Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday urged the central government to provide special policy support and long-term financial assistance to Himalayan states. This support is intended to help these states address challenges posed by climate change, ecological conservation, and disaster management.
Addressing NITI Aayog Governing Council
Speaking at the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, Dhami emphasized the critical role of Himalayan states. He stated, “Himalayan states play a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s environmental and water security and therefore require dedicated support for climate resilience, green energy and mountain infrastructure development.”
Vulnerability to Natural Disasters
Highlighting Uttarakhand’s vulnerability to natural disasters and environmental pressures, Dhami said, “Issues such as climate change, ecosystem conservation, carbon neutrality and disaster risk reduction should receive greater focus in national policymaking. The Himalayas, along with the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and extensive forest cover, are national assets whose protection is vital for sustainable development.”
Roadmap to Viksit Bharat 2047
Outlining Uttarakhand’s roadmap towards the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, Dhami said the state is prioritizing human capital development, skill enhancement, and innovation. He highlighted initiatives to strengthen education, entrepreneurship, and youth employability through smart classrooms, virtual learning platforms, startup promotion programs, and industry-academia partnerships.
Focus on Emerging Sectors
The Chief Minister said the state is also focusing on emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, data science, and semiconductors. Additionally, Uttarakhand is promoting natural farming, horticulture, medicinal plants, wellness tourism, and green energy as key growth drivers.
Knowledge-Based and Wellness-Driven Development
Dhami said Uttarakhand aims to emerge as a national model for knowledge-based and wellness-driven economic development. He also highlighted governance reforms, including digital monitoring systems, online land-use clearances, and initiatives to improve transparency and public service delivery.
About the Author
Gaurav Talwar is a journalist reporting on natural disasters in the Himalayas with a keen interest in politics, especially during election season.
