Pithoragarh – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the historic Jauljibi Fair on Friday at the confluence of the Kali and Gori rivers along the India–Nepal border in Pithoragarh. The fair, celebrated for centuries, is known as a symbol of cultural, economic, and traditional harmony between the two nations.
During the event, the Chief Minister announced several development projects for Munsyari, Dharchula and nearby regions. These include the construction of the Jhloodi–Palyati road in village Hoopli, development of the Bagicha–Dharchula Kot trekking route and the fairground, and construction of a trekking route from Payya Paudi to Nalalekh Shiv Temple. CM Dhami also approved a road from Kalapani to Dashrath Parvat Kund, an internal CC road in Suring village, an RCC bridge and approach road on the Simgad River near Bhainskot, and a new Sainik Rest House in Dharchula.
Speaking at the inauguration, CM Dhami said the Jauljibi Fair reflects the deep-rooted cultural and social connection between India and Nepal. He recalled visiting the fair during his childhood and highlighted its historic significance. He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India–Nepal relations have grown even stronger.
CM Dhami noted that the Prime Minister had emphasized Uttarakhand’s rich tradition of fairs during the state’s silver jubilee and encouraged the “One District, One Fair” initiative to strengthen the cultural and economic value of major festivals across districts.
The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to the overall development of Pithoragarh district. A medical college worth over ₹750 crore is under construction in Pithoragarh, along with a modern multipurpose hall at the Sports College costing ₹34 crore. He also announced that a grand stadium worth ₹28 crore will soon be built in Berinag and a 50-bed critical care block costing ₹21 crore is being added to Pithoragarh Medical College.
Further, ₹25 crore is being invested to build new bus stations in Askot, Gangolihat, and Dharchula, along with a Roadways Workshop in Pithoragarh. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, road construction projects worth over ₹327 crore are underway to improve connectivity. Expansion of the Naini Saini Airport is also progressing rapidly, with ₹450 crore approved and land acquisition in its final stages.
CM Dhami said the government is creating new opportunities in employment and self-employment, ensuring transparent recruitment processes and empowering youth through merit-based selections.
Before the fair inauguration, the Chief Minister also participated in the National Unity Foot March. The event was attended by MLA Harish Dhami, MLA Bishan Singh Chufal, BJP district president Girish Bisht and several other dignitaries.
