CHAMOLI: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made a series of major development and welfare announcements during his visit to Sawad village in Chamoli district on Sunday, where Armed Forces Flag Day was observed with large participation from ex-servicemen, families of martyrs and local residents. Our correspondent reports that the event, held during the 18th Amar Shaheed Sainik Mela, saw the Chief Minister emphasize the state’s commitment to honouring soldiers while accelerating development in remote Himalayan regions.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister announced that the Gwaldam–Dewal–Wan motor road will soon be transferred to the Border Roads Organisation after the upcoming Nanda Devi Raj Jaat Yatra. The long-pending demand, he said, would ensure better maintenance, durability and safety of one of the region’s most crucial pilgrimage and connectivity routes.
“This road is not just an infrastructure link; it is the soul-route of our cultural and spiritual heritage,” the Chief Minister said. “Handing it over to BRO will improve its quality, safety and long-term upkeep.”
Dhami also approved the construction of two mini stadiums, one at Talwadi in Tharali and another at Lankhi in Nandanagar, aimed at boosting sports infrastructure for local youth. “Sports nurture discipline and confidence. These new facilities will encourage our young people to dream bigger,” he said.
Amar Shaheed Mela Declared a State Fair
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Pushkar Singh Dhami in the Armed Forces Flag Day Event in Chamoli
In a decision widely welcomed by residents, CM Dhami declared the Amar Shaheed Sainik Mela at Sawad as an official state fair. The event has been held for nearly two decades to honour the region’s soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.
“This is a land of unmatched courage,” Dhami said. “Declaring this fair as a state fair is our tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Sawad’s sons.”
Earlier, the Chief Minister visited the Sainik Smriti Museum, where he paid floral tributes to fallen soldiers. He also referenced India’s recent humanitarian-military success, Operation Sindhur, saying it symbolized the country’s rising defence capability and global stature. “Our armed forces today are stronger, more equipped and more respected worldwide,” he said.
UCC, Social Harmony and Security
In his address, the Chief Minister reiterated that Uttarakhand had become the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code, calling it a promise fulfilled to the people.
“Implementing the UCC is a historic milestone,” Dhami said. “We had promised equality, justice and uniformity before the law, today that promise stands delivered.”
He added that strict measures were being taken against what he described as attempts to disturb social harmony. “Anti-social activities that threaten our cultural identity will not be tolerated. Protecting the dignity and peace of Devbhoomi is our utmost priority,” he said.
Emotional Connect With the Region
Dhami struck an emotional chord by recalling his own family’s military background. “I come from a soldier’s household. Standing in Sawad brings back the stories of courage my father once narrated,” he said. “The bravery of this village’s soldiers is known across the nation.”
Our correspondent notes that Sawad has one of the highest numbers of serving and retired soldiers in the region, and the announcement of state-fair status was met with applause from the crowd.
Major Projects Reviewed
Senior officials, including the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, briefed the Chief Minister about ongoing development works in the district. Dhami assured locals that the Rampur Tothi road connecting Kumaon, long sought by residents, would also be taken up on priority.
“Our government is committed to fast-tracking development in border and hilly regions. Roads, sports facilities, fairs, and cultural projects together form the backbone of regional growth,” he said.
A Day Dedicated to Soldiers
The Chief Minister concluded his visit with an appeal to recognise the sacrifices of the armed forces. “Every family in this region has contributed to the nation’s security. We walk on free soil because of their sacrifices,” he said.
The event was attended by MLA Bhupal Ram Tamta, senior officials including DM Gaurav Kumar, SP Surjit Singh Panwar, officers from the Sainik Welfare Department, and members of the mela committee.
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.
