Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday called for increased central support to address the state’s unique geographic and developmental challenges during the 25th meeting of the Central Zonal Council in Varanasi. 

The meeting, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saw participation from CMs of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, TOI reported.

Highlighting Uttarakhand’s strategic importance due to its proximity to international borders, Dhami pushed for the establishment of a high-level glacier study centre to assess the effects of climate change in the Himalayan region. He also sought technical assistance for a biodiversity conservation institute and an international adventure sports training centre, pointing to Uttarakhand’s strong potential in eco- and adventure tourism.

Nearly 80% of our terrain is mountainous and over 70% forested. This makes development complex and costly, especially with recurrent natural disasters, Dhami said, urging policy relaxation and targeted financial support. He advocated a lump-sum allocation under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and enhanced aid for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana to strengthen rural connectivity.

Calling for stronger central coordination, Dhami appealed for improved infrastructure in border villages under the Vibrant Village Programme to stem migration, as well as the rollout of BharatNet, 4G, and satellite-based communication services in remote areas.

The CM also requested central support for two major upcoming events—the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra in 2026 and the Kumbh Mela in 2027—arguing their religious and economic significance for the state.

Dhami acknowledged the council’s role in resolving past inter-state issues and enhancing regional cooperation. “Significant work is being done in the areas of cooperation, security and regional coordination across the country,” he added.

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