PM Narendra Modi unveils grand vision for Uttarakhand’s year-round tourism

New Delhi, Mar 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a paradigm shift in Uttarakhand’s tourism sector, urging stakeholders to ensure that the state remains a thriving travel destination throughout the year. Addressing a gathering in the Himalayan state, he emphasized that there should be no “off-season” and that efforts must be made to sustain tourism across all seasons.

Confident that Uttarakhand’s tourism sector will experience remarkable growth in the coming years, Modi congratulated the state for its forward-looking approach. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the promises made for Uttarakhand’s development are fulfilled through tangible progress.

The event was attended by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta, and other dignitaries

Currently, the state’s tourism is heavily skewed towards the summer months of March to June, with a sharp decline thereafter. This seasonal influx results in vacant hotels, resorts, and homestays during the winter, leading to economic stagnation and environmental challenges. The Prime Minister noted that balancing tourism throughout the year would not only provide economic stability but also help in preserving Uttarakhand’s fragile ecology.

Winter Tourism: A Divine and Adventurous Experience

Highlighting the spiritual and adventure potential of winter tourism, Modi remarked that the colder months offer a “true glimpse of the divine aura of Devbhoomi.” He pointed to the unique religious traditions observed in Mukhwa village and the exhilarating winter activities such as trekking and skiing. By developing winter tourism, Uttarakhand could provide visitors with opportunities to connect deeply with both nature and spirituality, he said.

Beyond its religious significance, the initiative holds immense economic potential. The Prime Minister stressed that the move towards year-round tourism would generate employment, benefiting local communities, particularly the youth.

The Prime Minister also outlined the government’s extensive efforts to bolster Uttarakhand’s infrastructure, making it more accessible for tourists. He highlighted key developments such as the Char Dham All-Weather Road, expressways, expanded railway networks, and enhanced air connectivity. Additionally, the recently approved Kedarnath and Hemkund Ropeway Projects are set to revolutionise pilgrim travel, significantly reducing travel times and enhancing accessibility, especially for elderly and differently-abled tourists.

Efforts are also underway to develop eco-log huts, convention centres, and helipads in remote locations like Timmer-Sain Mahadev, Mana, and Jadung villages. The revival of once-abandoned villages is being prioritised, with the government actively restoring infrastructure in Mana and Jadung, which were emptied in 1962. Modi noted that these measures have already led to a surge in visitor numbers, with Char Dham Yatra pilgrim figures increasing from an average of 18 lakh before 2014 to 50 lakh annually today.

During the event, Modi also expressed his condolences over the recent tragic incident in Mana village, offering his solidarity to the affected families.

Recognising the growing potential of homestays in Uttarakhand, the Prime Minister announced that homestay owners would be eligible for benefits under the Mudra Yojana. He noted that villages long deprived of infrastructure are now witnessing a surge in tourism-driven entrepreneurship, bringing economic prosperity to local communities.

Additionally, he emphasised Uttarakhand’s potential as a wedding destination, urging people to embrace the “Wed in India” campaign. Given its natural beauty and improved infrastructure, the state is well-positioned to become a prime location for winter weddings.