Union Minister Anurag Thakur made a major announcement on Tuesday in order to promote and develop sports across newly formed Union Territory Ladakh. He proposed setting up of a cricket and sports academy in the region so as to groom up the talented athletes.

“I come from the land that has been credited for producing some of the finest athletes. I am glad to share that there has been exceptional progress in this aspect and time and again owing to various initiatives undertaken in the area, a host of athletes have benefited be it through Himachal Pradesh Cricket Academy Stadium in Dharamshala or events like Khel Mahakumbh,” he said.

“Thus, I propose to set up a cricket and sports academy in Leh to ensure that youth of the region gets equal opportunity and a platform to excel,” he added.

The former BCCI President also marked the 69th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by conducting a Swachta Abhiyan at 18,000 ft with the Indian Army. Thakur said, “To face the challenge of climate change and make the environment eco-friendly we must become conscious and work together towards eliminating single-use plastic goods.”

The minister also hoisted the National Flag at the Army base at Khardung La Pass. Thakur became the first minister to hoist the National Flag at Khardung La Pass, post abrogation of Article 370 on August 5.