During a Raksha Bandhan celebration held at Garhi Cantt, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made an emotional appeal, stating that any woman or girl in the state facing difficulties should feel free to approach his office. “I want to resolve their problems like a true brother,” he said, adding that he attended the event not as CM, but as a brother.
Dhami announced the upcoming Jal Sakhi Yojana to enhance the livelihoods of rural women. Under the scheme, women self-help groups will be assigned responsibilities like new water connections, bill distribution, collection, and maintenance of supply systems on an outsourcing basis.
Highlighting women empowerment, the CM said Uttarakhand’s women-made products have gained global recognition. He credited the state for abolishing discriminatory practices like teen talaq, prioritizing women in toilet construction and housing schemes, extending maternity leave, and opening doors to girls in the army and military schools.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat appreciated the transformation of Raksha Bandhan from a family celebration into a social commitment. He emphasized that protecting every woman is the collective responsibility of society, not just families.
The event was presided over by Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi. Notables like Neha Joshi, Vice President of BJP Yuva Morcha, and Nirmala Joshi also attended. Minister Joshi got emotional while recalling the horse assault case, stating that despite false accusations, he won with greater public support thanks to the blessings of his sisters.
However, the event faced logistical issues, as heavy turnout led to traffic congestion and mismanagement due to inadequate arrangements.
