By Ajay Ramola
Mussoorie, April 22
In a unique cultural and culinary initiative, the Rishikesh Transit Camp has become a major attraction for Char Dham pilgrims who are delighted to savour the traditional, authentic “Pahari” (mountain). Following the vision of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and under the close supervision of Savin Bansal, district magistrate of Dehradun, the Rishikesh Municipal Corporation has integrated local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into the transit facilities to provide a traditional taste of Uttarakhand to the pilgrims.
Managed under the National Urban Livelihoods Mission, the camp features a variety of traditional dishes prepared by local women, including Urad Dal Pakoras, Kafuli-Bhat, Sesame Chutney, Jhangora Kheer, and Mandua (Ragi) Roti. These offerings serve two purposes: introducing pilgrims to the state’s rich cultural heritage and providing nutritious, wholesome meals for the arduous high-altitude journey ahead.
Arun Kumar, a pilgrim from Bihar, praised the initiative and said, “The food offers a unique experience of Uttarakhand’s culture while being remarkably beneficial for health”.
The initiative has also become a powerful engine for women’s empowerment and local employment. Approximately 12 groups within the Upasana Jan Seva Autonomous Cooperative Organisation are involved in culinary operations.
Sunita Bansal, President of the Ganpati Self-Help Group, said, “The opportunity provided by the Municipal Corporation has given these women a platform to strengthen their livelihoods and move toward self-reliance”.
