UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: February 2025 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Opening Dates for Kedarnath Temple and Other Char Dham Sites in 2025

Kedarnath Opening

What in News?

On February 26, 2025, the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee announced that the Kedarnath Temple gates will open on May 2, 2025.

Opening Dates for Char Dham Pilgrimage Sites:

• Kedarnath Temple: Opening on May 2, 2025.
• Badrinath Dham: Opening on May 4, 2025.
• Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams: Opening on April 30, 2025, coinciding with Akshaya Tritiya.
• These four sites are part of the Char Dham, an important Hindu pilgrimage circuit.

Decision for Kedarnath Temple Opening:

• The auspicious date and time for the opening of Kedarnath Temple were chosen by religious gurus and Vedpathis on Mahashivratri.
• This decision was made after conducting prayers at the Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath, which is the winter residence of Baba Kedar.

Char Dham Yatra

Yamunotri Dham

• Location: Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand.
• Dedicated to: Goddess Yamuna, who is revered as the second-most sacred river in India, following the Ganges.

Gangotri Dham

• Dedicated to: Goddess Ganga, the river Ganga is considered the most sacred of all Indian rivers.

Kedarnath Dham

• Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand.
• Dedicated to: Lord Shiva.
• Features: Kedarnath Dham is situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, which are sacred representations of Lord Shiva.

Badrinath Dham

• Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.
• Features: Home to the Badrinarayan Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Significance: Badrinath Dham is one of the holiest shrines for Vaishnavites, followers of Lord Vishnu.

Uttarakhand's Afforestation Authority Mismanaged Funds

Kalagarh Reserve Issues

A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) on the Compulsory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) in Uttarakhand has highlighted significant financial mismanagement. In response to the findings, the Chief Executive Officer of CAMPA has indicated that efforts are underway to address the issues raised in the report.

CAG Flags CAMPA Expenditures:

• The CAG report, covering the years 2019-20 to 2021-22, found improper spending amounting to Rs 753.89 crore across 43 forest divisions.
• The CAG specifically flagged Rs 13.86 crore of the allocated funds for CAMPA as questionable.
• The Chief Executive Officer of CAMPA stated that the audit findings need verification to determine if the spending was approved by the administration.

Disputed Purchases:

• The purchase of two mobile phones was disputed, but CAMPA rules do not prohibit such acquisitions.
• CAMPA rules permit expenses for communication and IT equipment necessary for protecting forests and wildlife.

Major Fund Diversions Identified:

• The CAG report identified major diversions of funds in several forest divisions, including:
• Haridwar, Tons, Nainital, and Narendranagar forest divisions, which spent Rs 3.6 crore on building renovations, Harela, and fencing.
• Kalagarh Tiger Reserve (Lansdowne division), which diverted Rs 1.71 crorefor various purposes, including:
  • Tiger safari
  • Motor road construction
  • Elephant protection wall
  • Forest Rest House repairs
  • Solar fencing and lantana removal
• The CAG noted that the diversion of funds in the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve was included in the Annual Plan of Operations (APO) without proper ground-level analysis.

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

• The CAG of India is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department (IA-AD) as per Article 148 of the Constitution.
• The CAG is responsible for protecting public funds and managing financial systems at both the central and state levels in India.
• The CAG upholds the Constitution and parliamentary laws in financial administration, playing a crucial role in India’s democratic system alongside the Supreme Court, Election Commission, and Union Public Service Commission.
• The CAG operates under the Comptroller and Auditor-General’s (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971, which has been amended significantly in 1976, 1984, and 1987.

Kalagarh Tiger Reserve (KTR)

• About: KTR is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand and was established in 1974, with the northern region designated as Kalagarh Tiger Reserve. The reserve is named after the Kalagarh Dam, built on the Ramganga River, and covers an area of 301.18 square kilometers, including Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Jim Corbett Park.
• Terrain: The reserve is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and features a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and hills.
• Flora: KTR is home to various tree species, including sal, sheesham, bamboo, semal, bakli, haladu, tun, sain, fig, and others. The reserve is also rich in medicinal plants.
• Fauna: The reserve hosts a high density of tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wild cats. Various deer species, such as chital, barking deer, goral, sambar, and hog deer, are also present. Additionally, KTR is home to more than 580 bird species, including kingfishers, pheasants, hornbills, wagtails, forktails, and others.

