Uttarakhand: Nainital immersed in devotion to Nanda-Sunanda; CM Dhami prays for the state’s prosperity and well-being

On Tuesday, Nainital was immersed in devotion as it celebrated the Maa Nanda-Sunanda Festival. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the festival, paid obeisance at the holy feet of Maa Nanda-Sunanda, and prayed for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the state’s residents. He also participated in the Aarti (ritual of worship with lamps) of Maa Nanda-Sunanda.

The Chief Minister remarked that the Nanda Devi Festival is not merely a fair but a celebration of Uttarakhand’s faith, culture, and age-old traditions. Through this event, diverse folk cultural traditions—including folk songs, Jhoda-Chanchri, and Dhol-Damaun—come alive. He stated that a society that takes pride in its roots and culture moves forward with self-confidence.

Emphasis on Heritage Conservation Alongside Development

Dhami stated that the state government is advancing ‘Devbhoomi’ (the Land of Gods) with the mantra of “Development as well as Heritage.” Following the model of the ‘Kedar-Khand’ initiative, major ancient and religious sites in the Kumaon region are being developed under the ‘Manas-Khand Mandir Mala Mission.’ The development of religious sites such as Maa Naina Devi, Kainchi Dham, and Mukteshwar will boost religious tourism in the region.

He noted that the growth of religious tourism would provide employment to local youth, self-employment opportunities for women, and a wider market for local products. The government is also placing special emphasis on strengthening health, education, road infrastructure, tourism, and connectivity facilities.

Commitment to Protecting Land and Cultural Identity

The Chief Minister asserted that, alongside development, it is the government’s responsibility to protect the land, resources, and cultural identity of Devbhoomi. He mentioned that under the land law amendments, provisions have been made to prohibit the purchase of agricultural and horticultural land by individuals from other states in the 11 hill districts.

Referring to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), he stated that efforts have been made to strengthen women’s rights through it. The Chief Minister noted that the Uniform Civil Code has been in effect in Uttarakhand since January 27, 2025. Opportunities for 35,000 Youths in Government Services

Dhami stated that the government is continuously working to provide employment opportunities to the youth. An anti-cheating law has been implemented to ensure transparency in government recruitment. He noted that, so far, 35,000 young people have secured employment in government services.

Market Access for Products Made by Women

The Chief Minister mentioned that efforts are underway to provide better market access for women who produce local goods through self-help groups and other channels. He stated that a provision has been made to offer interest-free loans of up to ₹5 lakh to women’s self-help groups. Access to proper markets and fair prices for local products will help increase the women’s income.

Congratulating the organizers of the festival, the Chief Minister said that the government is working with an “unwavering resolve” (vikalp-rahit sankalp) to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country. He prayed to Goddesses Nanda and Sunanda to continue bestowing their blessings upon ‘Devbhoomi’ (the Land of Gods) and to ensure the state remains happy and prosperous.

Cabinet Minister Ram Singh Kaida, MLA Sarita Arya, BJP District President Pratap Bisht, Divisional Commissioner Deepak Rawat, IG Nivedita Kukreti, District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal, and Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Manjunath TC were present on the occasion, alongside public representatives, officials, and a large number of devotees.