NTI (Mohan Bhulani) : The Uttarakhand government is gearing up to mark the state’s 24th Foundation Day in a modest manner. To commemorate this occasion, a Non-Resident Uttarakhand Conference was held on November 7 at Doon University in Dehradun, inaugurated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. During the event, CM Dhami unveiled the logo for the Devbhoomi Silver Jubilee celebrations. Additionally, the Timru perfume was launched for the international market. Around 250 non-resident Uttarakhandis from various parts of India attended the conference.
In his address, CM Dhami announced the formation of a Non-Resident Uttarakhand Council in the state. He also shared plans for a dedicated website to keep track of information regarding non-residents. Addressing the gathered non-residents, the Chief Minister urged them to visit their ancestral places at least once a year. He added that policies and schemes would be crafted based on their valuable suggestions.
Sudhansh Pant, the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan, originally from Khitauli, Berinag in Pithoragarh, addressed the gathering. He shared that his ancestral home is still in Nainital, and he visits it two to three times a year. CM Dhami also allocated Rs. 1 crore for the construction of an Uttarakhand Bhavan near the Pushkar pilgrimage site in Rajasthan, a project now progressing rapidly.
Additionally, IAS officer Sunil Barthwal, originally from Balondi village in pauri garhwal Uttarakhand and currently serving as the Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, also addressed the attendees. Barthwal highlighted Uttarakhand’s potential for exports, particularly organic products, which have a $150 billion global demand. He emphasized the benefits of certification for Uttarakhand’s organic farming, suggesting that clusters of 25 or more people engaging in organic farming would enhance export opportunities.
During the event, CM Dhami also shared updates on several state initiatives. He highlighted the development of Dehradun Airport into an international airport and plans for Pantnagar Airport to become a greenfield airport. Helicopter services are already operational from Dehradun to around 38-40 major cities. CM Dhami also announced that the date for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand would be revealed soon, following training for officials and staff. He added that an anti-riot law is also being introduced in the state.
