By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 31 Jan: At the sidelines of an event here, speaking informally with media persons, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami shared his views on the Union Budget to be presented tomorrow by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Dhami expressed strong confidence that Uttarakhand would once again receive more than its expectations from the Centre. He said that whenever the Union Government launches any major scheme, Uttarakhand is invariably included, reflecting the Centre’s consistent support for the state. He stressed that the Prime Minister has a deep emotional attachment with Uttarakhand and therefore he accords special attention to its needs, priorities and long-term development.
The CM also reminded that past Union Budgets have played a crucial role in strengthening infrastructure, connectivity and welfare initiatives in Uttarakhand. He expressed hope that the forthcoming budget would further accelerate Uttarakhand’s growth. He said the state government expects enhanced support for sectors such as agriculture, rural development, roads, disaster management and employment generation. Dhami said the Centre’s policies have always been sensitive to the geographical and economic challenges faced by hill states and that this approach is expected to continue in the upcoming budget as well.
Reflecting the concerns of the farming community, Dhami said farmers in Uttarakhand have high expectations from the Union Budget. He said that the farmers are seeking assured procurement of their entire produce at remunerative prices, along with stronger policy support for both traditional and cash crops. The CM said farmers also expect concrete steps for protecting crops from damage caused by wild animals, which remains a serious challenge in the hill districts and has adversely affected agricultural activity over the years. He claimed that the centre is aware of the need for quality seeds and improved irrigation facilities and need of other agriculture inputs in Uttarakhand to improve the productivity and to push organic agriculture.
The CM reiterated that Uttarakhand is highly optimistic that the Union Budget 2026 will reinforce the Centre’s commitment to inclusive development and provide the state with additional resources to meet the aspirations of its people.
