Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has highlighted his government's infrastructure and development initiatives as he approaches the completion of five years in office, becoming only the second chief minister in the state's history after N.D. Tiwari to achieve the milestone. With Assembly elections expected early next year, Dhami said his administration has focused on improving connectivity, promoting economic growth, and implementing key policy reforms. Speaking in an interview, he outlined several achievements that he said have contributed to the state's development during his tenure.

Among the major projects cited by the chief minister was the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, which he said has reduced travel time between the national capital and Dehradun to less than three hours. Describing the improved connectivity as transformative, Dhami remarked that the expressway has virtually made Dehradun a part of the National Capital Region (NCR). He also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has visited Uttarakhand 28 times, describing the visits as a reflection of the Centre's commitment to the state's development. The chief minister further highlighted the expansion of road, rail, and air connectivity, saying these projects have improved access for both residents and tourists.

Dhami also defended the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand, making the state the first in the country to introduce such legislation for all its citizens. He said the law has strengthened the justice delivery system and ensured equal rights for women. According to the chief minister, the legislation addresses practices such as polygamy, triple talaq, halala, and iddat, while improving inheritance rights and legal protections. Rejecting allegations that the law discriminates against any community, he said the UCC is consistent with Article 44 of the Constitution and referred to Supreme Court observations supporting the idea of a common civil code.

Also Read: Nihang Groups Return To Himachal After Overnight Talks End Dehradun Tensions

Addressing the issue of migration, Dhami claimed that Uttarakhand is witnessing a significant trend of reverse migration, with many people returning to their native villages after working in different parts of India and abroad. He said returning residents are establishing homestays, investing in horticulture, launching startups, and creating employment opportunities in rural areas. According to him, these developments are helping revive local economies and encouraging sustainable livelihoods in the hill state.

On balancing development with environmental conservation, the chief minister said his government remains committed to protecting Uttarakhand's natural heritage while improving public infrastructure. He pointed to the Adi Kailash region as an example, where tourism facilities have been developed without excessive modernization. Dhami said the government's approach focuses on promoting eco-friendly infrastructure, supporting local communities, and ensuring that development takes place without compromising the state's ecological and cultural identity. As the state prepares for the next Assembly elections, he said this balance between "vikas" (development) and "virasat" (heritage) will remain a key priority.

Also Read: Man Killed In Dehradun Irrigation Dispute, Police Arrest Three Accused