Dehradun, Nov 3 (NationPress) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced on Monday that the residents of the state are filled with anticipation to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be addressing a significant event on November 9 as part of the state’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

During a review of the preparations for PM Modi’s grand rally, the Chief Minister noted the palpable enthusiasm among the populace to receive him, attributing this to the numerous developmental initiatives undertaken under his leadership.

CM Dhami also emphasized that the BJP government has initiated a widespread campaign against encroachments throughout the state.

“To date, over 9,000 acres of land have been reclaimed from illegal encroachments. This is not just an administrative measure, but a significant effort to restore the dignity and order of Devbhoomi,” he stated.

Uttarakhand was established on November 9, 2000, as the 27th state of India, following its separation from northern Uttar Pradesh. Originally named Uttaranchal, it was officially renamed Uttarakhand in 2007.

The formation of this new hill state was the result of decades of persistent activism and protests by the local populace, who felt overlooked by the government in Lucknow and sought a separate state to maintain their unique cultural identity and tackle specific developmental issues related to the mountainous landscape.

Earlier, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu for her encouraging remarks during her address in the state Assembly, stating that her speech will guide the elected representatives for another 25 years.

In a message on X, the Chief Minister remarked, “Droupadi Murmu Ji, while commending the efforts made towards women’s empowerment in Uttarakhand, has motivated us to work with total dedication for the public good.”

In her address, President Murmu commended the lawmakers for endorsing a Uniform Civil Code within the state.

“Our Constitution's framers included provisions under Article 44 for establishing a 'Uniform Civil Code for citizens'. I commend the members of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly for their role in implementing the Uniform Civil Code Bill in alignment with the Constitution’s policy directives,” stated President Murmu.

The President also urged lawmakers to ensure that the state progresses in development while safeguarding its natural treasures.

Murmu acknowledged the significant achievements made by the hill state over the past 25 years through legislation aimed at enhancing transparency, morality, and social justice.

“It is a source of great joy that during these past 25 years, the people of Uttarakhand have reached remarkable development milestones. The state has shown commendable advancement in areas such as environment, energy, tourism, health services, and education,” she remarked.

She applauded the legislators for passing over 550 bills in the Assembly, which includes the Lokayukta Bill, Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Bill, and the Anti-Cheating Bill.

The President also pointed out the improvements in the literacy rate, enhanced health services, and a notable decrease in both maternal and infant mortality rates.