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Lahaul-Spiti becomes India's first all-women administrative district

(Rpt, correcting)
Shimla, Apr 28 (UNI) In a historic move, Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, known for its challenging terrain and extreme weather, has become India’s first all-women administrative district.
This transformation comes with the recent posting of IAS officer Kiran Badana as Deputy Commissioner.
A firebrand officer, Badana’s appointment marks a major milestone for the district where, interestingly, the female population outnumbers males due to very high male migration outside the district for livelihood.
This shift follows a series of strategic political and administrative decisions. Last year, a surprise political development resulted in the election of Anuradha Rana as the district's second woman legislator during the 2024 bye-election, further strengthening women's leadership in the tribal region.
Adding to the momentum, the Congress government recently appointed Ilma Afroz as the Superintendent of Police for Lahaul-Spiti, transferring her from Solan district after her commendable success in curbing mining mafias and political interference.
To complete the circle, the charge of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Keylong is with Akanksha Sharma and SDM Kaza Shikha who were assigned to wo men officer, making Lahaul-Spiti a model of women-led governance.
Once regarded as a "punishment posting" due to its harsh climate and geographical isolation, Lahaul-Spiti is fast emerging as a preferred destination for women officers. With improved infrastructure like the Rohtang Tunnel and the unmatched warmth of its people, the district offers both professional challenges and opportunities.
Despite the developments, governing Lahaul-Spiti remains a formidable task. The district shares long international borders with the Union Territory of Ladakh and Tibet, and stays buried under heavy snow for nearly half the year. The hostile terrain and life-threatening conditions test the resilience of its administrators daily.
A major highlight awaits next month as the President of India is scheduled to visit the district. Top officials and the local MLA are planning a special reception to showcase the district’s transformation under women’s leadership.
The Lahaul-Spiti model not only reflects a breakthrough in gender representation but also demonstrates how women administrators are setting new standards in governance, even in the country’s most inhospitable regions.
UNI ML ARN
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