State PCS - Uttarakhand (UKPSC)

• 29 May 2025

Uttarakhand Boosts Cultural Heritage and Development

Why in News? 

Uttarakhand Chief Minister recently inaugurated the ‘Ahilya Smriti Marathon – Ek Virasat, Ek Sankalp’ and also inaugurated the ‘Pratham’ Gaja Ghantakarna Mahotsav-2025, emphasizing the state's rich cultural heritage while linking it with ongoing developmental initiatives. 

Key Points 

• Ahilya Smriti Marathon: 
  • The marathon was held in Dehradun as part of a heritage-themed program. 
  • The theme of the event, Ek Virasat – Ek Sankalp (One Heritage, One Resolution), is aimed at creating public awareness about health, unity, and cultural pride in Uttarakhand. 
  • The initiative was designed to promote health awareness, social harmony, and cultural pride among participants. 
• Gaja Ghantakarna Mahotsav-2025: 
  • Location and Religious Significance: 
    • The festival was organized in Gaja, Tehri district. 
    • It is centered around the Gaja Ghantakarna Temple, which is considered a significant mythological site in Uttarakhand. 
    • The temple is traditionally visited as the second parikrama site after the pilgrimage to Badrinath Dham. 
    • The temple offers panoramic views from Haridwar to the Himalayan ranges, making it an ideal site for spiritual and eco-tourism. 
  • Cultural Contribution: 
    • The Mahotsav was initiated to revive and promote the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage. 
    • It aimed to enhance cultural tourism and community participation through traditional activities and celebrations. 
    • Events like this play a vital role in sustaining intangible heritage and fostering a sense of identity in local communities. 
• Aligning with the Vision of a Developed India: 
  • The efforts are linked to the broader vision of a developed Uttarakhand and India by 2047, aligning with PM's Amritkaal vision. 
  • The development of villages, panchayats, districts, and the entire state is vital for realizing India’s aspiration to become a global leader economically and culturally. 
    • The government is actively working on infrastructure and social development projects including the Polytechnic Institute in Gaja, Henvalghati pumping drinking water scheme, etc.  
    • Promotion of the local economy through initiatives such as One District One Product (ODOP) showcases the government’s focus on self-reliance and skill development among women through self-help groups. 

One District One Product (ODOP) 

• The ODOP initiative aims to promote balanced regional development by identifying and promoting one unique product from each of the 761 districts in India. 
• A total of 1,102 products have been selected, focusing on leveraging local strengths, including Geographical Indication (GI) - tagged items and those under the Districts as Export Hubs (DEH) initiative. 
  • The GI tag products from Uttarakhand include Red Rice, Almora Lakhori Chilli, Berinag Tea, Ramnagar (Nainital) Litchi, Ramgarh Aadu, Basmati Rice, etc. 
• The selection is made by States and Union Territories, and coordinated with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).