CM Dhami, Minister Rekha Arya & MLA Khajan Dass inaugurate Uttarakhand Rajya Yuva Mahotsav

By India Education Diary Bureau Admin On Nov 9, 2024

Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, accompanied by Youth Welfare & Sports Minister Rekha Arya, MLA Khajan Dass, and Special Principal Secretary of Sports & Youth Welfare Amit Kumar Sinha inaugurated the Uttarakhand Rajya Yuva Mahotsav 2024 at the Parade Ground today. Organized by the Department of Youth Welfare & PRD, the five-day festival, which will conclude on November 14, showcases the best of Uttarakhand’s craftsmanship and culinary traditions. Nearly 200 stalls featuring local handicrafts, textiles, and millets from startups, youth groups, and self-help groups are set up, alongside 25 food stalls offering traditional and fusion cuisine that highlights the state’s rich culinary diversity.

In addition to cultural and culinary showcases, the event underscores Uttarakhand’s readiness to host the upcoming 38th National Games and reflects the administration’s commitment to nurturing youth talent and promoting sports excellence.

During the festival’s opening ceremony, the dignitaries performed a ceremonial lamp-lightings

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami addressed the audience, saying, “As Uttarakhand enters its silver jubilee year, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone here today. Events like the Rajya Yuva Mahotsav are instrumental in connecting our youth from different parts of the state and giving them a platform to display their talents. This year’s theme, Innovation in Science and Technology, reflects our commitment to modernization and progress.

“With 200 stalls showcasing Uttarakhand’s culture, this Mahotsav is a moment of pride for every Uttarakhandi as we prepare to host the 38th National Games. The competitions and cultural displays will bring to life the spirit and diversity of our state. Uttarakhand’s youth have demonstrated remarkable capabilities across various fields, and this festival offers them a chance to shine. As one of the youngest nations in the world, India’s strength lies in its youth. I envision Uttarakhand as a fully developed state within the next 25 years, and we are implementing policies to empower our young population. Outstanding players will be awarded prestigious honors, and I encourage our youth to perform at their best during the National Games, bringing glory to Uttarakhand nationwide.”

Youth Welfare & Sports Minister Rekha Arya added, “In the coming years, the Youth Welfare Department will focus on creating meaningful opportunities for the youth of Uttarakhand. Under Chief Minister Dhami’s guidance, our state has made strides in various areas, becoming the first in the country to implement the UCC. My best wishes to everyone present today at the inauguration of the Uttarakhand Yuva Mahotsav.”

MLA Rajpur Khajan Dass also praised the Chief Minister’s efforts, saying, “It is a proud moment for all of us as Uttarakhand celebrates 24 years. There couldn’t be a better occasion than State Foundation Day for the inauguration of the Uttarakhand Yuva Mahotsav. I congratulate the Youth Welfare Department for organizing such a significant initiative that resonates with our state’s values and vision.”

Special Principal Secretary of Sports & Youth Welfare Amit Kumar Sinha highlighted the importance of the festival, saying, “This year’s Yuva Mahotsav is especially meaningful as it leads into the 38th National Games, set to be held in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, 2025. With the theme of ‘Innovation in Science & Technology’, we’re excited to introduce both traditional and new games for participants. The National Games will bring Uttarakhand’s sports infrastructure into the national spotlight and provide our athletes with a platform to excel.”

The five-day Mahotsav aims to boost confidence among the youth, offering a stage for cultural performances, competitions, and meaningful engagement.

Also present at the inauguration were the Director, Department of Youth Welfare & PRD, Prashant Arya, Additional Director RC Dimri, Joint Director Ajay Aggarwal, Deputy Directors Shakti Singh and SK Jairaj, and Assistant Directors Neeraj Gupta & Deepti Joshi and the Principal Sports College Rajesh Mamgain.

This festival represents the state’s proactive approach toward youth engagement and cultural preservation, offering a vibrant space for young talent to thrive. It aligns with Uttarakhand’s aspirations for the National Games, marking a transformative moment for sports and cultural activities within the state.