CM Dhami addresses All India Public Relations Conference in Dehradun

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami addressed the 47th All India Public Relations Conference organised by the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI) in Dehradun. The three-day conference was held from December 13 to 15 and brought together public relations and communication professionals from across India, along with international delegates.

The conference took place at Hotel Emerald Grand on Sahastradhara Road. It was based on the theme “Developed India @2047: Development with Heritage.” The Chief Minister inaugurated the event and also visited a photo exhibition and handicraft stalls that showcased local art and traditional crafts of Uttarakhand.

Role of communication today

While addressing the delegates, Chief Minister Dhami said that public relations has changed significantly over the years. He explained that it is no longer limited to sharing information but now plays an important role in building communication between the government and the public.

He pointed out that in today’s digital age, information is easily available to everyone. However, this has also increased the risk of misinformation. Because of this, he said, public communication systems have a greater responsibility to ensure that correct and timely information reaches people.

The Chief Minister said that in a state like Uttarakhand, communication is not just a formal process but a foundation of trust. He explained that the state is sensitive due to natural disasters and also holds strategic importance. Because of this, effective communication becomes very important during emergencies.

He added that strong public relations systems can help in disaster management, governance, and tourism communication. According to him, clear and reliable communication can support coordination during crises and help present development work in a transparent manner.

Dhami said that public communication mechanisms should be modern, technology-driven, and quick to respond to people’s concerns. He stressed that during emergencies, such systems can save time and help people get the right information without confusion.

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Development and future plans

Talking about Uttarakhand’s development, the Chief Minister said that the state’s economy is expected to reach around ₹3.78 lakh crore in the financial year 2024–25. He also mentioned that the per capita income of the state has increased in recent years.

He said that the state budget has grown steadily and that the unemployment rate has come down, showing positive economic progress. However, he did not share detailed comparison figures.

Dhami highlighted that infrastructure development is taking place across many sectors. These include education, healthcare, roads, drinking water supply, and transport facilities. He said the government is working to improve basic services so that people can have a better quality of life.

The Chief Minister mentioned several major projects currently underway. These include the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag railway line, the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, ropeway projects in hilly areas, and the expansion of airports in the state. He said these projects will improve connectivity and support economic growth.

On tourism, Dhami said that Uttarakhand is promoting different types of tourism such as religious tourism, adventure tourism, wellness tourism, film tourism, and wedding tourism. He also spoke about efforts to encourage winter tourism, which can help generate employment throughout the year.

Discussing investment and industry, the Chief Minister said that proposals received during the Global Investors Summit are now being implemented. He explained that the government has introduced a single-window clearance system to make it easier for investors to start projects.

He also said that new industrial and startup policies have been introduced to support businesses and create local employment. According to him, these steps are aimed at boosting economic activity while ensuring sustainable development.

Dhami also spoke about several state-level initiatives. These include the One District–Two Products scheme, the House of Himalayas platform, the Millet Mission, and updated tourism and film policies. He said these initiatives are designed to support local producers, farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

He added that the government’s policies focus on balancing development with the protection of cultural and social values. According to him, growth should not come at the cost of heritage and traditional livelihoods.

The conference will feature multiple sessions covering a wide range of topics. These include Uttarakhand’s development over the last 25 years, media and public relations, emerging technologies, taxation, artificial intelligence, cybercrime, misinformation, and international public relations. Delegates from Russia are also participating, giving the event an international presence.

On this occasion, Additional Secretary and Director General of Information, Banshidhar Tiwari, was honoured with a national award by PRSI for his contribution to governance-related communication.

The event was attended by several prominent personalities, including Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal, Cabinet Minister Ganesh Joshi, Swami Chidanand Muni of Parmarth Niketan, PRSI national office-bearers, and members of the Dehradun chapter.

The conference aims to strengthen the role of communication in governance and support India’s long-term development goals leading up to 2047.