CM Dhami: Public Support and Legal Awareness Essential to Counter Forced Conversions and Demographic Change

Dehradun – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that while the state government is actively taking measures against forced religious conversions and demographic shifts, public cooperation and legal awareness are equally essential to effectively address these challenges. He stated that in addition to strict laws against riots, firm action against land encroachments, and bold steps like the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), comprehensive public participation is crucial for their successful implementation.

CM Dhami was speaking at the “Viksit Uttarakhand 2047: Collective Dialogue with Ex-Servicemen” program held at Garhi Cantt, Dehradun, where he interacted with veterans and sought their suggestions for the state’s holistic development. Being the son of a soldier himself, CM Dhami paid tribute to ex-servicemen and reaffirmed the government’s continued commitment to their welfare and that of their families. He also highlighted the unprecedented increase in ex gratia payments and other benefits for soldiers’ families.

Ex-Servicemen: Protectors of Nation and Environment

CM Dhami called upon ex-servicemen to also become protectors of the environment. Referring to the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in the Name of Mother) campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he encouraged participation from veterans and citizens alike. He revealed that the Forest Department has been instructed to plant 1,000 trees in every division and stated that when soldiers plant a tree, it’s certain to flourish because of their dedication and discipline.

Tourism Boost and Economic Progress

Highlighting the growing tourism sector, CM Dhami said over 3.8 million tourists visited Uttarakhand in the past two months. He credited PM Modi’s efforts for boosting winter tourism and Adi Kailash Yatra, adding that the duration of the Mansarovar Yatra has also been reduced by 7 days. He also noted that the state’s unemployment rate has now dropped below 4.2%, which is lower than the national average.

Ex-Servicemen’s Contribution to the Nation

Welcoming the large number of veterans in attendance, CM Dhami said that soldiers have dedicated the prime of their lives to defending the nation with valor, sacrifice, and honor. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kutch to Arunachal Pradesh, they have upheld the dignity of the national flag on every front. “Our state is not only Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods) but also Veerbhoomi (Land of the Brave), as nearly every family in Uttarakhand is connected to the armed forces,” he said.

A Soldier’s Son with a Soldier’s Sensitivity

CM Dhami shared that being a soldier’s son, he has closely witnessed the hardships and challenges faced by ex-servicemen and their families. This personal experience, he said, fuels his deep sense of empathy and dedication toward their welfare. “That same feeling should be reflected in the working of our government,” he affirmed.

The event was also attended by Cabinet Minister Shri Ganesh Joshi, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) A.K. Singh, Maj. Gen. (Retd.) K.S. Rana, Col. Birendra Singh Rana, Brig. Nitesh Bisht, and a large number of veterans.

— Department of Information and Public Relations