SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has raised the maximum age limit for Nambardars, or village heads, in Ladakh from 60 to 63 years, allowing experienced community representatives to continue serving beyond the previous retirement-age threshold.
The decision follows a request by the All Ladakh Goba Association during an interaction between the Lieutenant Governor and Nambardars from different parts of the Union Territory at Lok Niwas on October 3.
The association had sought the removal of the existing age ceiling, arguing that Nambardars should be allowed to continue in office beyond 60 as long as they remained capable of performing their duties and retained public support.
Under the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, a Lambardar’s tenure is five years or until the age of 60, whichever comes first. Exercising powers under Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972, read with Rule 16 of the 1980 Rules, the Lieutenant Governor has extended the maximum age to 63 while retaining the prescribed five-year term.
The administration said the change would help maintain continuity in grassroots governance, preserve local knowledge and reduce the difficulties associated with replacing experienced village heads, particularly in remote settlements and areas with challenging terrain.
“Nambardars are an important link between the administration and the people, particularly in Ladakh’s remote and geographically challenging areas,” Saxena said, highlighting their understanding of local traditions and close ties with their communities.
He said the revision was intended to enable experienced community leaders to continue contributing to local administration and strengthen governance at the grassroots level.
Nambardars, also known as Gobas in Ladakh, serve as an important link between government authorities and residents. Their knowledge of local concerns and traditions supports the administration’s efforts to reach communities and deliver public services and welfare schemes.
The latest decision follows an earlier initiative by the Lieutenant Governor to increase the monthly remuneration of Nambardars from Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000 in recognition of their role in local administration.
