Uttarakhand has potential of self reliance: Khanduri

Dehra Dun, Nov 9 (UNI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Maj Gen (Retd) B C Khanduri today said the state has natural resources in abundance and could be developed into a self-sufficient and self-reliant state.

Speaking at the 7th anniversary celebration of Uttarakhand formation, he said the state was formed after a long struggle for the development of the hilly areas.

Citing the reason for the formation Mr Khanduri said the hilly areas were neglected and its natural resources were not utilised properly.

He pointed out that Uttarakhand had natural resources in abundance and if properly utilised it could lead the state to self-sufficiency and self-reliance. He said that the state had the potential in power sector and rich forest and herbal resources.

''Though it is a long way to reach horizon of prosperity, nevertheless the step has been already taken towards it,'' he asserted. Mr Khanduri urged the people to support the government in developing the state to a model state in the country.

He claimed, in its eight months tenure, Bharatiya Janata Party government had taken the government to public by organising 'Janta Milan' programmes where people could register their grievances directly to him or the concerned authorities.

He said that one out many achievements of his government was the transparency in governance.

Mr Khanduri also released an Information Department's souvenir "Hamara Prayas-Jan Jan Ka vikas" on the occasion.

UNI