Uttarakhand Cabinet Greenlights Major Fiscal and Policy Initiatives
The Uttarakhand cabinet, in a significant meeting held on Wednesday, has approved a substantial budget proposal of Rs 1.1 lakh crore to be presented in the upcoming assembly session. This marks an estimated 10% increase over the current fiscal year's budget of Rs 1 lakh crore. The newly proposed budget allocates Rs 59,954 crore for revenue expenditure and Rs 41,220 crore for capital outlay, reflecting a strategic focus on both operational and developmental spending.
Key Cabinet Decisions and Approvals
Among the pivotal decisions, the cabinet cleared the Rs 1,600 crore Uttarakhand Efficient Water Supply Programme. This initiative, which has received assistance from the World Bank contributing Rs 1,280 crore, aims to enhance the planning, implementation, and maintenance of drinking water schemes across the state. The state government will cover the remaining costs, with the proposal having been previously forwarded to the Union government for necessary approvals.
In a move to address water conservation and reuse, the cabinet also approved the Policy for Safe Reuse of Treated Water, 2026. This policy establishes a uniform framework for the phased reuse of treated water from sewage and faecal sludge treatment plants for non-potable purposes in both urban and rural areas. It outlines specific short and medium-term targets, along with detailed implementation guidelines, financial management norms, and quality control measures to ensure effective execution.
Legal and Judicial Reforms
The cabinet gave its nod to the Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which is designed to replace an existing ordinance that addressed implementation issues in the Code. The Uniform Civil Code came into effect on January 1, 2025, and this amendment seeks to resolve practical difficulties and clerical errors identified during its implementation, based on recommendations from a specially constituted committee.
To expedite justice in sensitive cases, the cabinet approved the establishment of three additional Fast Track Special Courts in Vikasnagar, Kashipur, and Nainital district headquarters. These courts will focus on trials related to rape and cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. With four such courts already operational in Dehradun, Roorkee, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar, this expansion aims to enhance judicial efficiency. Approval from the Union government has been secured for this initiative, and 14 court manager posts, including one for the Nainital High Court, have been sanctioned to support these efforts.
Educational and Investment Enhancements
In the realm of education, the Swami Vivekananda Uttarakhand E-Library Scheme received cabinet approval. This scheme will provide higher education institutions with access to a wide range of research journals and e-resources, including e-books, newspapers, magazines, and reports, through perpetual ownership or subscription models. Student fees for accessing these resources will range from Rs 100 to Rs 500, depending on the course type, making it an affordable option for learners.
To boost investment facilitation, the cabinet approved the creation of 14 new posts in addition to the existing 13 in the Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board. This expansion is expected to streamline processes and attract more investments to the state.
Agricultural and Trade Support
In a push to promote horticulture, the cabinet approved state assistance for high-density apple nurseries. Applicants with up to 10 acres will receive a 50% subsidy, while those with more than 10 acres will be eligible for a 40% subsidy, encouraging growth in this sector.
For the convenience of traders in the Kumaon division, approval was granted to set up a State Bench of the GST Appellate Tribunal in Haldwani. This decision addresses geographical challenges faced by traders in accessing judicial services, aiming to improve ease of doing business.
Additional Cabinet Approvals
Other significant decisions included:
- The constitution of a Steering Committee and Project Management Unit for a World Bank-assisted public financial management reform programme, along with posts for the unit.
- Contractual appointments of environmental engineers and hydrologists in 11 municipal corporations to enhance environmental management.
- The Beekeeping Policy-2026, aimed at boosting honey production and supporting local beekeepers.
- Expansion of nutritional provisions under Anganwadi centres for children aged three to six years, as well as for pregnant and lactating women, to improve health outcomes.
These comprehensive approvals underscore the Uttarakhand government's commitment to fiscal prudence, social welfare, and infrastructural development, setting a robust agenda for the upcoming assembly session.
