Perched in the Himalayan foothills, Sarkot village has been transformed into a beacon of sustainable development under Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Model Village Programme. Adopted by Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami, Sarkot is now being hailed as a successful blueprint for rural development rooted in self-reliance, cultural preservation, and economic revival.
Strategic Leadership and Vision
The transformation was orchestrated through the leadership of District Magistrate Mr. Sandip Tiwari (2017-batch IAS officer), who coordinated multi-departmental upgrades in agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure. “This wasn’t just about building roads, it was about creating an ecosystem where villagers envision their future here,” Mr. Tiwari said.
Agriculture: From Fallow to Flourishing
Sarkot, once known for unused farmland and youth migration, now boasts 100% land utilisation. Farmers have adopted polyhouse farming, mushroom cultivation, fruit orchards, and food processing units, resulting in stable incomes. “We earn today from mushrooms, dairy, and fruits,” said local farmer Mr. Harish Rawal.
Infrastructure, Livelihood & Tourism Growth
Major developments include the Sarkot-Bhararsain motor road (named after war hero Havildar Vasudev Singh), solar-powered streetlights, complete sanitation coverage, and SHG-run packaging units. The tourism sector is also thriving, drawing visitors through homestays, traditional dances, and the Kot Bhairav Temple.
Culture, Sustainability, and Reverse Migration
The village balances tradition and sustainability through Aipan-adorned homes, symbolic colours, water conservation, and zero-waste practices. “There’s not one locked house in the village anymore,” said teacher Meena Devi, pointing to the reversal of migration.
A Model to Follow
CM Mr. Dhami praised Sarkot as proof that when communities lead the change, sustainable development becomes reality. The Sarkot model is now inspiring replication across other districts, showing that tradition and modernity can thrive side by side.
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