CM Dhami Inaugurates Uttarakhand State Youth Festival 2025–26; Launches Fit India Uttarakhand & Sportstech Hackathon
DEHRADUN: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Uttarakhand State Youth Festival 2025–26 at Parade Ground on Thursday, marking the 25th anniversary of the state’s formation. The festival is themed “Developed India: Young Leaders,” reflecting the government’s focus on empowering youth as the drivers of future growth.
During the event, the Chief Minister also launched two major initiatives—Fit India Uttarakhand and the Uttarakhand Sportstech Hackathon—aimed at promoting fitness, technology-driven innovation, and sports excellence among the youth.
A vibrant science exhibition featuring innovative science models created by young students, along with a stall displaying local products by self-help groups, drew significant attention at the festival.
“Youth Will Shape a Developed Uttarakhand and a Developed India” – Chief Minister Dhami
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dhami emphasized that the future of both Uttarakhand and the nation depends on the energy, talent, and vision of young people.
He said:
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“If the youth are given proper guidance and opportunities, they can take the nation to unprecedented heights.”
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“Our youth also bear the responsibility of preserving our rich culture and heritage and passing it on to the next generation.”
The Chief Minister highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, numerous schemes have been implemented to support youth aspirations. He added that the nation’s young population is playing a crucial role in fulfilling the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’
Future-Ready Opportunities for Uttarakhand’s Youth
Launching the state’s new fitness and sports innovation programs, the Chief Minister said that while technological advances continue to create new employment avenues, the phasing out of older technologies also reduces certain job streams.
“To secure the future of Uttarakhand’s youth, the government has signed MoUs with several leading companies to generate future-friendly employment opportunities,” he said.
He noted that the state has introduced various forward-looking policies and missions, including:
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One District–Two Products
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House of the Himalayas
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New Tourism and Film Policy
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State Millet Mission
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Employment and self-employment schemes focused on innovation, digitalization, and entrepreneurship.
Nurturing Sports Culture and Youth Talent
The Chief Minister said that events like the Youth Festival help participants stay connected to their roots and provide a platform to showcase their abilities. Praising the state’s performance at the 38th National Games, he said the youth of Uttarakhand are excelling in every field.
He also emphasized the government’s initiatives to strengthen the state’s sports ecosystem:
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Development of a robust sports culture
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Strict anti-cheating laws to ensure transparent selection
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Policies and programs encouraging self-employment and skill development
“These steps are enabling young people to become self-reliant and achieve their dreams,” he added.
Leaders Highlight Youth Power as Key to India’s Future
Speaking on the occasion, Sports Minister Rekha Arya said that India’s dream of becoming a developed nation by 2047 rests on the potential of its youth. She emphasized that both central and state governments are committed to creating opportunities for young people and women.
Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal noted that Uttarakhand and the country are achieving new milestones across various sectors.
The event was also attended by Minority Commission Vice Chairperson Farzana Begum, Special Principal Secretary Amit Sinha, officials, and a large number of enthusiastic youth.
