By OUR STAFF REPORTER
DEHRADUN, 4 Jan: Non-resident Uttarakhandis from across the globe have shown enthusiasm for the “Adopt a Village” programme initiated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. This initiative is aimed to encourage non resident Indians hailing from Uttarakhand to identify and develop villages in Uttarakhand with the objective of fostering holistic development. Many NRIs have already selected villages and presented detailed roadmaps for their development to the state government.
The programme’s concept originated during a dialogue on March 5 between the chief minister and non- resident Uttarakhandis residing in various countries. He had urged the diaspora to adopt one or more villages in the state. Responding positively, many NRIs have come forward with proposals aimed at transforming their selected villages into role models of progress. These villages are expected to inspire other non-residents to also participate in similar efforts.
China-based entrepreneur Dev Raturi has taken the lead by proposing the installation of solar lights in Sunar and Kamaira Saud villages in Tehri district. Additionally, he aims to provide local youth with employment opportunities in China’s hotel industry and contribute to educational initiatives. Similarly, Shailesh Upreti, an entrepreneur in the United States, is working on establishing an energy storage centre in Manan village, Almora, while also planning to open an India corporate office for his company.
Vinod Jethuri, a UAE resident originally from Tehri district, plans to offer skill-training in the border village of Osla, Uttarkashi district. Girish Pant from Pithoragarh has proposed initiatives in education, computer literacy, and the promotion of local products in Budget and Barsayt villages. AK Kala, a Pauri district native currently settled in Thailand, has expressed a desire to support the education of meritorious students in his home district. Meanwhile, Neeru Adhikari from Nainital, now living in Britain, has proposed establishing a Kiwi production and meditation centre near Naukuchiyatal and providing skill development training in Sabhawala village, Dehradun.
