Mana, Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited Mana village, regarded as India’s first border village, where he interacted with local residents and pilgrims while emphasizing development, sustainability, and support for local communities.
During his visit, Dhami reflected on the transformation of border villages over the years. He stated that before 2014, such villages were often neglected and referred to as the “last villages” of India, but a shift in vision has now redefined them as the “first villages,” bringing renewed focus and development. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiating this change and advancing key development programs.
Highlighting initiatives like the Vibrant Villages Programme, the Chief Minister said that significant progress has been made in infrastructure, connectivity, and economic empowerment in border areas, improving the quality of life for residents and boosting local opportunities.
A major focus of his address was the encouragement of local economies through the “Vocal for Local” initiative. He urged pilgrims visiting the Char Dham Yatra to allocate at least five percent of their travel budget to purchase locally made products, particularly those crafted by women’s self-help groups. He emphasized that such support would directly empower local artisans and strengthen rural livelihoods.
“Despite limited resources, the women of our state are doing exceptional work,” Dhami said, praising their dedication and craftsmanship. He encouraged visitors to actively contribute to their growth by buying indigenous products, describing them as high-quality and culturally rich.
During the visit, the Chief Minister also called for a safe and environmentally responsible pilgrimage. He appealed to devotees to help make the Char Dham Yatra plastic-free and sustainable, stressing the importance of preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem while undertaking religious journeys.
The visit was marked by a vibrant cultural welcome, as women of Mana village greeted the Chief Minister with traditional “mangal geet” and presented locally made products. Dhami expressed his appreciation for their hospitality and acknowledged the deep-rooted traditions and heritage of the region.
He also interacted with the village’s “Lakhpati Didis,” women entrepreneurs earning over one lakh annually, and praised their achievements as a symbol of empowerment and self-reliance in rural India.
The visit highlighted a blend of development, cultural pride, and economic empowerment, positioning Mana village as a model for sustainable growth and community-driven progress in India’s border regions.
