In a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the crucial role that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding can play in accelerating the state’s spiritual and infrastructural development. CM Dhami sought the Prime Minister’s guidance and support in leveraging CSR contributions for transformative projects aligned with the Government of India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
A key highlight of the discussion was the Chief Minister’s request for CSR funding support for the development of three major spiritual corridors in Uttarakhand:
- Haridwar Ganga Corridor
- Rishikesh Ganga Corridor
- Sharda Corridor in Champawat
CM Dhami requested that these corridors be supported on the lines of the Kedarnath and Badrinath redevelopment projects, which were significantly aided by CSR contributions from India Inc. He proposed that corporates, especially from the infrastructure, tourism, and energy sectors, be encouraged to contribute through their CSR initiatives, given the spiritual, cultural, and ecological significance of these corridors.
“These corridors are not only of religious importance but will also boost tourism, generate local employment, and improve public amenities,” said CM Dhami. “We are confident that with CSR backing, we can replicate the success of Kedarnath and Badrinath on a broader scale.”
In addition, the Chief Minister requested CSR support for:
- Eco-friendly infrastructure for the upcoming Nanda Raj Jat Yatra 2026, for which he has sought a central grant of ₹400 crore.
- Infrastructure development for the Haridwar Maha Kumbh 2027, where ₹3,500 crore is estimated for improvements in sanitation, power, water supply, transport, and other public facilities.
- Restoration of the culturally significant Chaurasi Kutiya near Rishikesh, a heritage site linked with The Beatles’ visit, which can become a global spiritual tourism destination with CSR collaboration.
CM Dhami also stressed the need for private sector participation in water conservation through support for the Pindar–Kosi Link Project, which aims to connect snow-fed rivers with rain-fed systems to benefit over two lakh people across Bageshwar, Almora, and Nainital districts.
The Prime Minister appreciated the initiatives and assured full support, encouraging closer alignment of CSR efforts with state-led development and spiritual heritage enhancement projects.
Uttarakhand has emerged as a prominent state where CSR investment can make high-impact contributions in areas of environment, heritage conservation, pilgrimage infrastructure, and community development.
