CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Releases Development Booklet ‘Strong Leadership, Soaring Heights of Development’ on Uttarakhand Foundation Day
Publication highlights Uttarakhand’s development journey, welfare initiatives and government achievements
True development is reflected in positive changes in the lives of ordinary people: CM Dhami
State moving rapidly towards a developed and self-reliant Uttarakhand under PM Narendra Modi’s guidance
Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami released the 2026 development booklet titled ‘Sashakt Netritva, Vikas Ki Unchi Udaan’ (Strong Leadership, Soaring Heights of Development), published by the Department of Information and Public Relations, during the Uttarakhand State Foundation Day celebrations held at Gorkha Military Inter College, Garhi Cantt, Dehradun, on Monday.
Congratulating the people of Uttarakhand on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the publication presents an account of the state’s development journey, welfare schemes and achievements across various sectors. He described it not merely as a compilation of government achievements but also as an important document reflecting the government’s accountability towards the people and its responsibilities for the future.
CM Pays Tribute to Uttarakhand Statehood Movement Martyrs
The Chief Minister paid homage to the martyrs and activists who played a significant role in the movement for a separate Uttarakhand. He said the creation of the state was the result of a prolonged public struggle, sacrifice and determination. He particularly acknowledged the significant contribution of women in the statehood movement.
Recalling former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Dhami said that the dream of a separate Uttarakhand became a reality under his leadership. He added that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state is consistently working towards becoming prosperous, developed and self-reliant.
Development Must Bring Positive Changes to People’s Lives
Emphasising the broader meaning of development, the Chief Minister said that progress cannot be measured merely through the number of schemes or economic figures. Its real success lies in the positive difference it makes to the everyday lives of ordinary citizens.
He explained that improved road connectivity in villages facilitates access to healthcare and education, modern facilities in schools create better opportunities for children, and local employment opportunities help address migration.
The government’s primary objective, he said, is to reduce people’s difficulties, improve the quality of life of every family and ensure that the benefits of development reach all parts of the state.
Infrastructure Projects Strengthening Connectivity
Dhami said that infrastructure development in Uttarakhand has accelerated with the support of the Central Government. Major projects, including the Char Dham All-Weather Road Project, Delhi-Dehradun Expressway and Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Railway Project, are providing fresh momentum to the state’s connectivity and economic development.
Expansion of air and helicopter services is also improving access to remote areas. Better connectivity is expected to create additional opportunities in tourism, trade, investment and local employment.
Healthcare and Education Infrastructure Being Strengthened
The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to improving healthcare and educational facilities. Efforts are underway to achieve the target of establishing a medical college in every district.
The expansion of specialised medical facilities in Dehradun, Haldwani and Srinagar, along with the proposed development of facilities such as the AIIMS satellite centre in Kichha, will further strengthen healthcare services.
In education, the government is focusing on equipping schools with smart classrooms, modern technology and improved academic resources to provide students with quality learning opportunities.
Uttarakhand Gaining Recognition in Tourism and Sports
Dhami said the successful organisation of G20 meetings in Uttarakhand enhanced the state’s international visibility, while the successful hosting of the 38th National Games showcased its sporting talent and organisational capabilities at the national level.
He highlighted initiatives such as the Manaskhand Temple Mala Mission, winter pilgrimage and development of new tourist destinations. These efforts aim to promote tourism throughout the year and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The government intends to ensure that tourism benefits local communities, homestay operators, small traders, young people and the rural economy.
Investment and Economic Growth Receiving a Boost
The Chief Minister said the Global Investors Summit has strengthened investment prospects in Uttarakhand, and continuous efforts are being made to translate investment proposals into actual projects on the ground.
According to estimates for 2025-26, the state’s economy is valued at approximately ₹3.82 lakh crore, while the budget for 2026-27 exceeds ₹1.11 lakh crore.
He said the government’s priority is to ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach farmers, youth, women and local entrepreneurs.
Women’s Empowerment and Reverse Migration
Dhami said several initiatives are being implemented to strengthen women’s self-help groups, promote self-employment and provide better market access to locally manufactured products.
He also highlighted a reported 44 per cent increase in reverse migration in the state. The government is working to improve infrastructure, employment opportunities and livelihood options in villages so that young people can build their futures without having to leave their hometowns.
Focus on Uniform Civil Code and Protection of Citizens’ Interests
The Chief Minister said the state government is equally committed to protecting Uttarakhand’s cultural identity, natural resources and citizens’ rights alongside development.
He highlighted the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in the state, along with measures such as stringent anti-conversion legislation, anti-riot legislation, land laws and action against illegal encroachments.
According to him, these decisions have been taken keeping the broader interests of the state and its people in mind.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to a Developed Uttarakhand
Dhami said that the government’s achievements provide satisfaction but also inspire it to take on greater responsibilities and work harder.
He emphasised continued efforts to improve facilities in every village, create new employment opportunities, make agriculture more remunerative and strengthen disaster management preparedness.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister quoted lines from the poem ‘Abhi Bahut Aage Humein Jaana Hai’ (We Have a Long Way to Go), reiterating his commitment to building a developed and self-reliant Uttarakhand in accordance with the dreams of the statehood movement activists.
Prime Minister’s Greetings Read Out at the Ceremony
On the occasion, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari read out the congratulatory message sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people of Uttarakhand on State Foundation Day.
Among those present were Rajya Sabha MP and BJP Uttarakhand President Mahendra Bhatt; Cabinet Ministers Subodh Uniyal, Ganesh Joshi and Khajan Das; MLAs Vinod Chamoli and Savita Kapoor; Dehradun Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal; Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan; Principal Secretaries R.K. Sudhanshu and Dr R. Meenakshi Sundaram; Information Secretary Shailesh Bagauli; Chairman of the Uttarakhand Media Advisory Committee Prof. Govind Singh Bisht; Secretary Vinay Shankar Pandey; Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari and other dignitaries.
