Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the state government's significant progress in reducing the unemployment rate by 4.4 percent—well ahead of the national average.
He attributed this success to initiatives like the 'One District, Two Products' scheme, which is creating local livelihood opportunities. Through the 'House of Himalayas' brand, Uttarakhand’s traditional products are also gaining national and international recognition.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the fourth edition of Oho Hill Yatra: “Rajat se Swarn ki Ore” at Mukhya Sevak Sadan, CM Dhami said, “Initiatives like 'State Millet Mission', 'Farm Machinery Bank', 'Apple Mission', 'New Tourism Policy', 'New Film Policy', 'Home Stay', 'Wed in Uttarakhand' and 'Saur Swarojgar Yojna' are strengthening the local economy of the state.”
Calling upon citizens during the silver jubilee year of Uttarakhand’s formation, the Chief Minister urged everyone to contribute with dedication in their respective fields. He stated, “If every citizen of the state contributes with full loyalty, dedication and honesty in his respective field, then no power can stop Uttarakhand from becoming a developed, self-reliant and prosperous state.”
CM Dhami emphasized that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is advancing infrastructure across sectors like education, healthcare, roads, sports, and air connectivity. He said, “Work is being done towards making a developed India and developed Uttarakhand through 'Local for Vocal', 'Make in India' and 'Startup India'.” The Chief Minister also noted renewed momentum in pilgrimages to Adi Kailash and winter destinations, and said that the government is preparing for major future events like the Nanda Devi Yatra in 2026 and the Kumbh Mela in 2027.
Reflecting on the last three years, CM Dhami said the state had overcome several challenges to achieve significant milestones. “The decisions being taken in Uttarakhand are becoming a model for the country,” he remarked.
He proudly shared that Uttarakhand ranked first in NITI Aayog's Sustainable Development Goals index for 2023–24. Additionally, Uttarakhand earned the Achievers category in Ease of Doing Business and was recognized among Leaders in Startup Ranking. He also praised the state athletes' outstanding performance at the 38th National Games, where they won over 100 medals and secured 7th position nationwide.
CM Dhami further added, “By implementing the Uniform Civil Code first in Uttarakhand, we have presented an ideal in front of the country.” He cited other landmark actions taken by the state, including enacting the strictest anti-copying law in the country, banning religious conversions, and initiating crackdowns against land jihad, love jihad, and spit jihad. He added, “We did not shy away from taking strict action against influential corrupt people.”
He proudly stated that over 22,000 youth have secured government jobs in the last three years due to the tough anti-copying law.
Speaking on the changing employment landscape, he pointed to the rise of new opportunities driven by technology and global shifts. The state has set up incubation centers and created a Rs 200 crore venture fund to promote startups and innovation. The CM emphasized, “Our aim is that our youth should not only become job seekers but also job providers.”
He envisioned a self-reliant Uttarakhand where villages are equipped with modern amenities and where migration is replaced with proud returns. Emphasizing cultural preservation along with development, he said, “With the motto of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi', our cultural identity should become even more rich so that the coming generations can be proud of it.” He reaffirmed his government's commitment to making Uttarakhand the best state in the country, guided by a “Vikalp Rahit Sankalp.”
Praising the efforts of Oho Radio, the CM remarked, “Every year through 'Hill Yatra', Oho Radio is inspiring the youth of the state, especially school students, to play an active role in building the future of the nation and the state by connecting them with a series of knowledge and dialogue.”
The event also witnessed the presence of Director General of Information Shri Banshidhar Tiwari, SOA Director Shri Ravi Bhatnagar, as well as students, parents, and teachers from across the state.