Tehri Garhwal: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday inaugurated the Gaja Ghantakarn Mahotsav 2026 (Second Edition) at Atal Utkrisht Government Inter College, Gaja, and announced a series of major development initiatives aimed at boosting infrastructure, tourism, education, healthcare, and connectivity in the region.
The Chief Minister also offered prayers at the ancient Ghantakarn Mahadev Temple and paid tribute to state movement martyr Belmati Chauhan. He said the festival reflects Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage and strengthens its spiritual identity.
Ropeway to Ghantakarn Temple to Boost Religious Tourism
One of the key announcements was the construction of a ropeway to Ghantakarn Mahadev Temple, aimed at improving access for devotees and promoting religious tourism in the region.
CM Dhami said the project will make pilgrimage easier and enhance the tourism potential of the area.
Road, Stadium Expansion and Infrastructure Upgrades Announced
To improve local infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced:
- Construction of internal roads in Gaja Nagar Panchayat area
- Expansion and stage construction at Gaja ground
- Approval of multiple motor roads, including Dandeli–Andarfi Gaon–Phalsari–Bimaan and Ranakot Danda Jamola routes
These projects are expected to improve connectivity and strengthen rural infrastructure in the region.
Focus on Education and Skill Development
In a major push for education, CM Dhami announced:
- Introduction of Pharmacy course at Shaheed Vikram Singh Negi Government Polytechnic, Gaja
- Upgradation of Government Higher Secondary Schools in Singhtali and Pajay village to Inter level
- Upgradation of Narendra Nagar College to PG level
These steps aim to expand higher education access and skill development opportunities for local youth.
Healthcare and Public Facility Enhancements
Strengthening healthcare services, the Chief Minister announced:
- Upgradation of Chaka Women’s Hospital into a Primary Health Centre (PHC)
- Strengthening of community building in Chaka
- Establishment of Tehsil-level offices for PWD, electricity, Jal Sansthan, and Jal Nigam in Gaja
These initiatives are expected to improve healthcare access and administrative efficiency in rural areas.
Tourism and Eco-Development Projects
To promote sustainable tourism, CM Dhami announced:
- Development of Koteshwar Lake
- Construction of an Eco Park in Dandachali
- Beautification of Pawki Devi and Chamrada Devi temples
- Approval of 33 KV sub-station at Gaja Bagid
- Construction of a lake on Henval River
These projects aim to strengthen eco-tourism and boost the local economy.
Cultural Heritage and Development Go Hand in Hand
Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami said that events like the Gaja Ghantakarn Mahotsav play a vital role in preserving Uttarakhand’s folk traditions, cultural identity, and spiritual values.
He praised cultural performances by school children and said Uttarakhand’s traditional attire, art, and cuisine are key elements of its identity.
Government’s Vision for Uttarakhand Development
The Chief Minister highlighted ongoing development work in the state under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including improvements in religious tourism, connectivity, and infrastructure.
He also mentioned schemes such as homestays, wedding destinations, and “House of Himalayas,” aimed at promoting tourism and women empowerment.
CM Dhami reiterated that the government is working to make Uttarakhand a safe, prosperous, and self-reliant state with expanded opportunities in education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
Local Leaders Welcome Development Announcements
Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal and local representatives welcomed the announcements and thanked the Chief Minister for upgrading the local PHC and promoting rural development initiatives.
Officials said the projects will significantly enhance employment opportunities and public infrastructure in the region.
About Gaja Ghantakarn Mahotsav
The festival showcased Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage through folk music, traditional dance, devotional songs, and street plays. Various government departments also set up stalls to inform citizens about welfare schemes.
The event witnessed participation from local representatives, officials, students, and a large number of residents.
