Dr. Shikha Mishra
"Year Ender 2025: Uttarakhand Leads with Landmark Reforms, Sporting Glory and Agricultural Innovation"
Key Highlights That Made Headlines in Uttarakhand
Several landmark decisions and initiatives kept Uttarakhand in the spotlight during 2025. Among the most discussed developments were:
• Over 10,000 acres of government land freed from encroachment
• For the first time in the state’s history, a budget exceeding ₹1 lakh crore was presented
• Ex-gratia for dependents of martyred soldiers increased from ₹10 lakh to 50 Lakh
• Launch of 13 model Sanskrit villages across all 13 districts
• Inclusion of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita studies in the school curriculum
• Approval of the Mega Industrial and Investment Policy–2025 to boost industries
• Clearance for the Rispana–Bindal Elevated Corridor project in Dehradun city
• Launch of the Uttarakhand Mahak Kranti 2026–36 initiative
• Union Cabinet approval for the Sonprayag–Kedarnath ropeway project
Dehradun, January 01, 2025:
The year 2025 proved to be a defining one for Uttarakhand, marked by several historic decisions that shaped the state’s governance model. The year began on January 27 with the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), making Uttarakhand the first state in the country to adopt such a law. With this step, the state set an example for others by ensuring equality in civil laws across communities.
The UCC decision was hailed as a milestone in strengthening justice, transparency, and social harmony. It underscored the government’s resolve to align governance with constitutional values while addressing long-standing demands for uniformity in personal laws.
Throughout the year, the Dhami-led government continued to push forward reforms aimed at good governance, citizen-centric policies, and inclusive development, reinforcing Uttarakhand’s image as a state willing to lead by example.
The state also carved its name in golden letters on the sporting map of India. Uttarakhand successfully hosted the 38th National Games, securing 103 medals and finishing seventh in the overall tally.
On the economic front, investment commitments made during the Global Investors Summit in Dehradun (December 2023) began translating into reality. Of the ₹3.56 lakh crore worth of MoUs signed, projects worth ₹1 lakh crore had been grounded by December 2025, signaling strong investor confidence in the state.
Agriculture and allied sectors saw major policy interventions aimed at boosting farmers’ incomes. The government launched the Millets Mission, approving a ₹134.89 crore plan for 11 hill districts by 2030–31. Under this, farmers producing mandua, jhangora, ramdana, kauni, and china will receive 80% subsidy on seeds and bio-fertilizers. Similarly, the Kiwi Policy promises 70% state assistance for orchard development at a cost of ₹12 lakh per acre across nine hill districts, expected to benefit 17,500 farmers. The Dragon Fruit Farming Scheme was rolled out in districts including Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, Nainital, Bageshwar, Pauri, Dehradun, and Tehri to promote modern cultivation methods.
Uttarakhand Implements Minority Education Bill, Launches Crackdown on Fraudulent Activities
In education, the government enacted the Minority Education Bill, establishing an authority to regulate institutions run by minority communities. Once recognized, all registered madrasas will adopt the Uttarakhand Board curriculum, ensuring uniformity in standards.
To curb exploitation under the guise of faith, the state launched Operation Kaalnemi on July 10, targeting fraudulent and illegal activities. The campaign has already impacted thousands, reinforcing the government’s resolve to safeguard citizens from deceit and malpractice.
Health Warriors Script a New Chapter of Service in Uttarakhand
These measures, spanning governance, infrastructure, education, culture, and industry, underscored the state government’s push for reform and development while strengthening Uttarakhand’s identity on both the national and cultural map.
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, Uttarakhand’s healthcare system achieved what is often considered impossible in challenging Himalayan terrain.
The Char Dham Yatra of 2025 set a new record, with more than 4.7 million pilgrims visiting Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. To strengthen medical facilities along the pilgrimage routes, the government activated 49 permanent health units. Among the most notable achievements was the inauguration of a 17-bed hospital at Kedarnath, ensuring timely medical support for devotees in the high-altitude shrine.
