Dehradun : The special session of the Uttarakhand Assembly, held to mark the state’s silver jubilee year, concluded after three days of extensive discussions on the state’s achievements and future roadmap. Initially planned for two days, the session was extended by one more day following the demands of both ruling and opposition members.
During the concluding discussions, legislators from across the state highlighted progress in governance, infrastructure, health, and education, while also pointing out areas that still need improvement.
Rudraprayag MLA Bharat Chaudhary said the deliberations on the state’s 25-year journey would help accelerate development in the coming years. MLA Trilok Singh Cheema expressed pride in the state’s achievements, noting that Uttarakhand’s 25-year progress stands as a model for the country. “The health budget has grown by 16% in the past five years, and the BJP government has established an example of good governance and transparency,” he said.
MLA Shakti Lal Shah emphasized recognizing those who played a vital role in the state’s creation. “Even those who beat the traditional dhol-damau to mobilize people deserve respect and pensions,” he said. Shah also stressed the need to strengthen education and healthcare in the hills, saying, “Our Chief Minister is young, and so is the state—together, we must focus on the real needs of the mountains.”
MLA Munna Singh Chauhan raised the issue of the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card scheme, stating that several hospitals have stopped accepting the card due to unpaid dues. He urged the government to address the matter promptly.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA Manoj Tiwari criticized the government over the closure of schools and the state of education. “The government plans to shut down 1,488 schools. In my constituency, several schools are being closed, while many others have no principals. We must focus on improving education and healthcare, not reducing access,” he said. Tiwari also urged the government to develop Almora Medical College as a model institution.
After a day-long debate, the Assembly was adjourned indefinitely.
