Reflecting on 25 years since Uttarakhand's formation in 2000, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasised the pivotal role women played in reshaping the state's economy.In an exclusive interview with the Times of India, Uttarakhand’s CM, Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted women becoming the backbone of Uttarakhand’s grassroots entrepreneurship."I have visited all 13 districts and met with women involved in various enterprises. We organised 'Nari Shakti Vandan' festivals and I saw first-hand the talent and strength they possess," he said.

Dhami noted women’s contribution in the production of millet-based products, temple prasad, traditional embroidery, locally-made toys, and sustainable goods that are both preserving cultural identity and generating income.

He added that these efforts are creating self-reliant communities and enabling women to lead economically independent lives.Reaffirming Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s confidence in the state’s future, Dhami recalled his speech from his 2021 Kedarnath visit. "When the Prime Minister visited Kedarnath in November 2021, the words came spontaneously from his mouth: 'The third decade of the 21st century will be the decade of Uttarakhand.'”

Dhami backed the state’s growth trajectory with data as Uttarakhand ranked first in NITI Aayog's 2024 Sustainable Development Goals Index. The unemployment rate in the state has seen a 4.5% drop, and the state's financial management was ranked second among smaller Indian states. "These figures are not just statistics, but proof of how Uttarakhand is moving forward with a clear vision," Dhami said.Chief Minister also boasted about the state's transformation into a favourable film shooting destination for aspiring filmmakers.

"Hundreds of films are now being shot annually. We have streamlined permissions and improved locations to attract filmmakers."He emphasised that better infrastructure is central to this growth. "When connectivity improves, everything improves. Filmmakers are coming. Travel between Dehradun and Haridwar will soon be just two hours," he added, highlighting the state’s push on highway and transport infrastructure.Looking ahead, Dhami said his government is committed to ensuring that this momentum reaches even the remotest parts of the state. "Our women, our youth, our culture, and our mountains will together shape a developed and empowered Uttarakhand for the next 25 years".