Haldwani/Ramnagar: On the occasion of Uttarakhand’s 25th State Foundation Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated two major events — the Ex-Servicemen Conference in Haldwani and the State-level Jan Van Mahotsav in Ramnagar. Both events reflected the state’s rich legacy of valor, environmental commitment, and balanced development.
‘Uttarakhand’s Identity Lies in Courage and Dedication’ – CM Dhami
At the Ex-Servicemen Conference held at M.B.P.G. College, Haldwani, CM Dhami honoured ex-servicemen, veer naris, and their families for their service to the nation. He said that every family in Uttarakhand contributes to the defense of the country, making Devbhoomi a land of sacrifice and valor.
Announcing several welfare measures, the Chief Minister said the Sainik Welfare Department would be reorganized to ensure better transparency and efficiency. He declared the reconstruction of district Sainik Welfare offices and housing in Haldwani, Almora, and Pauri, enhancement of financial assistance for martyr widows from ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh, and the establishment of a modern hostel for 150 children of soldiers in Haldwani.
Dhami emphasized that “a soldier never truly retires; he remains a soldier forever.” He highlighted India’s growing defense self-reliance, mentioning indigenous systems like the BrahMos and Akash missiles. During the event, 44 veer naris from Nainital and Udham Singh Nagar were felicitated.
Sainik Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi termed the occasion a moment of pride for Uttarakhand and announced that the long-awaited Sainya Dham would soon be inaugurated. He added that over 22,000 soldiers had been provided employment and that a 6.4-hectare land in Haldwani had been allotted for the soldiers’ hostel project.
‘Nature Conservation Is in Our Culture’ – CM Dhami at Jan Van Mahotsav
In Ramnagar, CM Dhami inaugurated the State-level Jan Van Mahotsav, highlighting Uttarakhand’s deep connection between people and forests. He said, “The protection of nature is ingrained in our traditions. Our ancestors taught us the philosophy of coexistence between humans and nature.”
Dhami described the Jan Van Mahotsav as a symbol of the unbreakable bond between the people and forests, emphasizing that true development must balance ecology and economy. He urged the youth to adopt environmental protection as a way of life.
Referring to the 1973 Chipko Movement, Dhami said it became a global symbol of women’s power and environmental awareness. “By embracing trees, the women of Uttarakhand gave the world a message of conservation, courage, and compassion,” he added.
Promoting Eco-Tourism and Green Livelihoods
The Chief Minister noted that Uttarakhand has achieved remarkable progress in maintaining the balance between nature, culture, and development over the past 25 years. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the state is working on strengthening ecology, economy, and technology. He said GPS tracking, drone surveillance, and dog squads are being used for wildlife protection.
Dhami also highlighted ongoing eco-tourism projects in Bijrani, Girija, and Dhikuli zones, which have created thousands of jobs. New initiatives like training programs for women safari drivers, nature guides, and drone pilots are empowering youth toward self-reliance.
At the event, CM Dhami interacted with school children, appreciating their artwork and urging youth participation in environmental conservation. He also made several development announcements, including the formation of a new revenue village, water and irrigation projects, improved connectivity, and the establishment of a souvenir shop promoting local products.
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal said the government is continuously working to improve forest conservation and local livelihoods. Principal Secretary (Forest) R.K. Sudhanshu and Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. Tejaswini Patil presented updates on conservation programs.
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The program saw the presence of MLAs, senior officials including DM Lalit Mohan Rayal, SSP Manjunath TC, CCF Dr. Sameer Sinha, and a large number of citizens, students, and forest officials.
