Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 73rd State Industrial Development and Cultural Fair in Gauchar on Friday. Addressing the large gathering, he said the Gauchar Mela is one of the state’s most prominent fairs, serving as a vital platform to preserve cultural heritage while also strengthening the local economy.
The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s cultural traditions are being revived, and initiatives like Local for Vocal and Make in India are providing strong support to local products. He said several policies and schemes guided by the Prime Minister have been successfully implemented in Uttarakhand, ensuring the state’s all-round development.
CM Dhami praised women’s self-help groups for manufacturing high-quality products despite challenges. He urged people to adopt swadeshi items, saying that promoting indigenous products directly strengthens the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He added that Uttarakhand is fast emerging as a preferred destination for film shooting and is now gaining popularity as a wedding destination.
Key Announcements for Gauchar
The Chief Minister announced the launch of an 18-seater helicopter service in Gauchar on the lines of Pithoragarh. He also declared the development of parking facilities at four major locations in the town and approved the construction of the Saket Nagar–Raghunath Temple–Chatwapipal motor road. CM Dhami said funds for constructing a stadium in Gauchar have already been sanctioned, and work will begin soon.
Honouring Contributors in Journalism and Education
CM Dhami presented the Govind Prasad Nautiyal Patrakar Samman to senior journalist Harish Maikhuri for his outstanding contribution to journalism. Senior litterateur and educationist Dr. Nand Kishore Hatwal received the Pt. Maheshanand Nautiyal Education and Literature Promotion Award.
Local MLA Anil Nautiyal and Mela Vice President Sandeep Negi welcomed the Chief Minister and presented a memorandum highlighting regional issues.
Cultural Activities Mark the First Day
The inaugural day began with traditional worship of Isht Rawal Devta, followed by a morning procession by school children. The Mela President hoisted the flag and took the salute at the march-past. A cross-country race was organised from the main gate to Chatwapipal Bridge and back. Various contests, including races for boys and girls, Nehru Drawing Competition, infant exhibition, and cultural performances by schools, were also held.
The first cultural evening will feature a Jagar performance by folk singer Dr. Pammi Naval. The fair ground, decorated with traditional Pahadi themes, has become a major attraction for visitors.
The event was attended by Tharali MLA Bhupal Ram Tamta, Rudraprayag MLA Bharat Chaudhary, Minister of State Hark Singh Negi, Zila Panchayat Chairman Daulat Singh Bisht, Vice-Chairman Laxman Khatri, BJP District President Gajpal Bartwal, party office-bearers, and a large number of residents.
