Nainital (Uttarakhand) [India], November 7 (ANI): On the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of Uttarakhand's Statehood, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the State-level Jan Van Mahotsav in Ramnagar on Thursday.

The Chief Minister said that wildlife conservation is an integral part of the cultural heritage of Devbhoomi, and environmental protection has always been deeply rooted in our traditions. He added that the concept of coexistence between humans and nature, given to us by our ancestors, continues to guide our way of life.

The Chief Minister said that the Jan Van Mahotsav symbolises the strong and inseparable bond between people and forests. He stated that development is meaningful only when ecology and economy remain in harmony. He emphasised that it is essential to make the younger generation environmentally conscious and encourage them to adopt sustainable practices in their livelihoods.

Recalling the historic Chipko Movement of 1973 in Chamoli district, the Chief Minister stated that the women of Uttarakhand, by embracing trees to protect them from being felled, sent a powerful message to the world about the importance of environmental conservation. The movement became a global symbol of women's empowerment, non-violent protest, and love for nature.

The Chief Minister said that in the 25 years since the state's formation, Uttarakhand has made remarkable progress while balancing nature, culture, and development. The state's lush greenery, rich biodiversity, and wildlife, he said, are its defining identity.

He added that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government is working on a balanced model of ecology, economy, and technology. Modern tools such as GPS tracking, drone surveillance, and dog squads are being used to strengthen wildlife protection initiatives across the state.

The Chief Minister said that the state is rapidly developing eco-tourism models that create employment opportunities for local communities while ensuring environmental sustainability. Zones like Bijrani, Girija, and Dhikuli have been developed with modern facilities, providing livelihood to thousands of rural residents.

He added that skill-based enterprise opportunities are being promoted, including nature guides, drone pilots, wildlife photographers, and wildlife tourism professionals, to make the youth self-reliant.

The Chief Minister interacted with school students and viewed the paintings and artworks created by them at Nagar Van. Praising their creativity, he said that instilling the spirit of environmental conservation in children is the greatest investment for the future.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister made several development announcements for the region, including:Development of Lethi-Chopda as a new revenue village with essential facilities such as water, electricity, education, road connectivity, and health services; Installation of irrigation and drinking water tubewells in village Bhlaun; Connecting Tumadiya Road to Maldhan for improved access; Special training for women Gypsy drivers and completion of pending registrations in the 2025-26 tourism season; Early commencement of Light & Sound Show at Nagar Van; and establishment of a community souvenir shop in Ramnagar to promote local products.

The Chief Minister also inspected stalls set up by various forest divisions and women self-help groups, and planted a sapling under the 'One Tree in Mother's Name' campaign. (ANI)