Tourism cannot mean that we harm the environment

Pushkar Singh Dhami, 48, rose from student politics to become chief minister of the state and is the only incumbent of the post to enjoy a second term.

- PUJA AWASTHI

He has represented Champawat in the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly since 2022, and was previously the representative from Khatima (2012 to 2022). Excerpts from an exclusive interview

Q/ Uttarakhand, like the other hill states, stands as a geographical barrier and rich resource pool for the country. Yet, it makes news only when tragedy strikes.

A/ Uttarakhand is 'Dev Bhoomi' (land of the gods). The hills and jungles are its heart. For us, both the plains and the hills are of equal importance. The young, the soldiers, and the farmers have played an important role in its development. After its separation from Uttar Pradesh (in November 2000) the state has seen great development. It is getting constant recognition for the development works initiated under the guidance of the prime minister.

As regards tragedies, those are natural and our state is extremely prone and sensitive to them. The only way to deal with such disasters is to take a proactive approach so that the damages can be minimised. This is our focus.

Q/ You are from Pithoragarh, which is at an altitude of 1,627m, and would have seen at close quarters many challenges peculiar to the hills. How has that impacted your manner of functioning?

A/ Be it Pithoragarh or any other district, convenience and ease to the public are priorities. I have faced the difficulties of those who live in the upper reaches of the mountains. However, finding joy even in the most challenging situations is the hallmark of hill-dwellers.

Q/ Please elaborate on your concept of ecology-economy.