Kavinder Gupta sworn in as Himachal Pradesh Governor

Kavinder Gupta was sworn in as the 30th Governor of Himachal Pradesh at the Lok Bhavan in Shimla on Tuesday (March 10, 2026).

Mr. Gupta earlier served as the Lieutenant-Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, to which he was appointed in July 2025. A senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Jammu and Kashmir, Mr. Gupta was Deputy Chief Minister in the J&K government led by Mehbooba Mufti.

He would coordinate closely with the State government, working strictly in accordance with the Constitution, Mr. Gupta told media persons. “The office of the Governor is a Constitutional responsibility. The Governor does not belong to any political party and works for the overall development of the State and society,” he said.

He would strive to carry forward the initiatives begun by previous Governors, and would seek the cooperation of the Chief Minister and the State government in completing them on priority, he said. He would work towards protecting the environment, particularly enhancing the State’s green cover, and on preserving cultural heritage and strengthening tourism, with special emphasis on religious tourism, Mr. Gupta said.

Quality education, skill development, and the effective implementation of the National Education Policy by integrating Indian values with modern education were important, he said.

Special attention would also be given to tribal development, promotion of natural farming, youth welfare, and strengthening the ongoing campaign against drug abuse in the State. “Efforts will also be made to ensure Central schemes are effectively implemented to improve infrastructure and connectivity in remote areas of the State,” Governor Gupta said.

The Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia administered the oath of office and secrecy to him. Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh and Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were present on the occasion.