State PCS - Uttarakhand (UKPSC)

• 27 Feb 2026

Divya Kala Mela 2026 in Uttrakhand

Why in News?

The Divya Kala Mela was organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in collaboration with the Uttarakhand state social welfare department and various organizations working for persons with disabilities.

Key Points:

• Participation: Governor of Uttarakhand Gurmit Singh, attended the 30th Divya Kala Mela at Rangers Ground, Dehradun in Uttarakhand.
  • He stated that disability is not a limitation but a symbol of determination, resilience and creativity, emphasising dignity, opportunity and equal participation for persons with disabilities.
• Distribution of Benefits: The Governor distributed concessional loan cheques to beneficiaries under various government schemes to support the enterprises of persons with disabilities.
• Inclusive Development: The Mela highlighted the role of modern technology and artificial intelligence in creating new opportunities for persons with disabilities to contribute to creativity, innovation and production.
• Significance: The event showcased the talent of artists and entrepreneurs with disabilities from across the country, reinforcing the message of self‑reliance, societal inclusion and support for local enterprises.
  • The Divya Kala Mela reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of promoting local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Read More: Divya Kala Mela 2025, Artificial intelligence

Uttarakhand Sets Up Panel to Revise Building Bylaws

Why in News?

The Uttarakhand government has constituted a 14‑member high‑level expert committee to comprehensively review and revise the state’s building bylaws in view of its increasing seismic vulnerability and updated earthquake safety standards.

Key Points:

• Leadership: The committee is chaired by R Pradeep Kumar, Director of CSIR‑CBRI Roorkee and was constituted under the guidance of Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan.
  • The panel includes representatives from CSIR‑CBRI, Bureau of Indian Standards, IIT Roorkee, BRIDCUL, state public works, irrigation, town planning departments, development authorities, geological experts, and engineering professionals.
• Reason: Uttarakhand falls under a high seismic zone, necessitating updated building norms to incorporate earthquake‑resistant designs, climate‑responsive construction, and disaster mitigation measures.
  • The committee will also examine land-use regulations, urban planning guidelines, building material standards, structural safety measures, and environmental sustainability aspects.
• Report Submission: The report will be submitted to the State Disaster Management Authority and Housing Department, following which amended bylaws will be implemented for safer urban and rural development.
• Objectives: The committee will assess current bylaws, recommend modern construction technologies, ensure compliance with earthquake and landslide safety norms, and outline training requirements for engineers and planners.
• Significance: The initiative strengthens structural safety in Uttarakhand, reducing risk to life and property in one of India’s most seismically sensitive regions.

Read More: Earthquake, CSIR, Bureau of Indian Standards, Disaster Management Authority