Rudrapur, Uttarakhand: In a significant step toward the social and economic empowerment of Scheduled Caste (SC) artisans, the Pushkar Singh Dhami-led Uttarakhand government has completed the construction of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bhawan in Rudrapur. This multi-purpose complex, built at a cost of ₹3.14 crore, is strategically located on the Kichha Bypass. It is designed to provide a dedicated marketplace for SC artisans to sell their handmade products and access skill development resources.
Three-Tier Audit to Precede Handover to Social Welfare Department
Before the facility is officially transferred to the Social Welfare Department, it will undergo a three-tier audit to ensure that construction standards, facilities, and financial compliance meet required norms. The implementing agency, Mandi Parishad, will hand over the building only after the audit report is approved.
“Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bhawan is ready. A proposal was brought by the Mandi Parishad to transfer it to the department, but the department will take it only after investigation by the three-tier committee. A committee will be formed at the directorate level soon.”
– Aman Anirudh, District Social Welfare Officer
Facilities & Features of Ambedkar Bhawan
The multi-storey structure is designed to cater to commercial, educational, and residential needs of SC artisans:
Ground Floor
13 shops to be allotted to SC artisans at minimal fees.
First Floor:
4 multipurpose halls suitable for training sessions, workshops, and seminars.
Second Floor:
Dormitory facilities and an office room to provide temporary residential support to visiting artisans. Nominal charges will apply for utilities like electricity and water.
PPP Model and Outsourced Operations
After the official handover, Uttarakhand Multipurpose Finance and Development Corporation will manage the complex through outsourcing, operating under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This is aimed at ensuring efficient maintenance and utilization of the infrastructure.
Priority to Scheduled Caste Artisans in Shop Allotment
In the first phase, shop allotments will prioritize artisans from the Scheduled Caste category. In case of a shortage of eligible SC applicants, up to 30% of the shops may be allotted to general category artisans, though at a fee four times higher than that charged to SC artisans.
This differential pricing is intended to maintain the original social objective of the Bhawan, while still allowing for full commercial utilization of the space.
Significance for SC Community in Uttarakhand
The initiative reflects the state government’s broader vision of inclusive economic development and support for marginalized communities through infrastructure and entrepreneurship. Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bhawan is expected to become a hub for local skill promotion, training, marketing, and inter-community collaboration.
