participatory administration in Ladakh. The Lieutenant Governor said the move would help reinforce their contribution towards sustainable and inclusive development, particularly in remote and geographically challenging areas.
The decision follows a long-standing demand from Nambardars for an increase in their emoluments. During his visits to villages across Ladakh, Saxena had received several representations highlighting the inadequacy of the existing amount in view of the responsibilities shouldered by Gobas. On September 19, a delegation of Nambardars from different villages also met the Lieutenant Governor and sought enhancement of their monthly payments.
Taking note of their concerns, Saxena directed the Chief Secretary to examine the matter and take appropriate action.
Nambardars occupy an important position at the grassroots level and serve as a link between the administration and villagers. Their role has gained significance with the growing emphasis on last-mile delivery of public services and community-led government initiatives, particularly in remote areas of Ladakh. They help communicate local requirements to the administration while assisting residents in accessing government schemes and services.
The Lieutenant Governor said the enhancement was intended not only to provide greater financial support but also to acknowledge the responsibilities undertaken by Gobas in facilitating administrative outreach, development activities and implementation of government programmes at the village level.
Saxena also noted the contribution of Nambardars in identifying local issues. Several water-related problems addressed in different villages in recent times through innovative interventions were based on inputs provided by the village heads. He appreciated their proactive efforts in highlighting pressing concerns in their respective areas.
“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, adding that the enhanced emoluments recognised their responsibilities and long-standing demand. He expressed confidence that the measure would further strengthen their role in ensuring that development programmes, welfare schemes and government services reach households effectively.
The revised emoluments have been fixed under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972 and the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, as applicable to the Union Territory of Ladakh. The enhanced emoluments will come into effect from the date of publication of the relevant notification in the Official Gazette.
