Khatima: On Thursday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated a brand‑new gaushala at Haldighera, Khatima, constructed at an outlay of ₹7.23 crore. The ceremony also marked the laying of foundation stones for 15 separate development schemes totalling an estimated ₹108.84 crore.
Key infrastructure projects announced
Among the initiatives, the state has earmarked ₹34.44 crore to upgrade a 13.60‑km stretch of State Highway‑70 from Satrah Meel to the Nanak Sagar division, improving connectivity and safety for commuters.
Future expansion of the gaushala
Mr. Dhami emphasized that the Haldighera gaushala will be scaled up as the need arises, allowing more stray cattle to be housed safely. He highlighted that a well‑managed gaushala not only protects wandering cattle but also eases the burden on farmers and local residents, while reducing the likelihood of cattle‑related road mishaps.
Cattle protection in Uttarakhand’s cultural fabric
According to the chief minister, safeguarding cattle is deeply rooted in Uttarakhand’s heritage and is both a social duty and a cultural imperative. He assured that the government is continuously enhancing mechanisms for the welfare of stray bovines.
Current reach and upcoming initiatives
Presently, more than 16,000 stray cattle receive shelter in gaushalas spread throughout the state. A pilot Gramya Gau Sevak Yojana has been launched, and land at 63 sites has been earmarked for new gaushalas in collaboration with the Urban Development and Panchayati Raj departments.
Efforts are also underway to link cattle protection with the rural economy. Special growth centres are being set up to market pure ghee and dairy products derived from Badri cow milk, creating additional income streams for farmers.
Broader development focus
Mr. Dhami noted that parallel to livestock initiatives, the state is pushing forward on a suite of public‑welfare projects across Khatima and Udham Singh Nagar, encompassing roads, bridges, educational institutions and flood‑mitigation infrastructure. He reaffirmed that delivering these projects on schedule, without compromising quality, remains a top priority for his administration.
