New Delhi: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid a courtesy visit to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday. During the meeting, the Chief Minister raised several key issues of state interest, seeking the Centre’s support for the holistic development of Uttarakhand, especially its hilly and border regions.
Highlighting the need for improved urban governance and infrastructure, CM Dhami urged the merger of the cantonment areas of Ranikhet and Lansdowne with their respective municipal bodies. He emphasized that this step would accelerate the integrated development of tourism, public amenities, and infrastructure in these historically significant areas.
To enhance air connectivity in remote and border regions, the Chief Minister also requested approval for the use of military helipads at Dharchula and Joshimath for civilian operations under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS–UDAN). This, he said, would significantly benefit the residents of these strategically important areas and boost regional mobility.
In addition, Chief Minister Dhami appealed for the waiver of charges levied by the Indian Air Force for its services during disaster relief and rescue operations in the state, considering Uttarakhand’s vulnerability to natural calamities.
Further, he requested that the maintenance and upkeep of the Tharali–Dewal–Mundoli–Van motor road, a critical route for the upcoming Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra in 2026, continue to be undertaken by the Public Works Department. He underscored the cultural and religious importance of the Yatra, which is held once every 12 years and draws devotees from across the region and country.
Responding positively, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured the Chief Minister of favorable consideration and necessary action on all the points raised during the meeting.
