Kotabag: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the two-day Ghoda Library Pahad Pachhyad Festival at Atal Utkrisht Rainka, Kotabag, in Kaladhungi Assembly constituency. During the event, CM Dhami announced development projects worth ₹114.69 crore for Nainital, Kaladhungi, and Haldwani regions. He praised the Ghoda Library initiative for promoting folk culture, books, and nature, urging children to connect with literature and their cultural heritage.
Ghoda Library: Bringing Knowledge to Remote Hills
CM Dhami congratulated the energetic team behind the Ghoda Library for successfully organizing the festival dedicated to books, culture, and nature. He emphasized that the unique library project is a ray of hope for children living in remote mountainous regions, bringing the light of knowledge to their homes despite difficult terrain and limited resources. Beyond delivering books, the initiative inspires young minds, helping them shape their future and dreams while instilling values, knowledge, and service.
Cultural and Spiritual Initiatives
After arriving at the venue from Dehradun via helipad, the Chief Minister performed rituals at the Hanuman Temple, praying for the peace and prosperity of the region. The event commenced with a ceremonial lamp lighting. CM Dhami highlighted that the festival connects students with their folk culture, books, and nature, providing a platform for learning and creativity.
Education and Skill Development Focus
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of modernizing the education system and making books an integral part of students’ lives. He highlighted initiatives like the “State Curriculum Framework” for basic education and the inclusion of “Bastarahit Day” in schools to promote creativity. To preserve local languages and culture, books in Garhwali, Kumaoni, Jaunsari, Tharu, Boksa, and Rawalti have been developed, alongside dictionaries in these languages. CM Dhami also announced the “Kaushalm” program to enhance children’s skills, entrepreneurship, and knowledge of Indian traditions.
He urged students to see books not just as study material but as a lifelong companion that will shape their character, thinking, and future.
Development Projects Launched and Foundation Stones Laid
CM Dhami inaugurated two projects worth ₹1.95 crore and laid foundation stones for 10 projects totaling ₹112.73 crore. Highlights include:
- Construction of a veterinary hospital in Nainital (₹91.23 lakh)
- Renovation of the ancient Hanuman Temple in Anwalakot, Kotabag (₹1.04 crore)
- Construction of 33/11 KV substations and 33 KV lines in Kaladhungi, Haldwani, and Kathgodam areas (₹77.90 crore)
- Road construction and widening projects across Nainital and Kaladhungi constituencies (₹29.13 crore)
- School and college infrastructure improvements, including leveling of playgrounds and boundary walls (₹95.90 lakh)
CM Highlights State Development and Cultural Preservation
CM Dhami reiterated that under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, Uttarakhand is setting new benchmarks in development and prosperity. He emphasized the state government’s focus on infrastructure in education, health, drinking water, roads, and electricity, along with preservation and promotion of Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage. Efforts are underway to restore and beautify historic temples in Manaskhand and Kedarkhand, including Naina Devi, Kanchidham, Hanumangarhi, and Mukteshwar Dham.
Notable Attendees
The event saw the presence of several dignitaries including:
- MP Ajay Bhatt
- MLA Banshidhar Bhagat (Kaladhungi)
- Nainital MLA Sarita Arya
- Ramnagar MLA Diwan Singh Bisht
- Lal Kuan MLA Mohan Singh Bisht
- Haldwani Mayor Gajraj Bisht
- BJP District President Pratap Bisht
- State Government officials including Dr. Anil Kapoor (Dabbu), Minister Suresh Bhatt
- Ghoda Library team led by Shubham Badhani
- Other senior BJP leaders, local representatives, and community members
The festival and associated development initiatives reflect the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to education, cultural preservation, and regional development, making resources accessible to remote areas while enhancing infrastructure and skill development opportunities for students.
