By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 10 Nov: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings and encouraging message on the occasion of Uttarakhand’s Foundation Day. In a detailed letter written to the PM, the CM has described Modi’s message as a reflection of his deep emotional attachment to the state, its people, cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. Dhami also highlighted Uttarakhand’s development journey under the guidance of the Central Government and has reiterated the state’s commitment to contributing to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Dhami said Modi’s message is not merely a customary greeting from the PM but also an expression of the affection and sensitivity of a leader who understands the soul of Uttarakhand. He said the PM’s words have instilled a sense of pride among the people of the state and have reaffirmed their faith in the vision of a developed Uttarakhand. Recalling former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s contribution to the creation of Uttarakhand, Dhami said the vision of establishing a separate state is now being translated into reality through sustained development efforts under Modi’s leadership. Dhami said the state has made considerable progress in infrastructure development, connectivity, tourism, education, healthcare and employment generation.
The CM particularly acknowledged the Centre’s assistance during natural disasters and challenging situations arising out of Uttarakhand’s difficult geographical conditions. Referring to the rescue operation following the Silkyara tunnel accident in November 2023, in which 41 workers were trapped, he said the PM’s constant monitoring, guidance and support had played a crucial role in the successful rescue operation. He also recalled Modi’s personal visit to Dehradun on 11 September 2025, following natural disasters in different parts of the state, when he had met affected families and announced a special financial assistance package of Rs 1,200 crores..
Highlighting major infrastructure projects, Dhami referred to the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail project, the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor, expansion of regional air connectivity and the proposed development of ropeways under the Parvatmala initiative. He also highlighted the Centre’s support for the Lakhwar Multipurpose Project, Jamrani Dam Project and Song Dam drinking water project, besides the proposed multi-purpose dam project on the Yamuna.
Referring to the energy sector, he said the Tehri Pumped Storage Project would strengthen Uttarakhand’s position in the renewable energy sector and contribute to the country’s energy security. He also highlighted the development of Kedarnath and Badrinath under Modi’s guidance, including the reconstruction of Kedarnath Dham, the Manaskhand Temple Circuit, the development of religious sites and the expansion of Hemkund Sahib ropeway and other pilgrimage infrastructure.
Dhami also referred to the development of border villages under the Vibrant Villages Programme, saying that the Prime Minister had transformed the perception of border settlements from being the country’s last villages to its first villages. He said improved infrastructure, tourism facilities and livelihood opportunities are helping strengthen these strategically important areas.
The CM also mentioned the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, describing it as an important step towards equality and social justice. He also referred to the stringent anti-copying law, anti-conversion provisions, action against illegal encroachments and initiatives for women’s empowerment. He said the government had facilitated appointments of more than 35,000 youths in government services through transparent recruitment procedures and was continuing efforts to generate employment through self-employment and entrepreneurship. He shared that Uttarakhand now has more than 1,300 startups recognised by the Union Government and over 200 recognised by the state government.
On the economic front, Dhami said Uttarakhand’s Gross State Domestic Product is estimated at approximately Rs 4.28 lakh crores in 2026-27, while the state budget had crossed Rs 1 lakh crores. He recalled that the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit held in December 2023 had attracted investment proposals worth approximately Rs 3.5 lakh crore, opening new opportunities in industry, tourism, energy, manufacturing, healthcare and education.
He also highlighted the expansion of medical colleges, establishment of satellite centres at AIIMS Rishikesh and efforts to improve healthcare facilities in remote mountain districts.
Dhami expressed gratitude to Modi for his affection, guidance and continued support, saying that Uttarakhand would remain committed to overcoming geographical challenges, strengthening its economy and preserving its natural, spiritual and cultural heritage as an important contributor to the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
