As Uttarakhand celebrates 25 years of its formation, Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami unveiled a series of transformative announcements aimed at accelerating the state’s development. Addressing the media at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state office in Dehradun, the Chief Minister said that the government’s focus is to make Uttarakhand a “Developed State” before it reaches its golden jubilee in 2050.
Among the key announcements was the commencement of a trial rail service between Rishikesh and Byasi under the Rishikesh-Karnprayag Rail Project by next year. This long-awaited project is expected to significantly enhance connectivity to the Garhwal region and strengthen the state’s tourism and economic infrastructure.
Rishikesh-Karnprayag Rail Project: Connecting Mountains to Progress
Mr. Dhami highlighted that the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail line, one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the state, is progressing rapidly. Once operational, it will improve access to hill districts, boost trade and tourism, and provide faster transportation for locals and pilgrims alike.
He said, “Our goal is to start the trial rail service to Byasi by next year. The government is working tirelessly to make Uttarakhand a model of balanced growth, connectivity, and prosperity.”
The Chief Minister further shared that efforts are underway to upgrade Jolly Grant and Pantnagar airports to international standards, along with the inclusion of more remote areas under the Vibrant Villages Scheme to strengthen border infrastructure and rural livelihoods.
Employment Generation and Transparent Recruitment
Reiterating his commitment to youth empowerment, Mr. Dhami said that his government has provided government jobs to 26,000 youth so far, with a target to employ 10,000 to 12,000 more in the coming year. He emphasized that strict anti-cheating laws have been enacted to ensure fair recruitment and transparency in the selection process.
He remarked, “Uttarakhand is the first state to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and we have taken decisive steps to make governance transparent and accountable. With the anti-cheating law in place, only deserving and hardworking candidates are securing employment opportunities.”
All government departments have been directed to expedite recruitment drives and expand employment avenues for the youth.
A Vision for a Developed Uttarakhand by 2050
Chief Minister Mr. Dhami said that the state’s development vision aligns with Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s dream of a Developed India by 2047. He reiterated that Prime Minister Modi has called this decade the “Decade of Uttarakhand,” reflecting the state’s growing prominence in national development.
The Chief Minister announced that his government is preparing a 25-year strategic roadmap to ensure that by 2050, Uttarakhand will stand as a fully developed state. The plan focuses on sustainable infrastructure, youth empowerment, digital governance, tourism promotion, and cultural preservation.
Humanitarian Approach and Inclusive Governance
In response to questions during the press conference, Mr. Dhami assured that the state government would bear the complete treatment costs of two ailing protesters who were part of the statehood movement. He also mentioned that a housing scheme for journalists is under consideration to improve their living conditions and working environment.
Mr. Dhami emphasized that Uttarakhand’s growth model is people-centric, aiming to balance economic development with social welfare and inclusivity.
Silver Jubilee to Golden Future
Marking the silver jubilee of Uttarakhand’s statehood, Chief Minister Mr. Pushkar Singh Dhami’s announcements reflect a renewed momentum in governance, infrastructure expansion, and youth-focused reforms. The state’s long-term strategy aims to position Uttarakhand as a leading hub for eco-tourism, clean energy, and innovation while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
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