CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Interacts with Traders and Industry Representatives in Haldwani, Assures Action on Their Concerns
Traders and industry are the backbone of Uttarakhand’s economy; government committed to creating a safe, transparent and business-friendly environment: CM Dhami
More than 29,000 new MSME units established in the state, generating direct employment for around 1.27 lakh youth
Over 206 services of 26 major departments now available online through Single Window Portal
Haldwani: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday interacted with traders, entrepreneurs, industry representatives and office-bearers of various trade associations from the Kumaon region at a dialogue programme held at ITC Fortune, Haldwani.
The Chief Minister heard the concerns, suggestions and expectations of members of the business and industrial community and assured them of all possible support from the state government for the effective resolution of their issues.
During the interaction, traders and industry representatives raised several issues before the Chief Minister, including simplification of GST-related procedures, mandi fees, encroachment and parking problems, renewal of leases, expansion of basic infrastructure in industrial areas, better market access for local products and measures to encourage young entrepreneurs.
Traders and Industry Are the Backbone of the State Economy
Chief Minister Dhami said that traders and industries are the backbone of Uttarakhand’s economy. Besides generating employment, traders play an important role in connecting producers with consumers and driving economic activity across the state.
He said that every trader—from small shopkeepers to large entrepreneurs—is an important partner in Uttarakhand’s development journey.
“The state government is sensitive to the interests of traders and entrepreneurs and is continuously working to create a safe, transparent, simple and business-friendly environment,” the Chief Minister said.
CM Appreciates Role of Traders During COVID-19
Recalling the contribution of the trading community during the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Minister Dhami said that grocery and retail traders continued supplying food grains and other essential commodities to people despite the difficult circumstances and risks involved.
He said the business community demonstrated its commitment to society during the crisis and proved that traders are a strong pillar of the country and the state.
The Chief Minister also described Indian traders as the “true ambassadors of Brand India.”
29,000+ New MSME Units Established in Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Dhami said that the state has witnessed significant growth in industrial and entrepreneurial activity in recent years.
According to the figures shared during the programme, more than 29,000 new MSME units have been established in Uttarakhand, providing direct employment to around 1.27 lakh youth.
He said the government’s approach is clear: governance should not become an obstacle for industries but should work as a facilitator and partner.
“If industries grow, employment opportunities will increase, and increased employment will further strengthen Uttarakhand’s economy,” he said.
206+ Services of 26 Departments Available Online
The Chief Minister said the state government is continuously working to make the Ease of Doing Business environment simpler and more effective.
A “Nivesh Mitra” mechanism has been introduced to facilitate the speedy resolution of issues faced by investors and entrepreneurs, while the Single Window System has also been strengthened.
At present, more than 206 services of 26 major departments are available online through the Single Window Portal, helping investors and entrepreneurs access government services through a streamlined system.
More Than 30 Policies Framed Based on Industry Feedback
Chief Minister Dhami said the suggestions received from the industry and business community during the Investors Summit were taken seriously by the state government.
Based on these inputs, the government has formulated more than 30 policies, with the suggestions and requirements of the business and industrial sectors being given priority during the policy-making process.
He said these initiatives are yielding positive results and contributing to the expansion of industrial activities in Uttarakhand.
Focus on Making Youth Job Creators
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a new confidence in trade, entrepreneurship and innovation has emerged in the country.
He said the government’s objective is to create an ecosystem where youth, including those from ordinary families, aspire not merely to seek jobs but to become job creators.
To promote entrepreneurship and innovation among young people, the state has implemented the Uttarakhand Startup Policy and established a ₹200-crore Venture Fund.
The government, he said, wants young people in the hill districts to be able to build businesses from their villages and connect their products and services with national and global markets.
Industrial Development to Be Expanded in Hill Districts
Chief Minister Dhami stressed that industrial development in Uttarakhand should not remain confined to the plains.
He said efforts are being made to promote industrial activities in the hill districts as well. Land has been identified for developing special industrial parks in Chamoli, Pauri and Almora to encourage small industries.
A flatted factory is being developed in Haridwar to provide modern facilities to small entrepreneurs. Similar facilities are also proposed for Selaqui and Pantnagar in the future.
The Chief Minister said the government’s objective is to ensure that opportunities are available wherever talent exists and employment avenues are created wherever young people live.
“Made in Uttarakhand” to Be Developed as a Global Brand
Chief Minister Dhami said Uttarakhand’s economic development cannot depend solely on large industries. Local products made in villages, artisans, farmers, small traders and local entrepreneurs are equally important stakeholders in the state’s development.
He said initiatives such as “One District, Two Products” are being used to connect local products and traditional crafts with larger markets.
The government’s objective, he said, is to transform “Made in Uttarakhand” into a strong brand in national and global markets based on quality and trust.
He added that sectors such as pharmaceuticals, herbal products, AYUSH, engineering and auto components are witnessing rapid growth in the state. Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar have emerged as major industrial centres of Uttarakhand.
“You Expand Your Business, the Government Stands With You”
Chief Minister Dhami said every person engaged in business in Uttarakhand is a partner in the state’s development journey.
He said the progress of businesses is directly linked to the progress of the state. As businesses grow, they create new employment opportunities, which in turn strengthen the state economy.
The government’s priority, he said, is to provide every trader with a secure environment, transparent systems, simplified procedures and better investment opportunities.
Calling upon traders and industry representatives to further expand investment and business activities in the state, the Chief Minister said:
“You expand your business, the government stands with you.”
He said the state government is moving forward with its “Vikalp Rahit Sankalp” (unwavering resolve) to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country.
He expressed confidence that with the cooperation and participation of the business and industrial community, the vision of a developed Uttarakhand would be realised and the state would play an important role in building a developed India.
Officials and Representatives Present
The programme was attended by Nainital-Udham Singh Nagar MP Ajay Bhatt, Ram Singh Kaida, state government nominees Naveen Lal Verma, Dr Anil Kapoor ‘Dabbu’, Shankar Koranga and Hukum Singh Kunwar.
Representatives of the trade and industry community, including Kashmiri Lal Goyal, Neeraj Sharda, Radharām Agrawal, Saket Agrawal, Deepak Maheshwari, Gaurav Goyal, Juhi Goyal, Naveen Agrawal and Rajaram Agrawal, were also present.
District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Ryal, SSP Dr Manjunath T.C., Chief Development Officer Arvind Kumar Pandey, along with officials from GST, Industries, SIDCUL and other concerned departments, attended the programme.
The programme was conducted by Additional Secretary Manmohan Mainali.
