Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday reiterated the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth while chairing a pre-budget dialogue at the NHPC Banbasa Auditorium. The interaction focused on incorporating public suggestions into the upcoming state budget to ensure balanced, people-centric development.
Citizens’ Role in Budget-Making
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the state budget plays a decisive role in shaping Uttarakhand’s future and derives its real strength through active public participation. He assured that the suggestions and feedback received during the dialogue would be carefully examined and incorporated into the forthcoming budget wherever feasible.
Pre-Budget Dialogue and Stakeholder Participation
The consultation was led by Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister, Manmohan Mainali, and saw participation from public representatives, senior government officials, subject experts, and stakeholders from various sectors. Discussions focused on the state’s long-term development roadmap, strengthening a self-reliant economy, and expanding citizen engagement in governance.
State’s Financial Growth in Focus
Finance Secretary Dilip Jawalkar highlighted Uttarakhand’s financial progress, noting that the state’s capital outlay has nearly doubled over the past five years, rising from Rs 7,534 crore to Rs 14,765 crore. He also pointed out that Uttarakhand’s Gross Domestic Product has increased by nearly 60 per cent, from Rs 2.54 lakh crore in 2021–22 to Rs 4.74 lakh crore at present, describing the growth as a significant economic milestone.
Vision for Self-Reliant Uttarakhand by 2047
Reaffirming the government’s long-term vision, Dhami said the state is committed to becoming self-reliant across all sectors by 2047. He added that despite being a small state, Uttarakhand has achieved a leading position in financial management nationwide, calling it a matter of pride for the people of the state.
Focus on Women’s Safety and Sanitation
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on women’s safety and public hygiene, the Chief Minister announced plans to provide facilities such as pink toilets in every village. The initiative reflects the government’s focus on gender-sensitive and inclusive infrastructure development.
Wide-Ranging Proposals and the Road Ahead
The dialogue featured a wide range of proposals covering rural and urban development, agriculture, horticulture, industry, tourism, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure. Dhami said policies are being framed by taking into account the expectations of all sections of society and urged citizens who have not yet shared suggestions to do so.
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Reflecting on Uttarakhand’s Silver Jubilee year, the Chief Minister said the state has achieved several milestones and must now move forward with renewed determination. He expressed confidence that collective efforts would help Uttarakhand reach new heights of development, ensuring that every policy decision reflects the aspirations of its people.