CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, while attending the 25th meeting of the Central Zonal Council held in Varanasi, placed several important issues related to Uttarakhand before the Central Government. He said Uttarakhand is strategically important as the state shares international borders. There is a need to expand facilities like roads, communication, security and logistics in the border areas to prevent migration and ensure regional development.
The Chief Minister asked the Centre to strengthen facilities in border villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme, Bharat Net Scheme, 4G extension project and satellite communication services. He appealed for release of one-time grant in Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, additional assistance for Pradhan Mantri Gramme Sadak Yojana and support in setting up of Glacier Study Centre, Institute of Biodiversity Conservation and International Adventure Sports Training Centre.
The Chief Minister also sought the Centre’s support for the successful conduct of the Nanda Rajjat Yatra in 2026 and Haridwar Kumbh in 2027. He informed that despite geographical challenges and limited resources, the economy of the state has grown more than 1.5 times and Uttarakhand has secured first position in NITI Aayog’s SDG ranking and second position in the category of small states in CARE Ratings.
The Chief Minister said that the Uniform Civil Code, strict laws against copying, conversion and riots have been implemented in the state. More than three lakh youth have been linked to self-employment under the promotion of local products, cultural heritage, skill development and self-reliance. To develop Uttarakhand as an AYUSH and Wellness Hub, India’s first Yoga Policy has been launched and it has been decided to create two Spiritual Economic Zones.
The Chief Minister said that with the cooperation of the Central Government, development schemes are progressing successfully in the state. He expressed satisfaction that the Council meetings have strengthened coordination among States and led to historic achievements in the areas of cooperation, security and development.