India, July 13 -- The Union Territory of Ladakh is set to get one hill council each for its seven districts and a UT-level body as Union Territory chief secretary Ashish Kundra made the announcement on Monday. Kundra described the move as a major step towards strengthening grassroots governance and balanced development across the region.

While Ladakh earlier had two districts, five more were formed in April 2026. The new districts of Ladakh are Sham, Nubra, Changthang, Zanskar, and Drass. Elected representation until now has remained with the two existing councils, one each in Leh and Kargil.

"Ladakh Administration has decided to constitute Autonomous Hill Development Council in each of the seven districts. It is a major step towards de...