Khatima, UK: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Uttarayani Kautik Fair in Khatima on Tuesday and announced the construction of a Hill Development Building in the region. The CM emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating development, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring law and order in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
Hill Development Building and Infrastructure Initiatives
During the event, organized by the Kumaon Cultural Upliftment Forum at the Terai Seed Corporation complex, CM Dhami directed the District Magistrate to identify suitable land for the Hill Development Building. He also announced –
- Construction of a stage for future events at the fair
- Inclusion of the Uttarayani Kautik Fair in the official state calendar with financial assistance
He underlined that these initiatives are part of a broader plan to ensure continuous development in Khatima.
Cultural Significance of Uttarayani and Makar Sankranti
CM Dhami highlighted the spiritual and scientific importance of Makar Sankranti, describing it as the day marking the northward movement of the sun and honoring Surya Narayan (Sun God). He stressed that festivals like Uttarayani help the younger generation connect with cultural roots, as children, youth, and women participate in folk dances, songs, and traditional attire.
“The festival of Uttarayani is not just a celebration, but a preservation of our culture, faith, and philosophy of life. It brings new energy, hope, and beginnings into our lives,” Dhami said.
He emphasized that modernity must coexist with cultural preservation, aligning with PM Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, aur Sabka Prayas.”
Accelerating Development in Khatima
CM Dhami listed several key projects completed or underway in Khatima –
- High-tech bus station, modern ITI, polytechnic college, and 100-bed hospital complex
- National-level sports stadium for nurturing youth talent
- Gadarpur and Khatima bypasses, bridge in Nausar, and extensive road network
- Announcement of a grand military memorial between Khatima and Tanakpur
- Expansion of education with M.Com and M.Sc. classes at the Government Degree College and operation of an Eklavya school in tribal areas
He pledged that the pace of development in Khatima will never slow down and highlighted the state’s achievement in reducing unemployment by 4.4 percent in one year, surpassing the national average.
Law, Order, and Anti-Corruption Measures
CM Dhami outlined the government’s strict policies to protect Uttarakhand’s culture, demography, and law and order –
- Action against land jihad, love jihad, and spitting jihad
- Implementation of anti-riot and anti-conversion laws
- Recovery of over 10,000 acres of government land from mafias
- Sealing of 250 illegal madrasas and demolition of 500 illegal structures
- Operation Kalnemi against charlatans defaming Sanatan Dharma
- Over 200 corrupt individuals jailed in the last four and a half years
Economic and Social Achievements
The CM emphasized the state’s economic growth and social welfare achievements –
- Uttarakhand’s economy has grown 26 times since formation; state budget now exceeds ₹1 lakh crore
- Electricity production quadrupled, roads length doubled, and 10 government and private medical colleges operational
- Over 42,000 solar rooftop plants installed, achieving the 2027 target in 2025
- 100% Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) implemented for schemes like Nanda Gaura, helping 40,000 daughters receive over ₹172 crore
Women’s Empowerment: A Firm Commitment
CM Dhami addressed women directly, calling them the custodians of Uttarakhand’s culture, emphasizing their role in strengthening society:
“Women’s empowerment is not just a slogan but a firm commitment. Together, we aim to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country, and I am confident of your support in achieving this goal.”
