Dehradun, Nov 13 (PTI) Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said there has been an "encouraging" 44 per cent increase in the rate of "reverse migration" in Uttarakhand, urging people who have emigrated from the state to maintain strong ties with their ancestral villages.
Dhami participated in the third 'Pravasi Uttarakhandi Sammelan' held on Friday at the Doon University, and said that the atmosphere at the conference felt as though members of a family had returned home after a long time.
The chief minister stated that migrant Uttarakhandis are bringing laurels to the state across various fields through their talent, hard work, and achievements. “The state’s development should also benefit from their experience, knowledge, resources, and capabilities,” he said.
He expressed special gratitude to 30 expatriate Uttarakhandis who adopted their ancestral villages and contributed to their development.
“The active participation of every section of society, alongside the government, is essential for the holistic and balanced development of Uttarakhand. While the government can formulate sound policies, ensure their effective implementation, and act as a nodal agency to coordinate various initiatives, true development—characterised by breadth, wholeness, and prosperity—can only be achieved through the collective efforts of all,” Dhami said.
He urged the Uttarakhandi diaspora to maintain strong ties with their ancestral villages and contribute their experience and expertise in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, horticulture, tourism, entrepreneurship, and self-employment.
Dhami further highlighted a 44 per cent increase in the rate of "reverse migration", which he described as an encouraging sign for Uttarakhand.
Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan described the people of Uttarakhand living outside the state as its true brand ambassadors. He explained that to ensure ongoing dialogue and active participation in the state’s development, a 'Pravasi Uttarakhand Cell' (Migrant Uttarakhand Cell) was established in October 2022, followed by the formation of the 'Pravasi Uttarakhand Parishad' (Migrant Uttarakhand Council) in April 2025, under the chairmanship of the CM.
A dedicated website has also been developed to facilitate the registration of such individuals and the exchange of information. He encouraged them to register on the website and contribute to sectors such as investment, tourism, agriculture, education, healthcare and self-employment within the state.
