3 April, 2023: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where he discussed several important issues concerning the state. One of the main topics of discussion was the upcoming Chardham Yatra, which is set to begin on April 22nd. The Chief Minister has invited the Prime Minister to visit Adi Kailash and Chardham Yatra, which are two of the most popular religious destinations in Uttarakhand.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister also approved various externally aided projects and special assistance schemes for capital projects. The Jamrani Dam project for the development of the state was also approved. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude for the comprehensive support provided by the Government of India.
One of the key issues discussed was the relief package for the victims of the Joshimath landslide. The Chief Minister stated that an economic package of Rs 2942.99 crore is needed for landslide repair work. The package includes the construction of 150 pre-fabricated houses, site development work, and affected allowances for temporary relief and housing for the affected.
The Chief Minister also requested that the concerned authorities operate air services at Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh and transfer the airport to the Indian Air Force (Ministry of Defence) in view of the expansion of the airport. The Chief Minister discussed various topics with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in Parliament House, with Union Minister Anurag Thakur also present.
The Chardham Yatra 2023 will begin on April 22nd with the opening of the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. Kedarnath will open on April 25th and Badrinath Dham on April 27th. In preparation for the Chardham Yatra, the Chief Minister has ordered the elimination of the compulsion of registration of local people going to visit the Char Dham.
Overall, the meeting between the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister was productive and focused on the development of Uttarakhand. The approval of various projects and schemes will help the state progress, and the relief package for the Joshimath landslide victims will provide much-needed support. The upcoming Chardham Yatra is also an important event, and the Chief Minister's decision to eliminate the compulsion of registration for local people will make it more accessible for everyone.