Uttarakhand State Welfare Schemes and Agricultural Subsidies
Source:aninews ↗
Why It Matters
Understanding state-specific socio-economic policies (such as tourism and agriculture subsidies), major cultural congregations like the Kumbh Mela, and key scientific research hubs (like Roorkee) is highly beneficial for answering regional General Knowledge questions in the UKPSC PCS Prelims exam.
Summary
During the 135th episode of PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat', Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted key state-level growth initiatives, including up to 80% subsidies in agriculture, horticulture, and homestays, and transparent recruitment of over 33,000 youth. He also welcomed the central allocation of Rs 500 crore for the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Haridwar and emphasized Roorkee's legacy as a premier center for science and technology [1.1].
Key Points
- Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami listened to the 135th edition of PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' in Roorkee [1.1].
- The state government offers up to 80% subsidies in horticulture, agriculture, and homestays to foster self-employment and rural livelihoods [1.1].
- A central allocation of Rs 500 crore has been designated for organizing the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Uttarakhand (Haridwar) [1.1].
- The Chief Minister highlighted that Uttarakhand has secured over 33,000 public service appointments through transparent employment processes [1.1].
- Roorkee was emphasized as a major historical hub for science, technology, research, and innovation in the state [1.1].
- The demographic dividend of India was highlighted, noting that 65% of the population is under the age of 42 [1.1].
Important Terms
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Homestay Scheme
A scheme by the Uttarakhand Government providing capital and interest subsidies to homeowners to establish tourist homestays, aiming to promote rural tourism, generate local self-employment, and preserve state culture.
UPSC context
GS Paper II (Government Schemes) and GS Paper III (Tourism & Economy); tests understanding of rural livelihood models and state-sponsored tourism policies.
IIT Roorkee
Established in 1847 as the Thomason College of Civil Engineering, it is India’s oldest engineering institution. It was converted into the seventh Indian Institute of Technology in 2001 as an Institution of National Importance.
UPSC context
GS Paper I (Modern History) and GS Paper III (Science & Technology); tests knowledge of historic educational institutions and technological advancements in India.
National Institute of Hydrology
A premier autonomous research institute under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, established in 1978 in Roorkee. It conducts and coordinates systematic, scientific R&D in hydrology, water resources management, and climate change impacts.
UPSC context
GS Paper I (Geography) and GS Paper III (Environment & S&T); tests concepts of hydrologic research, sustainable water management, and institutional frameworks.
Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB)
The apex statutory body chaired by the Tourism Minister of Uttarakhand, responsible for advising the state government, regulating tourism activities, and promoting the state as a leading eco-friendly and global tourist destination.
UPSC context
GS Paper II (Statutory Bodies) and GS Paper III (Economy & Tourism); tests knowledge of state-level institutional architecture and regional economic development strategies.
Mann Ki Baat
A monthly radio program hosted by the Prime Minister of India, serving as a direct communication channel to citizens to share governance ideas, success stories, and national development goals.
UPSC context
GS Paper II (Governance and Public Policy); tests understanding of citizen-state communication mechanisms, social mobilization, and interactive governance.
Prelims Trap
The National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), located in Roorkee, is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
UPSC frequently tests the parent ministries of autonomous scientific bodies. NIH is under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, not Science & Technology, despite its heavy R&D focus.
Static Concepts Connected
What is the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage and India's representation?
- Purpose: Established under the 2003 Convention to safeguard oral traditions, performing arts, rituals, festive events, and traditional craftsmanship.
- Key Inscriptions: India has 15 elements inscribed, including Kumbh Mela (2017), Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), and Garba of Gujarat (2023).
- Nodal Body: The Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Ministry of Culture is the nodal agency for coordinating nominations from India.
What is the historical origin and significance of the Thomason College of Civil Engineering (IIT Roorkee)?
- Foundation: Established in 1847 by Lieutenant Governor James Thomason, it is the oldest engineering institution in Asia.
- Colonial Mandate: It was created primarily to train personnel for the construction of the Upper Ganges Canal, a major British engineering project.
- Evolution: Elevated to the University of Roorkee in 1949 and subsequently chartered as an IIT in 2001.
Cross-Topic Patterns
Homestays vs. Himalayan Carrying Capacity
Balancing massive state subsidies for homestays with the strict ecological carrying capacity guidelines of the Supreme Court for the fragile Indian Himalayan Region.
Intangible Heritage and Cultural Diplomacy
Using massive spiritual congregations like the Haridwar Kumbh Mela to boost local services and position India's UNESCO-recognized living traditions as tools of cultural diplomacy.
2026 Prelims may link India's UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages (like Kumbh Mela) directly to their respective geographical river basins.
Linked PYQs · 4
Linked PYQs · 4
- 2025UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
Which one of the following is incorrectly matched about festivals/exhibitions/expos held in Uttarakhand in 2025?
- 2025UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
Which of the following is incorrectly matched about Central Government Institutes located in Uttarakhand?
- 2024UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
UTDB is established in Uttarakhand to promote:
- 2025UKPSC_PRELIMSGS1
Which of the following districts of Uttarakhand has the highest agricultural land ?
