Srinagar, Uttarakhand: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday attended the student union inauguration ceremony held at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna (HNB) Garhwal Central University, Srinagar. Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the development of higher education institutions and highlighted various initiatives being implemented to drive Uttarakhand’s progress.
He emphasized that Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), calling it a proud achievement for all residents of the state. Over the past three and a half years, the government has provided more than 22,000 government jobs to the youth, contributing to a 4.4% reduction in the state’s unemployment rate.
The Chief Minister noted that Uttarakhand ranks first in the country in the Sustainable Development Goals index released by NITI Aayog. Calling the recent anti-copying law a historic step, he said it would ensure that hardworking and talented students receive their due recognition.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen educational infrastructure, CM Dhami mentioned key projects such as the establishment of a Model College, Women’s Hostel, IT Lab, Examination Bhawan, Astro Park, and Science City. He also pointed out the favorable environment being created in the state for startups and innovation.
On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat stated that the government places the highest priority on education. He urged the university administration and students to work collaboratively to enhance academic quality and assured continued government support to elevate higher education institutions to global standards.
MLA Vinod Kandari lauded the ceremony and extended his best wishes to the newly elected student representatives. He encouraged students to contribute actively to both societal and national development, alongside their academic pursuits, and promised full support for the university’s growth.
Prominent attendees at the event included University Vice Chancellor Prof. Manmohan Singh Rathan, District Magistrate Dr. Ashish Chauhan, Senior Superintendent of Police Lokeshwar Singh, Registrar Rajesh Kumar Dhori, Additional District Magistrate Anil Garbyal, Prof. O.P. Gusain, Student Union President Jaswant Singh, and other dignitaries.
