By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 15 May: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held discussions with representatives from Yuvak Mangal Dals and Mahila Mangal Dals from across the state at his official residence here today under the ‘Chief Sevak Samvad’ programme. During the interaction, the CM announced an increase in the incentive amount for these welfare groups from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000. He also stated that a policy would be formulated to make these groups self-reliant and provide them with loan facilities. Additionally, he announced that the welfare groups would receive training under the Digital Mission, and a state-level portal would be created to facilitate connectivity among all youth and women welfare groups.
On this occasion, Dhami praised the welfare groups for their contributions to social service and their efforts towards cultural preservation, and disaster management. He added that these organisations play a vital role in promoting Uttarakhand’s culture and traditions. He emphasised that youth and women’s welfare groups are strengthening social consciousness, preserving folk traditions, and bringing positive change at the village level. He noted that during disasters, these groups act as ‘first responders’ and lead public awareness campaigns. The CM also reminded that the state government is implementing several schemes to empower these welfare groups, including financial assistance ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 3.5 lakhs for self-employment.
He mentioned the budgetary provisions made under various schemes for youth empowerment and rural development, including Rs 5 crores under the CM Yuva Mangal Dal Swavalamban Yojana, over Rs 2 crores under the CM Gramin Khelkood Evam Swasthya Samvardhan Yojana, and Rs 60 crores under the CM Swarozgar Yojana. He also announced an allocation of Rs 10 crores under the CM’s Palayan Roktham Yojana and over Rs 21 crores under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Gramin Kaushal Yojana for technical and vocational training. The CM reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting folk culture and providing financial assistance for organising local fairs and festivals.
During the interaction, representatives of various welfare groups shared their suggestions. Azad Dimri from Uttarkashi recommended increasing the incentive amount, while Khristi Koranga from Bageshwar proposed including welfare group members in meetings at the block and district levels to maximise benefits from government schemes. Monika from Champawat suggested creating a portal for important public interest information, and Surjit Singh Bisht from Chamoli advocated for arranging digital training for welfare groups at the village level. Manoj Chauhan from Haridwar stressed the need to promote yoga and fitness more extensively across the state.
MLA Suresh Gadiya, Vice Chairman of PMGSY State Level Monitoring Council Shiv Singh Bisht, Special Principal Secretary Amit Sinha, Secretary SN Pandey, and Director, Youth Welfare, Prashant Arya were also present on the occasion.
