Dehradun: Uttarakhand is set to establish a Yuva Aayog, a dedicated commission to address issues related to education and employment among young people, as part of a fresh push to expand opportunities for the youth.
The commission was among seven key announcements made by chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in his Independence Day address. He also announced that the state would introduce the ‘Bal Veerta Puraskar’ this year to honour children who display exceptional courage.
Dhami announced that special industrial parks would be established in Chamoli, Pauri and Almora to promote economic activity and employment opportunities. The govt will also provide additional assistance and incentives to youth from border villages, ex-servicemen and Agniveers to set up self-employment ventures and enterprises. The time limit for regularisation of Class 3 and Class 4 land will be extended, while landholding rights will also be granted.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the state’s contribution will be increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000. The CM also announced the launch of the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarozgar Evam Udyamita Protsahan Yojana for people aged 18 to 30. Under the scheme, free entrepreneurship and skill training will be provided in collaboration with institutions such as IITs and IIMs. The govt will also provide a grant equivalent to 30% of the bank loan taken to establish an enterprise.
Expressing condolences to families affected by recent natural disasters, Dhami said, “The priority was to provide swift relief, ensure proper treatment for the injured and support families who had lost homes and livelihoods.”
He added, “Along with delivering relief and rescue material to disaster-affected areas, efforts are being made to quickly repair damaged roads, bridges, drinking water and electricity lines.”
Calling state both ‘Devbhoomi’ and ‘Veerbhoomi’, he said, “The govt is committed to the welfare of soldiers, ex-servicemen and their families.” Dhami added that construction of Sainya Dham was under way in Dehradun.
