Rawat goes all out to attract tourists in bid to boost Uttarakhand economy

Members of the state Congress say that former Congress Chief Ministers ND Tiwari and Vijay Bahuguna were lucky than present CM Harish Rawat as they got the Centre’s support during the UPA’s regime. The present government has been looking for Central assistance to run its various welfare schemes ever since the NDA came to power. 

However, Rawat has planned to generate revenue within the state’s capacity, without burdening <g data-gr-id="244">common</g> man. A major part of his salary goes to the Chief Minister’s relief fund. besides, Rawat has advised his cabinet colleagues to do the same. Bureaucrats have also been told to cut down on unwanted expenses to give a boost to the state’s economy.     

When Rawat took over as the state’s Chief Minister in February 2014, the Congress was being criticised for alleged mismanagement in carrying out relief and rescue operations in areas ravaged by 2013 flash floods. The Opposition publicised that the Congress’ ship was sinking, but under Rawat’s guidance, the party won all three Assembly by-elections. Last year, tourism was paralysed. But this year, more than six lakh tourists visited Char Dham. With a boom in the number of tourists, the business community at pilgrim centres has <g data-gr-id="179">is</g> hopeful of a brisk business. 

After <g data-gr-id="178">monsoon</g>, there will be more influx of tourists, especially during Dusshera and Diwali. Under ‘Mere Bujurg, Mere <g data-gr-id="22">Teerth</g>’, a scheme launched by the state government, 5,000 senior citizens have visited holy shrines so far. The government aims to help 25, 000 pilgrims visit holy shrines located in the state. 

Besides the already over-crowded hill stations such as <g data-gr-id="23">Mussorie</g> and Nainital, Rawat wants to promote less travelled destinations to ensure the overall development of the state. He recently said, “Devbhoomi is bestowed with ancient and modern temples, which can attract tourists across the country and aboard for its <g data-gr-id="182">marvelous</g> architecture and historical importance.” His recently launched pocket-friendly (Rs 20 per plate) Indira Amma Yojana eatery in <g data-gr-id="180">state</g> capital, which has become hit.