CM Dhami urges citizens to ‘Give Books, Not Bouquets’ and says AI can never replace books. Releases Jai Singh Rawat’s book on Uttarakhand’s political history.
Dehradun, 22 November:
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that no matter how advanced Artificial Intelligence becomes, books will always remain irreplaceable. Encouraging people to adopt the habit of reading, he urged citizens to gift books instead of bouquets at events, calling it a meaningful step to inspire knowledge and creativity.
The Chief Minister was speaking at his residence during the launch of senior journalist and eminent author Jai Singh Rawat’s new book, “The Recent Political History of Uttarakhand State.”
Book Launch: A Complete Chronicle of 25 Years of Uttarakhand’s Political Evolution
Releasing the book, Chief Minister Dhami praised Jai Singh Rawat for meticulously documenting Uttarakhand’s 25-year political journey since its formation. He said the book authentically presents the political, administrative, and developmental phases of the state with the support of rare documents, press reports, and factual analysis.
The Chief Minister added that while several books exist on Uttarakhand’s culture and folk traditions, a fact-based compilation covering two-and-a-half decades of political developments is a challenging task—one that Rawat has accomplished remarkably.
Divided into five sections, the book will serve as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and aspirants preparing for administrative services.
He noted that Uttarakhand went through a prolonged phase of political instability after its creation, which affected development. Rawat’s work provides a credible record of this period, created with the depth, integrity, and fearlessness of an experienced journalist.
Books Deepen Thinking—AI Cannot Replace Them: CM Dhami
Highlighting the significance of reading in the digital age, the Chief Minister said:
“The internet may offer quick information, but books give us depth, clarity, and lasting knowledge. No technology—including AI—can replace the experience and wisdom that books provide.”
He urged people to adopt the habit of gifting books, saying it would encourage readers as well as motivate writers and researchers.
Preserving Uttarakhand’s Local Languages: Government Prioritizing Digitization
Chief Minister Dhami reiterated the state government’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of local languages—Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari. He said strengthening mother tongues is a cultural responsibility and an essential part of protecting Uttarakhand’s heritage.
He announced that the government is working on several new initiatives to digitize local dialects, literature, and folk content, ensuring that traditional knowledge is preserved for the younger generation. Making this content available on digital platforms will help regional languages grow stronger in modern times.
The Chief Minister appealed to families, teachers, and students to increase the use of local languages at home, in schools, and in communities. He encouraged youth to create content in their mother tongues and participate in government-supported competitions focusing on local literature, songs, research, and digital storytelling.
Language and Culture Are Our Identity: CM Dhami
The Chief Minister said:
“Language, culture, and customs are not just means of communication—they form the foundation of our identity. It is essential for our children to understand the struggles and values with which our ancestors preserved their heritage.”
He added that cultural awareness helps strengthen self-confidence among the youth and instills pride in their roots.
Event Attendees
Former Chief Minister and former Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshyari, former Chief Minister Harish Rawat, MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola, senior journalists, writers, intellectuals, and several dignitaries attended the ceremony.
