Dehradun: Uttarakhand Seeks ADB Support for Skill Centres, Infrastructure & Urban Development
The Uttarakhand government is set to accelerate its development agenda in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with a focus on skill development, infrastructure, and urban expansion.
A high-level meeting held at the Secretariat, chaired by Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan, reviewed ongoing projects and outlined key proposals for future funding support from ADB.
Model Skill Centres Proposed in Every District
One of the most significant proposals discussed was the establishment of Model Skill Centres in every district.
The Chief Secretary emphasized that these centres will:
- Go beyond basic training
- Provide certification-based courses
- Ensure 100% placement for trainees
The initiative aims to curb migration by creating employment opportunities within the state, especially for youth from hill regions.
Focus on Bridges and Landslide Mitigation
Recognising Uttarakhand’s geographical challenges, the government has sought ADB support for:
- Construction of new bridges across the state
- Landslide mitigation projects in vulnerable areas
These measures are expected to significantly improve connectivity and disaster resilience in the hill state.
Tehri Lake Ring Road Project Gets Priority
The meeting also highlighted the importance of the Tehri Lake Ring Road project, for which ADB funding has been proposed.
The project is expected to:
- Strengthen regional connectivity
- Boost tourism potential in the Tehri region
Horticulture and Urban Development Plans
The Chief Secretary proposed expanding ADB collaboration in:
- Horticulture sector projects
- Urban mobility and planning initiatives
He also directed departments to prepare proposals for:
- Greenfield townships
- Brownfield urban redevelopment projects
This comes amid rising urbanisation and growing housing demand.
Balanced Funding Strategy with JICA Consideration
Officials clarified that districts already receiving assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency(JICA) will be excluded from new ADB proposals to ensure balanced resource allocation across the state.
Departments Asked to Submit Phased, Time-Bound Proposals
Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan directed all departments to:
- Prioritise key projects
- Submit phased proposals
- Ensure proposals are practical and time-bound
This approach is aimed at expediting approvals and ensuring efficient implementation.
ADB Assures Support, Seeks Quick Action
ADB Country Director Mio Oka expressed satisfaction with ongoing projects in Uttarakhand and appreciated the state’s forward-looking proposals.
She urged departments to submit proposals promptly to facilitate faster financing and execution.
High-Level Participation
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including:
- Principal Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram
- Secretaries Nitesh Kumar Jha, Dr. Pankaj Kumar Pandey, and Dilip Jawalkar
- ADB representatives and departmental officials
Towards Accelerated Development
With a strong focus on employment, infrastructure, and urban planning, the Uttarakhand government’s collaboration with ADB is expected to play a crucial role in driving sustainable and inclusive development across the state.
