Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 6 Jan: The foundation stone for the proposed Way-Side Amenities under the Gramotthan Project (REAP) was laid today near Bhatta Fall in the Mussoorie Assembly constituency of Dehradun district.
The ceremony was graced by Ganesh Joshi, Cabinet Minister of Rural Development, Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, and Soldier Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand, who formally inaugurated the construction work. The programme was chaired by Meera Saklani, Chairperson of Mussoorie Municipal Council.
At the outset, Kailash Chandra Bhatt, District Project Manager, REAP, presented a detailed introduction to the concept, objectives, and proposed activities of the Way-Side Amenities. He emphasised that the initiative aims to link tourism with local livelihoods, empowering Self-Help Groups (SHGs), particularly women, through sustainable income opportunities.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Ganesh Joshi described REAP as a flagship initiative of the state government to make rural women self-reliant and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. He noted that the operation of Way-Side Amenities will provide regular income to SHG women, contributing significantly to the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Lakhpati Didi” vision.
Chairperson Meera Saklani highlighted that the project will enhance tourism facilities in Mussoorie while creating new employment and self-employment opportunities for local women. She assured full cooperation from the Municipal Council.
Chief Development Officer Abhinav Shah added that the management of Way-Side Amenities through SHGs will increase women’s income and serve as a successful model of women’s empowerment, local economic development, and the Lakhpati Didi mission.
The total cost of the project is ₹100.09 lakh, to be executed by the Rural Construction Department, Dehradun Block, within nine months. Active participation of local SHG women in the operation and management of the amenities will be ensured, fostering livelihood security, skill development, and economic independence.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local representatives, residents, SHG women, members of Veerangana CLF’s Board of Directors, and officials from various departments. Concluding the programme, Gram Pradhan Beena of Kyarkuli Bhatta expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and attendees, affirming that the project will create new opportunities for women and the local community at the village level.
