Uttarakhand Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami, in a meeting at his official residence on Tuesday, directed officials to encourage the use of goods manufactured within the state. According to a release from the Chief Minister’s Office, he stressed that strengthening the trust in Swadeshi products will boost the local economy and create new growth opportunities.
Mr. Dhami highlighted that adopting local products aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s self-reliant India initiative. He said that prioritising domestic goods will generate both employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth, while also fostering economic resilience in Uttarakhand.
Expansion of Heli Services Under UDAN Scheme
In a significant step toward improving connectivity, Uttarakhand is set to expand its heli network. A new helicopter service between Pithoragarh and Munsyari is expected to begin by September 30 under the UDAN scheme. The Central Government has appointed Heritage Aviation to operate the service on this route.
The Chief Minister had earlier sought the support of Union Civil Aviation Minister Mr. Ram Mohan Naidu for enhancing heli services. Following this, the Union Minister confirmed in a letter that Heritage Aviation will also be given preliminary consent to operate on the Pithoragarh-Dharchula-Pithoragarh route. Preparations are underway to develop the required helipad in Dharchula.
Additionally, if airlines propose a Pithoragarh-Delhi heli service under the UDAN scheme, the government has assured that it will be considered positively.
Railway Expansion in Uttarakhand
In parallel, Union Railway Minister Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw has communicated to the Chief Minister that the Ministry of Railways is conducting a feasibility study for operating the Achhnera-Tanakpur special train, responding to the long-standing demand of the state government. Once the study is complete, further steps will be taken to improve rail connectivity in the region.
Government’s Commitment to Development
The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to both Union Ministers for supporting the expansion of Uttarakhand’s heli and rail networks. He said that these steps will not only improve connectivity in remote areas but also accelerate tourism, employment generation, and overall economic development in the state.
