On the occasion of Himalaya Diwas 2024, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made a significant announcement regarding the formation of a special committee dedicated to the conservation of the Himalayas. The CM emphasized the need for collective efforts to preserve the Himalayas, forests, and water resources, urging everyone to think about the legacy we are leaving behind for future generations.
Key Announcements on Himalaya Diwas 2024
During the event held at the Chief Sevak Sadan, CM Dhami stressed the importance of safeguarding the Himalayas and expressed gratitude to those actively working towards its protection. A special committee, headed by Durgesh Pant, Director General of UCOST (Uttarakhand Council of Science and Technology), will be formed to focus on issues related to the conservation and sustainability of the Himalayas.
State-Level Science and Technology Festival
CM Dhami also unveiled the poster for the fifth state-level Science and Technology Festival, which will be organized by UCOST. The festival will take place across six districts of Uttarakhand—Dehradun, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh—highlighting the importance of science and technology in the region.
Celebrating Bugyal Conservation Day
One of the noteworthy announcements was the establishment of Bugyal Conservation Day, which will be celebrated every year on September 2nd in Uttarakhand. Bugyals, the alpine meadows of the Himalayas, are crucial for maintaining the region’s ecological balance, and this new initiative will focus on their preservation.
Addressing Climate Change
CM Dhami expressed his concerns about the rapid pace of climate change, noting that even Dehradun has experienced a significant rise in temperatures this year. He stressed that if these trends continue, the future could be dire, making it essential to work towards the protection of the Himalayas, water bodies, and forests.
Formation of the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority
As part of ongoing efforts to tackle climate change, the government has already established the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority. This body focuses on the revival of natural water sources and rivers in the state, ensuring that the state’s water resources are protected for future generations.
Balancing Ecology and Economy
Highlighting the need for a balance between ecology and economy, CM Dhami pointed out that Uttarakhand is the first state to launch the Gross Environmental Product (GEP) initiative. This framework ensures that economic development does not come at the cost of ecological degradation. The state is also actively involved in afforestation, water conservation, and environmental protection programs. However, the CM stressed that public participation is crucial for the success of these initiatives.
Conclusion
Himalaya Diwas 2024 served as a reminder of the critical importance of preserving the natural heritage of the Himalayas. CM Pushkar Singh Dhami’s announcements underscore the government’s commitment to environmental conservation while promoting sustainable development. With the formation of a special committee and the focus on key areas such as water conservation and ecological balance, Uttarakhand is taking proactive steps to protect its invaluable natural resources.
