Ladakh gets new policies on quota, domicile status
Ladakh Gets New Rules on Domicile, Job Reservations, and Hill Council Composition
On June 3, 2025, the Union Government released a set of new rules that redefine Ladakh’s local governance. The policies cover domicile eligibility, job reservations, language usage in administration, and the structure of the Autonomous Hill Development Councils (AHDCs). Since becoming a Union Territory in 2019, Ladakh has seen increasing demands from local groups for legal safeguards and identity protection. This move addresses some of those concerns directly.
The Centre intends to preserve Ladakh’s unique cultural and demographic makeup while ensuring inclusive development. By introducing specific measures that prioritize local communities, the government signals its intent to protect Ladakh’s interests while maintaining national integration.
New Domicile Rules: 15-Year Residency for Outsiders
The new rules require non-Ladakhis to reside in the region for at least 15 years to qualify as domiciles. This clause aims to protect the region from demographic changes that might affect its social and environmental balance. Locals have long expressed concern that an influx of outsiders could displace native populations and overwhelm the fragile ecosystem.
Children of government employees working in Ladakh do not need to meet the 15-year residency requirement. Authorities will enforce this rule while evaluating candidates for government jobs, education quotas, and local welfare schemes.
80% Government Job Quota Reserved for Scheduled Tribes
The government has reserved 80% of all Group C and D government jobs for candidates from Scheduled Tribes (STs). Since a majority of Ladakh’s population belongs to tribal communities, this decision aims to ensure that locals benefit from government hiring. Groups like the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) had made strong demands for job protection.
Local recruitment boards will manage the hiring process and ensure that ST candidates receive fair opportunities. The policy is expected to reduce unemployment among Ladakhi youth and discourage migration in search of work.
One-Third Hill Council Seats Reserved for Women
The new rules also introduce a one-third reservation for women in both the Leh and Kargil hill councils. This marks a significant step toward increasing women’s representation in local politics. Until now, the councils had minimal female participation, despite various grassroots campaigns calling for gender inclusion.
The reservation applies to both elected and nominated seats, ensuring broader participation. Officials expect the move to strengthen women’s involvement in community decisions and improve focus on issues like education, healthcare, and safety.
