Delhi has shouldered a historic responsibility since 2019, when Ladakh was carved into a Union Territory. This was an act of recognition — of Ladakh’s loyalty, sacrifice, and identity. In the six years since Ladakh was made a Union Territory, the promises of emancipation from Kashmir’s shadow have collided with the disappointments of centralised rule. Balance security with sensitivity, integrating locals into defence-related infrastructure and decision-making. For a disaffected Ladakh would weaken India’s northern flank; an empowered Ladakh would strengthen it for generations.