Chaukhutia: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the historic Chaitra Ashtami fair held at the revered Maa Agniri temple premises in Chaukhutia on Friday. CM Dhami offered prayers to Maa Agniri, seeking happiness and prosperity for the people of Uttarakhand.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized that the fair is not just a religious event but also a vibrant platform for spreading awareness about social issues while preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage, folk art, and traditions. He lauded the unique blend of devotional and cultural programs, including folk performances from Kumaon and Garhwal and awareness-themed tableaux on issues like environmental protection, “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao,” drug de-addiction, and agricultural preservation.
Highlighting the state’s achievements, CM Dhami noted that Uttarakhand has become the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state is advancing numerous developmental and innovative initiatives.
He announced the approval of 28 additional roads in the region under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, stating that these would become milestones in regional development. He further noted that the state government is working to improve infrastructure in remote areas through better road connectivity, education, healthcare, and drinking water facilities.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the promotion of spiritual tourism, mentioning the development of the Char Dham circuit and the Manaskhand Mandirmala Mission. He added that significant religious sites, including Bhairavnath Temple Navagadi, Bhairav Temple Pandukhal, and Maa Nandadevi Kotiyatal, will be developed under this initiative. “Our aim is holistic development, from Mana to Adi Kailash,” he declared.
Key Announcements for Chaukhutia Region:
Higher Education Expansion: Postgraduate classes in Economics and English will be launched at Chaukhutia College in the upcoming session, along with undergraduate classes in Science.
Water Conservation: A scientific action plan will be prepared for reviving natural water sources in the Dwarahat region. Small dams will be constructed in the Gagas river as per local requirements.
Road Connectivity: Work will soon begin on the Jyolikot–Bhawali–Khairna–Majkhali–Dwarahat–Chaukhutia–Karnaprayag National Highway.
Healthcare Facilities: The capacity of the Community Health Center in Chaukhutia will be increased from 30 to 50 beds, and a digital X-ray machine will be installed.
Flood Protection: Embankments will be built on both sides of the Ramganga River near the Agniri temple.
Honoring Local Heroes:
Government Inter College, Dwarahat will be named after freedom fighter Dr. Inder Lal Sah.
The Ramgarh-Kunigarh motor road will be named after martyr Subedar Bhawani Dutt Joshi.
Cultural Promotion: A grant of ₹5 lakh was announced for organizing the Chaitra Ashtami fair.
Launch of Jageshwar Prasadam Yojana
During the event, CM Dhami launched the Jageshwar Prasadam Yojana under the Himotthan Yojana, initiated by District Magistrate Alok Kumar Pandey. The scheme aims to deliver a unique offering to devotees visiting Jageshwar Dham. The Prasad will include:
Bal Mithai made from pure hill khoya,
Traditional hill products like sesame and amaranth,
Specially minted copper coins bearing the image of Jageshwar Dham,
A booklet detailing the spiritual and historical significance of the temple.
This initiative not only promotes local copper artisanship but also strengthens the rural economy by involving women from self-help groups in the production process. The Chief Minister lauded this innovative effort.
Empowering Women through Livelihood Programs
CM Dhami also distributed certificates and financial assistance to women associated with various self-help groups under the National Rural Livelihood Mission and Himotthan Yojana. He emphasized the significance of the Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which aims to empower women financially by enhancing their income opportunities.
Strong Governance Measures
The Chief Minister underlined the state’s commitment to transparency and youth empowerment. He mentioned the implementation of a stringent anti-copying law in Uttarakhand, which has led to over 100 arrests of individuals involved in exam malpractices. This reform has ensured that deserving candidates now secure government jobs based on merit. Over the past three years, more than 22,000 youths have been appointed to government positions.
Leaders and Dignitaries Present
Union Minister of State for Road Transport, Ajay Tamta, addressed the gathering and highlighted the spiritual and historical significance of the Maa Agniri temple, which dates back to the 11th century. He appreciated CM Dhami’s decisive steps in governance and thanked the government for the ongoing development in the region.
Also present on the occasion were:
Regional MLA Madan Bisht
MLA Ranikhet Dr. Pramod Nainwal
Minister of State Shiv Singh Bisht
Vice President of State Women Entrepreneurship Council Ganga Bisht
Member of Migration Prevention Commission Anil Sahi
BDO Chaukhutia Kiran Bisht
Municipal Council President Revati Devi
Fair Committee President Kuldeep Bisht
Agniri Fair Committee President Dayal Singh
District Magistrate Alok Kumar Pandey
SSP Devendra Pincha
CDO Divesh Shashani, among others.
A large number of local residents also participated in the fair, which blended spirituality, cultural pride, and development aspirations into a single grand celebration.
