Dehradun: A case has been registered at the Rajpur police station against a social media account operator and an unknown person for allegedly circulating misleading and unauthorized content on social media regarding the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit-2023 and investments in the state. Giving details of investment-related figures, Industries Secretary Vinay Shankar Pandey stated that details of all projects are available on government websites. He remarked that creating a misleading narrative about investments without full factual knowledge is inappropriate.
In a complaint filed with the police, Additional Director-level officer Mrityunjay Singh alleged that misleading content regarding state investments and government efforts was being circulated on social media platforms. The complaint expressed apprehension that this could adversely affect the state’s investment-related image and industrial environment. The police registered a case and handed over the investigation to Sub-Inspector Devendra Singh Chauhan.
Memorandums of Understanding Worth ₹3.56 Lakh Crore Signed
Industries Secretary Vinay Shankar Pandey stated that during the Global Investors Summit held in December 2023, Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) worth approximately ₹3.56 lakh crore were signed. Out of these, investments exceeding ₹1.01 lakh crore have already been grounded. He noted that ground-breaking ceremonies were held periodically to advance investment proposals, and Nivesh Mitras (investment friends) were appointed to assist investors.
He stated that investment-related data is available on the portals of the Industries Department, UK-SPICE, and the single-window clearance system. This includes information regarding projects, concerned departments, and their locations. The government stated that continuous communication with investors is being maintained to advance projects and resolve issues related to government procedures.
Small Businesses and Local Investment Also Deemed Crucial
Vinay Shankar Pandey stated that Uttarakhand’s geographical conditions differ from other states. Nearly 70 percent of the state’s area is forest-covered, while prospects for heavy industries are primarily concentrated in parts of Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital. Consequently, the state’s industrial policies have been designed to balance the environment and the economy while expanding employment opportunities.
He emphasized that the value of an investment is determined not just by its monetary amount, but also by the employment and livelihood opportunities it generates. If a local individual starts a small business from personal savings and employs others, their contribution to the state’s economy is equally significant. The government is encouraging small businesses, local entrepreneurs, and self-employment alongside large industries.
Next Preparation for ₹24,000 Crore Investment
The Industries Secretary shared that preparations are underway to ground the next tranche of investments worth approximately ₹24,000 crore. Information regarding this has also been made available on the single-window clearance portal. He announced that the fourth ground-breaking ceremony will be held soon.
He appealed to the media and other stakeholders to directly inspect investment projects, talk to entrepreneurs, and assess ground realities based on facts. According to him, roadshows for the Global Investors Summit were held in major metropolitan cities across the country and abroad. Furthermore, local entrepreneurs were invited through investment conclaves held across all districts, including the Garhwal and Kumaon divisions.
Police Investigating the Matter
According to City SP Shekhar Suyal, a case has been registered against one named individual and an unknown accused. The investigating officer has been tasked with probing the matter. Currently, allegations regarding the content circulated on social media are being investigated.
