Gauchar: The 72nd State Industrial Development and Cultural Fair began in Gauchar with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurating the event. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also inaugurated a newly built sub-divisional transport office building in Chamoli, constructed at a cost of Rs 4.93 crore. Additionally, he announced projects such as the expansion of motor roads and infrastructure upgrades in Chamoli, a meeting for Nanda Devi Rajjat Yatra preparations, and the completion of a Polytechnic building in Pokhari.
Addressing the gathering at the fair, the Chief Minister said that the Gauchar Fair is renowned for its unique blend of culture, commerce, and industry, making it a significant state event. He congratulated everyone on the inauguration of this historic fair, which has been a source of pride for the state for over seven decades, with active participation from various government departments.
The Chief Minister emphasized the special place fairs hold in people’s lives, aiding in preserving traditions while offering social interactions and entertainment. He highlighted that Gauchar Fair, unlike others, is a major platform for showcasing the local culture and business activities.
He praised the government’s initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to revive India’s cultural heritage and support local industries and self-help groups. He mentioned that initiatives like “Vocal for Local,” “Make in India,” and “Made in India” are creating recognition for local products not only nationally but also globally.
The Chief Minister added that the government aims to curb migration from the mountains by promoting tourism in rural areas and creating job opportunities for locals. Uttarakhand has also emerged as a favorite destination for film shooting and wedding events. To encourage investment in mountainous regions, the government is focusing on wellness, IT, and solar energy sectors.
Additionally, he highlighted the recent introduction of helicopter services in Gauchar, which is expected to boost the tourism economy and provide emergency assistance during disasters. He affirmed the government’s commitment to making Uttarakhand a leading state and praised the district administration for the fair’s grandeur.
During the event, senior journalist Kranti Bhatt was honored with the Pt. Govind Prasad Nautiyal Memorial Award for excellence in journalism, and the Shri Guru Ram Rai Education Mission, Dehradun, received the Pt. Maheshanand Nautiyal Memorial Award for contributions to education and literature.
The fair’s first day featured traditional worship of Isht Rawal deity, a morning procession by schoolchildren, a flag-raising ceremony, competitive sports for boys and girls, art competitions, and cultural programs. A district-level volleyball competition and an evening cultural performance by local artists further enriched the event. The fair’s pavilion, adorned with traditional mountain culture, remains a major attraction for attendees.
Rajya Sabha MP Mahendra Bhatt and Cabinet Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat praised the development work being done under the leadership of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister Dhami. Regional MLA Anil Nautiyal extended a warm welcome to the Chief Minister and expressed gratitude for multiple developmental projects, including a base hospital and a Rs 35 crore Gauchar drinking water project.
