Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday directed officials to prepare a detailed roadmap for the early establishment of Spiritual Economic Zones in Uttarakhand. The initiative aims to conserve the state’s religious, cultural, and natural heritage while positioning Uttarakhand as a global center for spirituality, culture, and tourism.
Two Zones to Be Developed Across the State
During a meeting at the CM’s residence, Dhami emphasized that one Spiritual Economic Zone will be developed in each of the state’s two divisions. These zones will focus on holistic development around pilgrimage sites, safeguarding heritage structures, and promoting eco-friendly tourism. The project is expected to generate new employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth and boost the state’s economy.
Focus on Heritage Conservation and Holistic Development
The Chief Minister highlighted that the zones will integrate religious, cultural, and natural heritage preservation with sustainable development. Officials were instructed to begin implementation within the current financial year, ensuring a concrete action plan and regular monitoring of every phase of the project.
Promotion of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Local Handicrafts
The CM outlined that the zones will promote yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, natural therapies, local handicrafts, hill products, and cultural events. He stressed that these measures will enrich Uttarakhand’s tourism landscape, reinforce its identity as a spiritual capital, and enhance the livelihood of local communities.
Strengthening Winter Tourism Infrastructure
Chief Minister Dhami also emphasized improving winter tourism facilities across the state. He instructed officials to expand basic amenities, strengthen transportation and safety arrangements, and ensure a seamless travel experience for tourists. Efforts will be made to widely promote winter destinations using both traditional and modern media, reaching audiences across India and abroad.
Officials and Stakeholders Attend Strategic Planning Session
The meeting was attended virtually by Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj and included key officials such as Badri Kedar Temple Committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, Principal Secretary RK Sudhanshu, Dr. R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Secretary Shailesh Bagoli, Dheeraj Singh Garjyal, Local Commissioner Ajay Mishra, and Additional Secretary Abhishek Rohilla.
A Vision for Sustainable Spiritual Tourism
The Spiritual Economic Zone initiative represents a strategic step toward sustainable tourism development in Uttarakhand. By integrating heritage conservation, cultural promotion, and local economic growth, the state aims to offer a globally competitive spiritual and cultural tourism experience while improving the quality of life for its residents.
