Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 73rd State Industrial Development and Cultural Fair in Gauchar on November 14, 2025, describing the annual event as a vital platform for preserving Garhwali-Kumaoni traditions while boosting the rural economy through local crafts, agriculture, and small industries. The week-long mela, held in the scenic Alaknanda valley of Chamoli district, attracts thousands from neighbouring districts and serves as one of the largest cultural-commercial gatherings in the hill state after the Kumbh and Nanda Devi Raj Jat.
Addressing a large crowd after cutting the ceremonial ribbon, Dhami announced a series of infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and tourism in the remote town. An 18-seater helicopter service, modelled on the successful Pithoragarh route, will soon link Gauchar with Dehradun and nearby pilgrimage centres, significantly reducing travel time for high-altitude residents. He also sanctioned construction of the Saket Nagar–Raghunath Temple–Chatwapipal motor road, along with four major parking facilities to ease congestion during festivals and fairs.
In a major boost for local sports, the Chief Minister confirmed that funds for a full-fledged stadium in Gauchar have been released and groundwork will begin shortly. These announcements were met with loud applause, especially from youth groups who have long demanded better facilities in the region still recovering from the 2013 Kedarnath disaster and recent glacial outbursts.
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During the ceremony, senior journalist Harish Maikhuri was honoured with the Govind Prasad Nautiyal Journalism Award, while educationist-author Dr Nand Kishore Hatwal received the Pt Maheshanand Nautiyal Education and Literature Promotion Award. Local MLA Anil Nautiyal and fair organisers submitted a memorandum pressing for faster implementation of pending road and water-supply projects.
The opening day featured traditional sports like cross-country races, children’s art competitions, and cultural performances by school troupes, with folk singer Dr Pammi Naval scheduled to present a Jagar recital in the evening. Security has been strengthened with additional police deployment and medical teams, while temporary stalls showcase everything from organic hill produce to handwoven shawls.
With improved weather and heightened post-pandemic enthusiasm, organisers expect record footfall this year, reinforcing Gauchar’s status as a cornerstone of Uttarakhand’s cultural calendar and a showcase for the state’s “Vocal for Local” push in the Himalayan hinterland.
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