Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami outlines development and social security priorities

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has outlined several strategic priorities for the state, focusing on research-driven policymaking and social security expansion.

During a meeting of the Uttarakhand State Centre for Public Policy and Good Governance, Dhami emphasized the need for evidence-based policies tailored to the state’s unique geography and future needs. Key development initiatives include supporting MSMEs, promoting homestay tourism in hilly regions, and fostering innovation through research. To support academic contribution, the state will provide annual stipends to 10 postgraduate students at top universities for capstone projects targeting critical development areas.

In a separate initiative regarding social welfare, the state government transferred Rs 147.05 crore in pensions to 9,91,914 beneficiaries for August 2026. These funds cover various groups, including the elderly, widows, and persons with disabilities. Dhami directed officials to ensure the pension system remains transparent and beneficiary-centric, specifically instructing that individuals unable to obtain Aadhaar should be identified for alternative account-based payment arrangements to prevent deprivation of benefits.