Khatima: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday interacted with panchayat and urban local body representatives during the ‘Jan Jan Ki Sarkar, Mukhyamantri Samvad’ programme held at the Khatima block auditorium, where he outlined key rural development, infrastructure, and governance initiatives of the state government.
The Chief Minister emphasized that villages are the backbone of India and that the nation’s progress depends on strengthening rural areas and small towns.
Villages Central to India’s Development Vision
Addressing the gathering, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 can only be achieved by empowering rural economies.
He said both the Centre and state governments are working in coordination to strengthen villages through various welfare and development schemes aimed at self-reliance and inclusive growth.
Focus on Rural Welfare and Self-Employment Schemes
The Chief Minister highlighted several key schemes supporting rural development, including:
- Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
- National Rural Livelihood Mission
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
He also mentioned state-level initiatives such as the House of Himalayas brand, State Millet Mission, Apple Mission, tourism and film policies, homestay promotion, and solar self-employment schemes.
He noted that over 2.65 lakh women in Uttarakhand have become “Lakhpati Didis” through self-help groups and rural entrepreneurship programmes.
Major Infrastructure Push in Khatima Region
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami detailed several ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects in the Khatima region, including:
- Gadarpur–Khatima bypass
- Bridges and road network expansion
- Modern bus stand
- Kendriya Vidyalaya
- Sports stadium
- ITI and polytechnic college
- 100-bed hospital
He also announced plans for a military memorial between Khatima and Tanakpur, along with major projects such as the AIIMS Rishikesh satellite centre in Kichha, Pantnagar international airport, and industrial developments in Sitarganj, Kashipur, and Khurpia.
Development Projects Worth ₹89 Lakh Inaugurated
During the programme, the Chief Minister inaugurated development works worth approximately ₹89 lakh. These included a modern ‘Didi Ki Library’, renovation of a gymnasium, and upgrades to the block auditorium.
He said the library will support students and competitive exam aspirants by providing better study resources and a conducive learning environment.
“Education is the strongest foundation for the progress of any society,” he said.
Strong Stand on Governance and Legal Reforms
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami also highlighted governance measures taken by the state government, including:
- Anti-copying law enforcement
- Removal of encroachments
- Implementation of Uniform Civil Code initiatives
- Action against illegal madrasas and land encroachments
He said these steps are aimed at ensuring transparency, discipline, and long-term social reform in the state.
Strengthening Villages for a Developed Uttarakhand
The ‘Jan Jan Ki Sarkar’ programme reaffirmed the Uttarakhand government’s focus on rural empowerment, infrastructure development, and governance reforms. CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reiterated that strengthening villages is essential to achieving a prosperous and developed India by 2047.
