The Government of India has approved an incentive amount of Rs 350 crore for Uttarakhand under the Special Assistance Scheme for Capital Investment (SASCI). This initiative is formally recognized under Part IX of the scheme, which focuses on providing incentives to states that demonstrate efficiency in financial management. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government, stating that the approval signifies the effective financial management practices adopted by the Uttarakhand government. He noted that this achievement highlights the state’s commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline.

Uttarakhand’s Progress in Financial Management

In a statement, Chief Minister Dhami reported on the significant advancements made by Uttarakhand in various financial matters. He mentioned improvements in tax collection, expenditure control, digital payment systems, and overall budget management. Furthermore, he pointed out past initiatives through which the state had received financial support from the central government. These funds were allocated for implementing transparent policies in sectors such as mining, which include e-tendering and online monitoring systems, as well as significant reforms in the transport department. The Chief Minister emphasized that these efforts exemplify Uttarakhand’s commitment to a governance model focused on reforms and establishing a robust national identity.

Commitment to Good Governance

Chief Minister Dhami stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, Uttarakhand is setting new standards in governance, transparency, and developmental practices. He expressed that the timely assistance from the central government serves as a motivational force for the state, indicating that it would accelerate ongoing and future development projects. Reiterating his appreciation, Dhami affirmed the state’s dedication to solidifying its status among India’s leading states with a focus on balanced development that aligns with heritage.

Revamping Building Bylaws for Earthquake Safety

In addition to these financial developments, the Uttarakhand government has commenced a thorough revision of its building bylaws to meet updated earthquake safety standards, given the state’s increasing seismic vulnerabilities. This initiative, based on the Indian Standard ISO 1893-2025, classifies Uttarakhand entirely within a high seismic zone. The government has announced plans to amend existing construction regulations to enhance scientific approaches and disaster resilience in line with contemporary engineering practices. Currently, the state’s building bylaws are based on the previous Bureau of Indian Standards framework, ISO 1893-2002.

Formation of High-Level Committee for Review

Under the instructions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, a high-level committee has been established, comprising 14 members, to scrutinize and amend the existing bylaws. The committee will be chaired by R Pradeep Kumar, Director of CSIR-CBRI Roorkee, while Shantanu Sarkar, Director of ULMMC Dehradun, will serve as the convenor. Representatives from several institutions including CBRI Roorkee, the Bureau of Indian Standards, IIT Roorkee, and various government departments are included in the panel. Architects and engineers will also be consulted during the evaluation process. Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan emphasized the necessity to revise the construction rules due to Uttarakhand’s delicate Himalayan terrain and increasing seismic risks. He underlined the government’s aim to establish building bylaws that are effective, practical, and reduce disaster risk across urban and rural areas.

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