The Government of India has extended a major financial boost to Uttarakhand, approving a substantial loan to modernise and reform the state's mining sector. This move is set to enhance transparency, promote sustainable practices, and create new economic opportunities.
Details of the Financial Assistance
For the financial year 2025-26, the Union Ministry of Finance has sanctioned a special assistance of Rs 200 crore as a loan to Uttarakhand. This funding comes under the central government's "Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI)". The decision follows a formal proposal from the Uttarakhand government and subsequent recommendations from the Union Ministry of Mines.
The funds are specifically earmarked to implement critical reforms related to minor minerals and initiatives connected to the State Mining Readiness Index. The release of the capital is in strict adherence to the guidelines established by the Centre for this scheme.
State Leadership's Response and Vision
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the support. He stated that this financial infusion would provide fresh momentum to the state's efforts in the mining domain.
"This assistance will accelerate transparency, technological advancement, and sustainable development in our mining sector," CM Dhami said. He outlined the state government's plan to utilise the loan to make the mining system more organised, environmentally sensitive, and employment-oriented. The broader goal is to strengthen the state's economy and generate new job opportunities for local youth.
Parallel Push for Governance Reforms
In a separate but related development, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan recently reviewed various schemes under the PM Pragati initiative. He directed officials to launch a 'State Pragati' platform in Uttarakhand, modelled on the central scheme.
Bardhan instructed that one day each month should be dedicated to reviewing the progress of flagship and critical schemes of both the state and central governments. He announced that the first meeting of State Pragati should be organised in January 2026.
Furthermore, focusing on education infrastructure, the Chief Secretary emphasised the urgent need to equip schools identified under the PM SHRI scheme. He directed that facilities like computer or ICT labs, smart classrooms, and libraries be arranged at the earliest. All necessary processes, including Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) and Detailed Project Report (DFC) formalities, must be completed by March to ensure timely execution of projects.
This dual focus on sector-specific investment and overarching governance efficiency underscores a concerted push towards holistic development in the state.
