Union MoS approves national herbal institute in principle
Sunday was a historical day for the border village of Ghes in Chamoli district as after about 70 years of Independence, this village finally received electricity supply. Chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat turned a switch on to formally inaugurate power supply at a programme held in the village. Responding to Rawat’s request, the Union minsiter of State for AYUSH, Shripad Naik, who was also present on the occasion, accorded his assent in principle to establishment of a national herbal institute in this area. Naik also assured necessary support from his ministry to develop this village into an AYUSH Gram.
A Kutki Jadi Booti Mahotsav was held at Ghes for conservation, improvement and marketing of herbs at Ghes. However, the occasion was historic as seven decades after the nation gained independence this village was electrified. Speaking on the occasion, Rawat said that the purpose behind creation of Uttarakhand state was to facilitate development of remote villages of this mountainous state. He was visiting Ghes for the second time in 13 months, which should make the intentions of the government clear, said the CM. By facilitating development in villages like Ghes in Chamoli and Pipli in Pithoragarh, the government is aiming to strengthen the livelihoods of the people. Rawat directed the Chamoli district magistrate to prepare a detailed project report for facilitation of planned development in Ghes, Balan and Himni villages of this region. A detailed plan should be made on how to use local resources and double the income of locals considering their requirements. These villages are to be developed as model villages, for which the active participation of the villagers is also essential. The CM also directed that organic farming certification should be started in the area. Bamboo and hemp can also be used to increase the income of farmers considerably. On being told about problem of telecommunication network in the area, Rawat said that permission had been granted for using electricity poles for optical fibre. He also said that industrialist Mukesh Ambani had spoken of facilitating free WiFi in hospitals and schools of Uttarakhand.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union minister of State for AYUSH expressed happiness at the Kutki fest, adding that his ministry will provide all possible assistance for encouraging herbs. The Central Government will provide the required financial assistance for developing Ghes into an AYUSH Gram. According his approval in principle to opening of a national herbal institute here, he said that such a demand is valid considering the major scope for herbs in the Himalayan region.
On the occasion, the CM also inaugurated various developmental schemes in the area. Local public representatives, villagers and officials were also present on the occasion.