Gauchar, November 14
The 74th State Industrial Development and Cultural Gauchar Fair was inaugurated with great enthusiasm in Gauchar. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formally inaugurated the seven-day fair by offering prayers and lighting the ceremonial lamp.
On his arrival in Gauchar, the Chief Minister received a grand traditional welcome with band performances, floral garlands and warm felicitations. He paid tribute to the founder of the fair, Late Govind Prasad Nautiyal, by garlanding his statue. Students from local schools presented colourful cultural performances, showcasing the rich traditions of the region. District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar welcomed the Chief Minister by presenting him with the official mascot of the Gauchar Fair.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the Gauchar Fair is not merely an event but a living symbol of Uttarakhand’s historical legacy, vibrant trade traditions and unique cultural identity. He noted that the fair began in 1943 as a Bhotiya trade fair through the efforts of local traders, social workers and the administration. At that time, Gauchar served as an important centre for Indo-Tibetan trade, where wool, pashmina, medicinal herbs and other local products were exchanged. Over the years, the fair has expanded in scope and today enjoys a distinct identity as an industrial and cultural fair of national significance.
Dhami said the fair provides an important platform for local traders, artisans, small entrepreneurs and self-help groups to showcase and market their products. He described it as a strong example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” vision in action. Such fairs, he said, play a vital role in preserving folk culture, traditional arts and heritage while strengthening social bonds. Preserving these traditions and passing them on to future generations is a collective responsibility.
Highlighting the significance of Chamoli district, the Chief Minister said it is the land of Lord Badrinath, the maternal home of Goddess Nanda Devi and the birthplace of the globally recognised Chipko Movement. He also paid tribute to the brave soldiers from the region who have made supreme sacrifices in service of the nation.
The Chief Minister stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, continuous efforts are being made to develop border villages as the country’s “first villages” rather than its “last villages.” Expansion of infrastructure, improvement in living standards and holistic development of border areas remain key priorities of the government.
He said the state government is committed to creating employment and self-employment opportunities for youth within their own villages and regions. Initiatives in agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, tourism and handicrafts are being promoted to increase incomes and reduce migration. The Tourism Policy, Homestay Policy, Film Policy and Solar Self-Employment Scheme are among the measures being implemented to achieve this objective.
Referring to local products such as Chamoli’s woollen handicrafts, pulses, rajma, mandua, jhangora, honey and medicinal herbs, the Chief Minister said the “House of Himalayas” brand was launched to help them access national and international markets. He informed that the brand’s business turnover has already crossed ₹6 crore, reflecting the dedication, confidence and economic empowerment of the state’s women.
Responding positively to demands raised by public representatives and local residents, the Chief Minister announced that a committee would soon be constituted to address issues related to Simli Hospital and hear all stakeholders. He also assured support for the construction of a Press Club building, requesting local authorities to identify suitable land for the project.
The Chief Minister said the government’s aim is to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country while ensuring the preservation of its cultural heritage, traditions and public sentiments. He extended his greetings to all residents and appealed for their cooperation in making the fair a success.
During the event, senior journalist Lalit Prasad Lakhera of Bamoth village in Chamoli was honoured with the “Govind Prasad Nautiyal Memorial Award-2026” for his significant contribution to journalism and literature. Senior author and publisher Kirti Navani of Binsar Publication, Dehradun, received the “Pandit Maheshanand Nautiyal Education and Literary Promotion Award-2026.” The Chief Minister congratulated both awardees and praised their contributions to journalism, literature and education.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister also inaugurated two major drinking water projects aimed at strengthening water supply infrastructure in the region. These included the Gauchar Urban Drinking Water Scheme, constructed under AMRUT 2.0 at a cost of ₹32.45 crore in Karnaprayag block, and the strengthening and repair works of the Gairsain Urban Drinking Water Scheme, undertaken under a Chief Minister’s announcement at a cost of ₹4.59 crore. These projects are expected to significantly improve water supply services for residents of the respective areas.
