Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the International Uttarakhandi Diaspora Conference in Dehradun. The event witnessed the participation of Uttarakhandis residing in various countries, showcasing their deep-rooted love and enthusiasm for their heritage and homeland.
Addressing the diaspora, the Chief Minister highlighted the immense potential for investment in Uttarakhand, which is rapidly evolving as a hub for opportunities. He mentioned sectors such as adventure tourism, power generation, aromatic products, manufacturing, agriculture, horticulture, herbal products, AYUSH, and wellness as key areas for investment. He also emphasized significant policy and structural reforms undertaken to establish Uttarakhand as a prime investment destination. Rules have been amended to facilitate ease of doing business, along with strict legal provisions for ensuring a crime-free and fearless society.
The Chief Minister spoke about the enhanced infrastructure in roads, railways, airports, ropeways, and communication networks, making the state a safe, convenient, and attractive investment destination. Rankings by NITI Aayog affirm this progress.
He urged the diaspora to contribute to solving the critical issue of migration by adopting and developing villages and towns in their native land. He emphasized the importance of their skills, experience, and technical expertise in realizing the state’s aspirations.
Describing the conference as a unique festival of cultural and social connection, the Chief Minister acknowledged the respect and recognition that Uttarakhandis have earned worldwide for their honesty, hard work, and dedication. He encouraged them to make their homeland, Uttarakhand, equally proud through their efforts.
The Chief Minister also announced the formation of a dedicated diaspora cell for better coordination and support for expatriates and plans to establish a venture fund soon.
Highlighting upcoming milestones, he mentioned that 2025 would mark a significant chapter in Uttarakhand’s history as the state celebrates its silver jubilee. The state is also set to host the National Games from January 28 and implement the Uniform Civil Code later this month. Recently launched winter tourism initiatives are expected to be a game-changer for the state’s economy.
Diaspora members shared their experiences, reminiscing about their childhood in Uttarakhand and the remarkable transformation the state has undergone over the years. They acknowledged the challenges that once prompted them to seek opportunities abroad but expressed optimism about the abundant prospects available in today’s Uttarakhand.
Prominent diaspora members like Girish Pant, Anita Sharma, Dev Raturi, Vinod Jethudi, A.K. Kala, and Shailesh Upreti lauded the government’s initiative, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with their roots and contribute to their homeland. They proposed adopting villages or sponsoring children to address migration issues effectively.
Many speakers addressed the gathering in their native language, reflecting their deep connection to their motherland.
The Chief Minister honored prominent diaspora members who contributed to Uttarakhand’s development and adopted villages, including Girish Pant, Anita Sharma, Dev Raturi, Vinod Jethudi, A.K. Kala, and Shailesh Upreti.
Additionally, the Chief Minister visited an exhibition showcasing products sold under the “House of Himalayas Uttarakhand Brand,” created by various women self-help groups.
The conference was attended by Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal, Tehri MLA Kishore Upadhyay, Chief Secretary Radha Raturi, Director General of Police Deepam Seth, Additional Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan, former DGP Anil Raturi, Principal Secretary R.K. Sudhanshu, Secretaries R. Meenakshi Sundaram, Ranjit Kumar Sinha, Vinod Kumar Suman, Deependra Chaudhary, Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, and DG Information Banshidhar Tiwari, along with other dignitaries.
