DEHRADUN: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday released a book on Uttarakhand’s political history titled, Uttarakhand Rajya Ka Naveen Rajneetik Itihas, written by senior journalist and author Jai Singh Rawat, at a programme held at the Chief Minister’s residence. The book documents the political and administrative evolution of Uttarakhand over the 25 years since the state’s formation and is being described as a significant contribution to contemporary regional history.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister congratulated the author for producing a detailed and research-based account of the state’s political trajectory. Our correspondent reports that the event was attended by former chief ministers, legislators, journalists and members of the literary community.
The Chief Minister said the book offered a structured narrative of how the state has transitioned through phases of instability, growth and institutional building. “History is not merely a collection of events. It is a responsibility,” he said. “Rawat ji has presented the last 25 years with honesty, depth and documentary evidence, making this work invaluable for future generations.”
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He added that Uttarakhand has a rich cultural and literary tradition, yet there were limited comprehensive texts capturing the political developments after statehood. “This book fills an important gap. It will prove especially useful for students, researchers and civil-services aspirants who want to understand the administrative evolution of the state,” the Chief Minister said.
The book, divided into five sections, chronicles key political transitions, policy decisions, challenges and institutional reforms since 2000. It includes rare documents, press archives and analyses of major events that shaped the governance framework of the hill state. Our correspondent adds that the Chief Minister praised the author’s ability to compile extensive historical material into a coherent narrative.
Shifting focus to reading culture, the Chief Minister urged the public to promote books over ceremonial gifts. “I appeal to everyone that give a book instead of a bouquet at events. Books deepen thinking and strengthen society,” he said. He added that even in an age dominated by artificial intelligence and digital platforms, traditional books continue to hold unmatched importance. “AI may advance endlessly, but it cannot replace the depth and permanence of books,” he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on protecting and promoting regional languages such as Garhwali, Kumaoni and Jaunsari. Calling local languages an essential part of cultural identity, he said the administration is working on digitalisation projects to preserve linguistic heritage. “Language and culture are not just tools of expression; they are the foundation of our identity,” he said. “It is essential that we strengthen their use among the younger generation.”
He encouraged parents, teachers and students to use local languages in daily communication and emphasised the need to bring folk literature, oral traditions and regional stories into mainstream platforms. The Chief Minister said the government is planning new initiatives, including competitions and recognition programmes, to support digital content creation in regional languages.
Reflecting on the state’s cultural legacy, the Chief Minister said that the lessons passed down by earlier generations must be preserved. “Our ancestors protected our traditions, language and social values through immense struggle. When children understand their roots, they grow with confidence and cultural awareness,” he said.
The programme also saw participation from prominent public figures. Former chief minister and former Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshyari, former chief minister Harish Rawat, MLA Brij Bhushan Gairola, journalists, writers and other dignitaries were present.
The ceremony concluded with the author expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister and acknowledging the support of the literary community. He said the book was an attempt to ensure that the political history of Uttarakhand is recorded with factual integrity and made accessible to future generations.
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
