Uttarakhand CM Raises Critical State Issues At Central Zonal Council Meeting In Varanasi

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted several crucial issues concerning the state during the 25th meeting of the Central Zonal Council, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Varanasi. Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh were also present.

Key Points Raised by the Chief Minister Dhami:

Strategic Border Area Development:

Emphasized the need to expand road, communication, security, and logistics infrastructure in Uttarakhand’s international border regions. He sought increased assistance through the Border Roads Organization and urged development of border villages under the Vibrant Village Program to curb migration.

Communication Network Expansion:

Requested initiation of the Bharat Net Yojana, 4G expansion, and satellite-based communication in remote areas.

Policy Support & Infrastructure Demands:

• Sought relaxation in certain central policy provisions specific to the state’s geography.

• Requested technical and financial support for:

• One-time allocation under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

• Strengthening of Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana

• Establishment of a Glacier Study Center and Biodiversity Conservation Institute

• Creation of an International Adventure Sports Training Center

Cultural and Religious Events Support:

Urged the Centre to extend cooperation for the Nanda Raj Jat Yatra (2026) and Kumbh Mela (2027) for their grand and successful organization.

Sustainable Development and Recognition:

Highlighted that 71% of the state’s area is forested, with about 80% mountainous terrain, which limits economic activity. Despite this, the state has achieved:

• 1.5 times growth in its economy

• Top SDG ranking by NITI Aayog (2023-24)

• Second place in small states category for governance and financial management (Care Age Rating Report)

• Progressive State Legislation:

Mentioned implementation of:

• Uniform Civil Code

• Anti-copying, anti-conversion, anti-riot, and land laws

• Extensive self-employment initiatives for youth, benefiting over three lakh individuals

• Wellness and AYUSH Development:

• Launch of India’s first ‘Yoga Policy’

• Plan to establish two Spiritual Economic Zones for promoting Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Yoga, and Spiritual Tourism

Acknowledgment of Central Support:

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the central government’s continuous cooperation, which has enabled the state to carry forward various development and policy initiatives effectively.