CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Attends Ghoda Library Pahad Pachchayan Festival, Launches ₹114 Crore Development Projects in Kotabagh
Nainital: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the two-day ‘Ghoda Library Pahad Pachchayan Festival’ held at Kotabagh in the Kaladhungi Assembly constituency of Nainital district. On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 12 development projects worth more than ₹114 crore, aimed at accelerating the holistic development of the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister lauded the Ghoda Library initiative for its innovative efforts to connect folk culture, books, and nature. He described the initiative as a commendable and inspiring model that promotes a reading culture among children in mountainous and remote areas while ensuring access to education in the farthest corners of the state. He noted that this unique initiative has also received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who highlighted it during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address.
Congratulating the young team of Ghoda Library and its founder Shubham Badhani, the Chief Minister said that the initiative goes beyond merely delivering books. “It is a powerful medium that gives wings to the dreams of children,” he remarked. Encouraging students, he emphasized that books should not be confined only to examinations but should become an integral part of life, serving as lifelong friends and guides.
The Chief Minister stated that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttarakhand is progressing rapidly on the path of development. Infrastructure related to roads, education, healthcare, and drinking water is being strengthened from urban centers to the remotest villages. Simultaneously, the state government remains committed to preserving Uttarakhand’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
He informed that restoration and redevelopment work of the ancient temples of Manaskhand, including Nainidevi, Kainchi Dham, Hanumangarhi, and Mukteshwar Dham, is progressing swiftly. Additionally, the renovation and beautification of the ancient Hanuman Temple at Tok Bhatkani, Kotabagh, has been successfully completed.
Highlighting reforms in the education sector, the Chief Minister said that the New Education Policy has been effectively implemented to modernize the state’s education system. NCERT textbooks have been introduced in all government schools, and free textbooks are being provided to students from Classes 1 to 12.
A total of 226 schools are being developed as ‘PM Shri Schools’, while virtual classes are operational in 500 schools across the state. He further stated that 42,000 students have benefited from vocational education programs, and the country’s strictest anti-cheating law has been implemented to ensure a fair and transparent examination environment.
The Chief Minister added that in the last four years, more than 26,000 youth have been provided government employment. To encourage competitive exam aspirants, candidates who qualify exams such as UPSC, NDA, and CDS are being given ₹50,000 financial assistance for interview preparation. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting local languages such as Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari.
During the event, the Chief Minister visited an exhibition showcasing local products, interacted with women self-help groups and farmers, and appreciated their contributions to rural development. He also offered prayers at the ancient Hanuman Temple in Amlakot, Kotabagh, seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being for the state.
Among those present on the occasion were Member of Parliament Ajay Bhatt, MLAs Banshidhar Bhagat, Sarita Arya, Diwan Singh Bisht, Mohan Singh Bisht, Mayor of Haldwani Municipal Corporation Gajraj Bisht, BJP District President Pratap Bisht, District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal, Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Manjunath T.C., along with several public representatives, officials, and local citizens.
