Ladakh raises the maximum age for Nambardars from 60 to 63 years

15 October 2026

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved raising the maximum age limit for Nambardars in Ladakh from 60 to 63 years.
The decision followed a meeting at Lok Niwas on 3 October 2026 and was announced on 9 October 2026.
Under Rule 16 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Rules, 1980, a Nambardar's term ran for five years or until the age of 60, whichever came first. The five-year term stays unchanged.
The power used is drawn from Section 6 of the Jammu and Kashmir Lambardari Act, 1972.
The President of the All Ladakh Goba Association had asked that the age cap be removed for Nambardars who remain capable and retain public support; the approved change raises it to 63 rather than removing it.
The stated purpose is continuity in local administration, retaining traditional knowledge, and easier transitions in remote and difficult villages.
An earlier decision had raised the Nambardars' monthly honorarium from Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000.
Nambardars, also called Gobas, are village heads who link the administration with local communities.