DEHRADUN: In a significant cultural milestone for Uttarakhand’s literary and policy community, a book on 25 years of Uttarakhand’s statehood was formally released by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at the Chief Minister’s residence in the city on Sunday. The publication marks the completion of 25 years of statehood of Uttarakhand and its journey since its formation and highlights achievements, challenges and future opportunities.
The book titled ‘Uttarakhand@25: Looking Back-Looking Forward‘ has been published by the Doon Library and Research Centre along with the Indian Institute of Public Administration. It contains 28 detailed essays written by 31 authors and co-authors. The essays cover several priority areas including governance, disaster management, environmental concerns, economic planning, rural migration, education, health, women’s empowerment, culture, agriculture and journalism.
Our correspondent reports that the Chief Minister described the book as a meaningful document that captures the essence of Uttarakhand’s progress. He said the collection offers an analytical view of the state’s evolution and provides constructive suggestions for the next 25 years.
According to the Chief Minister, the essays help explain how Uttarakhand dealt with its early challenges and built strong foundations across multiple sectors. He said the ideas presented by subject experts would help future policy makers take informed decisions and continue the journey of sustainable and inclusive development.
The Chief Minister added that the book reflects the collective effort of researchers, administrators and public representatives. He said it is important to preserve the intellectual record of the state’s achievements and share insights that can guide long-term planning. He also expressed gratitude towards the editors, writers and institutional teams involved in the project.
The Chief Minister said the state recorded a decline of 4.4 percent in the unemployment rate. He added that Uttarakhand secured leading positions in logistics performance and single window clearance systems. He said that the tourism sector received national awards for service excellence and that the state was recognised for outstanding performance in fisheries development.
He also said that Uttarakhand achieved first position in the country for the growth in farmers income. He added that Uttarakhand earned national attention by becoming the first state to implement the uniform civil code. He said this legal reform reflects the commitment of the state to equality and justice.
Our correspondent reports that the book includes essays explaining the pressures created by environmental changes in the Himalayan region. Contributors also discuss the need for strong policy measures to manage recurring disasters. The Chief Minister said that disaster management is a long-term responsibility and requires continuous planning.
He further said that Uttarakhand must strengthen its administrative systems and scientific capacity. He added that lessons from past disasters such as cloudbursts and landslides have helped improve preparedness and coordination. He said the state is working towards resilient development that benefits every community.
Our correspondent adds that the book also highlights issues related to migration from hill districts. Essays explain how infrastructure, health services and economic opportunities can influence decisions of local communities. The Chief Minister said that the government is working on several schemes intended to support livelihood creation and reverse migration.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand’s identity is linked to its rich culture, natural beauty and strong social values. He said the next 25 years must focus on innovation, sustainability and balanced development. He said the book would help decision makers frame policies aligned with the aspirations of citizens.
Senior officials, distinguished writers and retired civil servants attended the release function. The Chief Editor N S Napalchyal, Editors N Ravi Shankar and Dr Sudharani Pandey, Chairman of the Doon Library and Research Centre Professor B K Chaudhary and several noted personalities were present on the occasion.
The Chief Minister said he hopes that ‘Uttarakhand@25: Looking Back-Looking Forward’ will inspire researchers, administrators and youth to contribute towards a stronger and more progressive Uttarakhand.
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.
