President Ram Nath Kovind is on a day-long visit to Ladakh and it is his first visit outside Delhi after assuming the office earlier this month.<br/><br/>Decorated with 611 gallantry and distinguished service awards, Ladakh Scouts today recieved President's Colours from himself at Leh. A ceremonial parade was conducted as per the highest military traditions of the Indian Army which was attended by a spectrum of civil and military dignitaries including the Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.<br/><br/>Speaking on the occassion President Ram Nath Kovind complimented the Ladakh Scouts personnel for their outstanding performance in all spheres and their exceptional valour and sacrifice while upholding the sovereignty of the nation in Ladakh region especially in the Siachen Glacier.<br/><br/>The President also appreciated the exceptional gallantry and indomitable courage displayed by the brave soldiers during all major wars and operations since independence. He exhorted all personnel to continue to striving hard in pursuit of excellence in all spheres and take a solemn vow to defend the sovereignty of the nation against all odds in the true spirit signified by the Colours presented to the regiment.<br/><br/>At the inauguration of Buddha Park for World Peace at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, the President played a bell, touted to be the biggest bell in the Himalayan region. Children presented a cultural performance and monks prayed for the well-being and success of the President. The President also paid obeisance to the monastery inside the Meditation Centre.

President Ram Nath Kovind is visiting Ladakh today. He presented President's Colour to the Ladakh scouts regiment and its five other units this morning and he also addressed them.<br/><br/>Later, the president will head to the Mahabodhi international meditation centre to put a foundation stone of the Buddha park. The President will also pay tributes to Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar at Ambedkar park inside the Mahabodhi campus.