Border Areas to Become Vibrant Villages: CM Dhami Celebrates Diwali With Garhwal Rifles
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami discusses the transformation of border areas into Vibrant Villages while celebrating Diwali with soldiers.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took part in a Diwali Milan programme on Saturday, joining the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles (Garhwal Greeners) at their training ground in Garhi Cantt, Dehradun. During the event, the Chief Minister highlighted the state's commitment to transforming its remote border regions into vibrant villages, ensuring they are no longer isolated but integrated into the state's development.
A New Era of Connectivity
Speaking at the event, CM Dhami emphasized that the shift in approach to border development is a significant change from the past. He noted that for 60 to 70 years, road construction in border areas was delayed due to the arguments that such roads would provide entry points for enemies. However, he clarified that the current administration is now transforming that old system.
He highlighted the Prime Minister's vision, mentioning that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared that Mana village would no longer be viewed as the "last village" of India, but rather as the "first village."
Strategic Infrastructure Boost
The Chief Minister shared that the state is seeing a rapid increase in infrastructure development. Inspired by the Prime Minister's visit to Gunji, a village near Adi Kailash, roads are now being constructed across the border regions, including a road that now reaches all the way to Lipulekh.
- Connectivity: Roads, bridges, and tunnels are being built to enhance accessibility.
- Digital Reach: Optical fibre networks are being expanded to provide stronger connectivity.
- Military Mobility: These infrastructure projects have significantly improved the mobility of the armed forces and strengthened communication systems.
Promoting High-Altitude Sports
The Chief Minister also mentioned that the活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用活用 idée of high-altitude marathons is being promoted to bring attention to these regions. He recalled his own recent visit to Adi Kailash, where the "Adi Kailash Run" took place in Gunji village. Furthermore, the state is preparing to host a major marathon in the Malari and Niti regions this coming May.
Honoring the Bravehearts
Following the event, CM Dhami pushed the spirit of patriotism by raising the slogan of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" alongside the soldiers. In his address to reporters, he expressed deep gratitude to the armed forces, stating that the reason the nation can celebrate festivals like Diwali in peace is because the borders are secure and the nation is safe due to thes soldiers' contributions.
He extended his heartfelt Diwali greetings to all soldiers, their families, and brave personnel who remain on duty to protect the country.
Other Festive Celebrations
The Chief Minister's festive schedule also included a celebration on Friday, where he participated in a Deepawali Milan program at the BJP State Office on Balbir Road in Dehradun. He joined BJP State President Mahendra Bhatt, party office-bearers, and workers to share the joy of the festival, noting that Deepawali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and truth over falsehood.