Haldwani, August 29, 2026: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held an interaction with traders, industrial representatives and office-bearers of trade bodies from the Kumaon region at ITC Fortune in Haldwani after attending the National Sports Day programme. He listened to their concerns and assured them that the state government would extend full support to resolve genuine business-related issues.
During the meeting, representatives raised concerns related to simplification of GST procedures, mandi fees, encroachment and parking challenges, lease renewals, better facilities in industrial areas, improved market access for local products and greater encouragement for young entrepreneurs.
Dhami said traders and industries form the backbone of Uttarakhand’s economy. From small shopkeepers to large industrialists, he said, every businessperson is an important partner in the state’s development journey. He added that the government is working to create a secure, transparent and business-friendly environment across Uttarakhand.
The Chief Minister recalled the role played by grocery and retail traders during the Covid-19 pandemic. He said they continued to supply food and other essentials despite difficult conditions, demonstrating their responsibility toward society. Calling them true ambassadors of “Brand India,” he said the trading community has consistently supported the public during times of crisis.
Dhami said the past 12 years have brought greater confidence in trade, entrepreneurship and innovation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He said the policy focus has been to create an ecosystem where young people from ordinary families can aspire to become job creators rather than job seekers.
He said the Uttarakhand government is continuously simplifying the ease of doing business framework. To provide faster help to investors and entrepreneurs, the state has introduced the Nivesh Mitra facilitation system and strengthened its single-window platform. At present, more than 206 services from 26 major departments are available online through the single-window portal.
Dhami said the government framed more than 30 policies after considering suggestions received from industrial and business representatives during the Investors Summit. He said these policies have helped expand industrial activity in the state and build a more investment-friendly climate.
The Chief Minister said more than 29,000 new MSME units have been established in Uttarakhand in recent years, creating direct employment for nearly 1.27 lakh young people. He said the government’s role should not be to create barriers for industries but to function as a facilitator and partner. Growth in industry, he added, creates jobs and strengthens the state’s economy.
Dhami highlighted the state’s Startup Policy and the creation of a ₹200 crore venture fund to encourage young innovators and entrepreneurs. He said the government wants young people in hill districts to build businesses from their villages and reach markets across India and the world.
He said industrial growth must not remain confined to the plains. To promote enterprise in mountain districts, land has been identified for special industrial parks in Chamoli, Pauri and Almora. A flatted factory is being developed in Haridwar for small businesses, while similar facilities are planned for Selaqui and Pantnagar.
Dhami said Uttarakhand’s growth cannot depend only on large industries. Village products, artisans, farmers, small traders and local entrepreneurs are equally important contributors to the state’s economic progress.
He said initiatives such as One District, Two Product are being used to connect local goods and traditional crafts with larger markets. The government’s objective, he added, is to establish “Made in Uttarakhand” as a trusted brand known for quality in domestic and global markets.
The Chief Minister said sectors including pharmaceuticals, herbal products, AYUSH, engineering and auto components are growing rapidly in the state. He identified Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar as key industrial centres and invited businesses to expand investment and commercial activity in Uttarakhand.
“Expand your business; the government stands with you,” Dhami told the gathering. He said the state is moving forward with its commitment to make Uttarakhand one of India’s best-performing states and that partnership with traders and industries will be essential to achieving the vision of a developed Uttarakhand.
Nainital-Udham Singh Nagar MP Ajay Bhatt, Cabinet Minister Ram Singh Kaida, public representatives, business leaders, senior officials from GST, industries and SIDCUL, District Magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal, SSP Dr. Manjunath T.C., CDO Arvind Kumar Pandey and other officials attended the meeting.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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