Dehradun: Vice President of India, Mr. C. P. Radhakrishnan, has said that the coming two decades will be decisive in shaping India as a self-reliant and developed nation, and Uttarakhand will play a special and strategic role in this national journey. Highlighting the state’s immense potential in renewable energy, organic farming, AYUSH, tourism, startups and skill development, he expressed confidence that under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand will scale new heights of development.
The Vice President was speaking at the inauguration of the Jagran Forum in Dehradun on Saturday. The event was organised to mark the completion of 25 years of the formation of Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand: A Symbol of Sacrifice and National Service
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Radhakrishnan described Uttarakhand as a land that embodies sacrifice, resilience and national service. He congratulated the people of the state on completing 25 years and termed the milestone a moment of pride and reflection.
Recalling the formation of Uttarakhand, he said the creation of the state was a democratic response to the long-standing aspirations of the hill people and a strong affirmation of India’s federal structure. Sharing a personal note, he said he had voted in favour of the Uttarakhand statehood Bill while serving as a Member of the Lok Sabha.
Devbhoomi’s Spiritual, Cultural and Ecological Significance
Highlighting the spiritual importance of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the Vice President said the state holds a unique place in India’s civilisational consciousness. Referring to Vedic and Puranic traditions, he remarked that Uttarakhand reflects the essence of Satyam, Shivam and Sundaram.
He also underlined the ecological significance of the state, noting that its glaciers, rivers and forests sustain life far beyond its geographical boundaries and make Uttarakhand vital for environmental balance across northern India.
Unprecedented Infrastructure Growth
The Vice President said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand has witnessed unprecedented progress in road, rail, air and digital connectivity. These developments, he said, are strengthening the state’s economic foundation and improving access to remote and border areas.
While stressing the importance of development, he also emphasised the need for environmental responsibility. He appreciated Uttarakhand’s focus on green development, especially in solar energy, and lauded the state for being the first in the country to conceptualise the Gross Environmental Product (GEP) alongside Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Strong Contribution to National Security
Acknowledging Uttarakhand’s contribution to national defence, the Vice President said a large number of officers and soldiers in the Indian Armed Forces hail from the state. He highlighted the strategic importance of Uttarakhand’s border villages, describing them not as the last outposts but as the first line of strength, heritage and resilience.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision, he recalled how Mana village has been described as the “first village of India”, symbolising confidence and pride in border regions.
Uttarakhand’s Role in Viksit Bharat 2047
Looking ahead to India’s goal of becoming an Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat by 2047, Mr. Radhakrishnan said Uttarakhand occupies a unique position. He pointed to vast opportunities in renewable energy, organic agriculture, horticulture, traditional knowledge systems, AYUSH, ecotourism, startups and skill development as key growth drivers for the state.
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