Known as ‘Devbhoomi‘ and with a growing focus on technological advancements, Uttarakhand holds significant potential to contribute to the Prime Minister’s Vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. In an interview with TechObserver.in, Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd) says, ‘Uttarakhand’s spirituality and innovation offer avenues for transformative progress.’
Edited Excerpts:
What inspired you as Governor, and how has your journey shaped your vision for Uttarakhand?
When I took the oath on 15th September 2021, three principles guided me: upholding the Constitution, strengthening democracy and honouring the dignity of the Governor’s office. My 40 years in the Army, including a focus on counter-terrorism and national security, deeply instilled in me the ethos of “nation first.” After retirement, I engaged with the media and delved into artificial intelligence, recognising its transformative potential.
Arriving in Uttarakhand felt like coming full circle. My earlier stint commanding a unit in Banbasa gave me a deep connection with the state. In the first three months, I identified five key missions: reverse migration, promoting organic farming, empowering women and the girl child, harnessing technology—especially AI and leveraging Uttarakhand’s spiritual heritage. These are the pillars of my vision for a transformative and prosperous state.
How do you see Uttarakhand contributing to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047?
Uttarakhand holds a unique position with its “Devbhoomi” culture and human resources. The Prime Minister’s declaration that the third decade of this century belongs to Uttarakhand is a clarion call. By blending its spiritual heritage with advancements in technology, AI and digitisation, the state can become a model of development. Women and youth empowerment are central to this vision. The resilience, dependability, and spirituality of Uttarakhand’s people are unparalleled assets.
Despite the progress, we see a trend where the youth migrate to metro cities. How can we address this and promote reverse migration?
This is a critical challenge. Historically, the last villages of our nation were considered remote, but with the Vibrant Villages Programme, this perception is changing. Of 57 villages identified in Uttarakhand, I have visited 51, witnessing transformative changes in places like Gunji and Hersel, where roads, tourism facilities and homestays are boosting local economies.
Recently, I met the Honourable Prime Minister and discussed the issue of “ghost villages,” abandoned due to migration. I emphasised that modernising these villages with tourism-friendly infrastructure could attract global tourists seeking spirituality and the thrill of the mountains. These efforts are yielding results as ‘ghost villages’ are now transforming into ‘host villages.’
Another critical issue is the rising prevalence of drugs among the youth, which undermines their potential. What steps are being taken to address this?
The drug menace is a serious concern in Uttarakhand, compounded by mountain-grown hemp and sophisticated drugs entering from the plains. Tourism, with over four crore visitors annually, further amplifies exposure. Tackling this requires a comprehensive approach with education, community engagement and strict law enforcement. Anti-drug campaigns now extend to schools, as even young children are at risk. This societal issue demands collective action from the government, families, and educators to combat the scourge effectively.
With a large number of ex-servicemen and their families in Uttarakhand, how are you addressing the welfare of veterans living in the state?
Uttarakhand is known for its contribution to the armed forces, with 17.58% of Indian Army personnel hailing from the state. With nearly four lakh veterans, their welfare is a top priority. We established a grievance cell for veterans, resolving about 90% of over 3,000 cases. Many issues, from financial disputes to bureaucratic hurdles, have been addressed with the support of local officials who share a connection to the armed forces. Veterans are integral to our community and their welfare will always remain a cornerstone of our governance.
How do you envision leveraging emerging technologies to address Uttarakhand’s challenges, such as digital inclusion and modernising governance?
Technology is the cornerstone of Uttarakhand’s future. As Deputy Chief of Army Staff, I oversaw the digitisation of the armed forces. Now, as Governor, we have implemented AI-driven solutions, including an e-office system and a chatbot named Maitri. Live dashboards for the Char Dham Yatra, disaster management, and education enhance transparency and efficiency. By embracing AI, quantum computing and digital inclusion, Uttarakhand can lead India’s technological transformation.
The Cosmos and the Brahmaand are an integral part of factorisation that you speak of. How does spirituality guide you?
Spirituality is central to my life. Born in a small village in Punjab, my prayers to Waheguru guided me to achieve my dreams, from joining the Army to becoming a Lieutenant General. Encounters with cosmic forces, like the predictions of a Pandit Ji —that one day I will become governor—have reaffirmed my faith in a higher power orchestrating life’s journey. Spirituality aligns seamlessly with progress, offering a deeper purpose to our endeavours.
