Uttarakhand CM Pushes for Special Policies for Himalayan States

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the need for specific policies for Himalayan states at the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting. He urged the Centre to allow states to approve hydropower projects under 25 MW and requested capital subsidy for small hydropower projects in Himalayan and North-Eastern states.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday advocated for tailored policies for Himalayan states and called on the Centre to permit states to sanction and execute hydropower projects under 25 MW. Dhami made this appeal during the Governing Council meeting of the NITI Aayog.

Dhami also requested the implementation of a proposed 24% capital subsidy for the construction of small hydropower projects in both the Himalayan and North-Eastern states. He highlighted the critical role of urban areas as growth engines in developed nations and stressed the need to develop 'counter magnet areas' to manage excessive population in cities.

In addition, Dhami pointed out the urgent need for water conservation and groundwater level enhancement, referencing initiatives like the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister also emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship in rural areas and the establishment of rural incubation and growth centres, seeking central government support for these initiatives.