Dehradun/Champawat. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the ‘Champawat Saras Corbett Festival-2026’ from the Chief Minister’s Camp Office, Dehradun. He said that this event is not just a cultural festival but a grand symbol of the resolve of a self-reliant Uttarakhand, the enthusiasm of the youth, the strength of the women power, and the cultural heritage of the state.
The Chief Minister said that Holi of Kali Kumaon holds a distinct identity across the country due to its unique traditions—Baithki Holi, Khadi Holi, and Chaufula—and that Champawat is experiencing a festive atmosphere during the festival.
Winter tourism will gain a new dimension
This year, the festival is being organized as the “Winter Corbett Festival,” which will promote winter tourism in the state. The festival will feature activities such as paragliding, river rafting, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, trekking, and bird watching, with the aim of making Champawat a national adventure tourism hub.
Historical Identity Related to Jim Corbett
The Chief Minister, referring to Jim Corbett, said that his stories brought global recognition to the Champawat-Lohaghat region. The end of the man-eating tigress in 1907 gave the region a special place in history.
A series of development projects
Expansion of healthcare facilities
A 50-bed critical care block is under construction at the district hospital at a cost of 20 crore rupees.
Traffic and urban solutions
Multi-story parking will address congestion issues.
Strengthening of motorways.
Major boost to religious tourism.
Development of the Devidhura Varahi Temple under the Manaskhand Temple Mala Mission.
A 45 crore ropeway is under construction for the Maa Purnagiri Temple.
Sharda River Front from Tanakpur to Banbasa.
The Sharda Corridor will connect Purnagiri, Chuka, Shyamalatal, and Sharda Ghat.
Road and bridge projects.
A 55 crore span arch bridge on the Tanakpur-Jauljibi road.
Road improvement work will cost 33 crore rupees.
Strengthening trade and economy.
A 177 crore dry port on the India-Nepal border.
Science and tourism infrastructure.
A 57 crore science center is under construction.
Wayside amenities center is ready.
Chuka is being developed as a wedding destination.
Local products will gain a global platform
The festival will feature Madhubani art, science exhibitions, quizzes, folk culture programs, and a food festival. The Chief Minister stated that this event is a major step towards moving from “Vocal for Local” to “Local for Global” and will increase the income of local products.
Pledge to Build an Ideal District
The Chief Minister stated that a series of development projects are underway to make Champawat an ideal district, and the government is working towards making Uttarakhand the best state in the country with the commitment of “Development as well as Heritage.”
