Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday announced a series of development projects aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving civic amenities in the Jaunsar-Bawar region. The announcements were made during his participation in the Jaunsar-Bawar Folk Cultural Festival and Sports Meet 2026, held at Freedom Fighter Kedar Singh Stadium in Naghat, Dehradun.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the statue of late freedom fighter Kedar Singh and emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural and historical identity of the region.
Cultural Pride of Jaunsar-Bawar Highlighted
Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami praised the Jaunsar-Bawar Sanskritik Punrutthan Samiti for preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage for the past 33 years. He noted that Jaunsar-Bawar is known not only for its scenic beauty but also for its hardworking, simple, and self-respecting communities.
He said that folk traditions such as Raso, Harul, and Baund represent the cultural pride of Uttarakhand and the entire nation. According to him, these traditions continue to promote unity and inspire younger generations to stay connected with their roots.
The Chief Minister added that Jaunsar-Bawar reflects the true spirit of Uttarakhand, where simplicity, warmth, and respect for nature remain deeply embedded in daily life.
Government Push for Tribal Welfare and Education
CM Dhami highlighted several initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for tribal welfare. He mentioned schemes such as:
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools
- Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan
- Van Dhan Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Tribal Development Mission
He stated that these programs have significantly improved education, dignity, and livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.
In Uttarakhand, the government is also organizing the Uttarakhand Tribal Festival and has decided to conduct an annual Tribal Sports Festival to promote tribal culture and talent.
Expansion of Education Infrastructure in Tribal Regions
The Chief Minister informed that under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, 128 tribal villages in Uttarakhand have been identified for comprehensive development. These villages are being provided with improved connectivity and access to basic facilities including roads, electricity, drinking water, and internet services.
He further stated that Eklavya Model Residential Schools are currently operational in Kalsi, Mehrawana, Bajpur, and Khatima, offering free world-class residential education to tribal children. New Eklavya schools are also under construction in Bajpur and Chakrata.
Additionally, the state government is providing scholarships from primary education to postgraduate levels. Sixteen Ashram-style schools are also functioning to support educational development in tribal areas.
Key Infrastructure Projects Announced
During the event, CM Dhami announced several infrastructure and connectivity projects aimed at improving rural access and regional development:
- Widening and blacktopping of Samarjens Motor Road
- Development of Government Primary School Nagthat as a model school
- Construction of a 60-meter span bridge over the Yamuna River on the Bagi-Kheda-Kota-Taplad road in Chakrata block
- New motor road from Km 22 of Kyarapul-Damta-Myunda road to Chhamri and Jakhani
- Motor road from Sakrol village to Siddh Peeth Mahasu Maharaj Thaina via Bhoda-Bhalanu and Utel in Kalsi block
- Inclusion of Jagthan-Burayla route to Udawa village under PMGSY
- New link road from Dweena to Bisoi Khuna Alman
He also announced a pumping-based drinking water scheme from the Yamuna River for Kheda Ramarka-Kunna-Burashthi villages in Chakrata block.
Large-Scale Development in Chakrata and Surrounding Areas
The Chief Minister informed that 56 development projects worth approximately ₹39 crore have been approved for Chakrata, out of which 51 have already been completed and the remaining are nearing completion.
He also noted that development works worth over ₹1,300 crore are currently underway to strengthen the road network across the region.
Key ongoing projects include:
- Widening of National Highways 707 and 707A
- Permanent solution to landslide issues near Jajred on Kalsi-Chakrata road
- New Chakrata Township Hayyo Danda Pumping Scheme worth ₹229 crore
- ₹120 crore master plan for redevelopment of Mahasu Devta Temple complex
These projects aim to improve connectivity, tourism, water security, and infrastructure in the hilly regions.
Focus on Tribal Welfare Support Measures
The state government is also supporting tribal communities through additional welfare initiatives. CM Dhami stated that tribal daughters are being provided financial assistance of ₹50,000 for marriage. A corpus fund of ₹1 crore has been established for the Tribal Research Institute to support research and cultural preservation.