Decline in Organic Exports from Uttarakhand

The Confederation of Organic Food Producers and Marketing Agencies (COII) has expressed concern over a drastic 66% decline in organic product exports from Uttarakhand.

In the financial year 2022-23, Uttarakhand exported 285 tonnes of organic products worth Rs. 11.6 crore. However, this figure plummeted to 97 tonnes valued at Rs. 4.2 crore in 2023-24, indicating a severe downturn.

Factors Contributing to the Decline:

• The primary reason for the decline is the non-implementation of the “Uttarakhand Organic” policy by the state government.
• There is a mass exodus of individuals seeking better job opportunities, as many find agriculture to be unprofitable.
• The state government’s inadequate support for farmers in terms of incentives, mandis, training, and demonstration programmes has significantly contributed to this decline.

Initiatives Undertaken:

• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was established between COII and GB Pant University to supply organic farming technology to farmers.
• Training for 500 farmers and assistance in obtaining organic certification has commenced.
• The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is expected to conduct training programmes in remote areas of the state and regularly organise buyer-seller meetings.
• The state government is urged to provide financial support to farmers transitioning from synthetic to organic farming for a minimum of three years and to enhance infrastructure.

Anticipated Outcomes:

• The revitalisation of organic farming is expected when it becomes financially viable, attracting a new generation to promote it.
• This shift will spur the development of agri-based micro and small industries, generating new employment opportunities in horticulture and handicrafts.

Organic Farming

• Organic farming is an agricultural approach that emphasises the health of soils, ecosystems, and individuals by avoiding synthetic chemicals and relying on natural processes.
• It is based on ecological cycles and combines tradition, innovation, and science to enhance environmental benefits and promote fair practices.
• While organic farming generally avoids external inputs, certification systems allow the use of organic, biological, and mineral supplements when necessary.

National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP):

• The NPOP, launched in 2001 and overseen by APEDA under the Ministry of Commerce & Industries, focuses on accreditation, setting organic production standards, and promoting organic farming.
• This programme aims to enhance India’s global standing in organic farming. The NPOP’s production and accreditation standards are recognised by the European Commission and Switzerland, facilitating the global acceptance of Indian organic products.

Role of the Confederation of Organic Food Producers & Marketing Agencies (COII)

• COII serves as a unifying body for all stakeholders in India’s organic sector, including farmers, producers, processing centres, buyers, sellers, exporters, importers, seed and technology providers, financial institutions, and government bodies at both state and central levels.
• Since its inception, COII has been advocating for the interests of all stakeholders in the organic food industry, providing a collective voice for the sector.
• The Confederation promotes the industry’s core values and business interests, addressing unfair competition and keeping stakeholders informed about technological advancements.

National eVidhan Application

The Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly has embraced the National eVidhan Application (NeVA), transforming itself into a Digital House.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Speaker Ritu Khanduri officially launched NeVA in the Uttarakhand Assembly, with Governor Gurmit Singh also in attendance.

About the National eVidhan Application

• The National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) is part of the Digital India initiative, which aims to create a digitally empowered society and knowledge-based economy.
• NeVA seeks to make all Legislative Assemblies paperless and integrate them onto a single platform.
• The funding for NeVA is shared between the Government of India ( 60%. and state governments ( 40% ).

Digital India Programme

• The Digital India program was launched in 2015 with the goal of creating a digitally empowered society and knowledge-based economy.
• Its key objectives include strengthening digital infrastructure, delivering services digitally, and promoting digital financial inclusion.

Uttarakhand Budget 2025-26

Why in News
​The Uttarakhand government has announced a budget of Rs 1,01,175.33 crore for the financial year 2025-26, focusing on infrastructure development and economic stability.

Key Points
The budget was presented by the State Finance Minister in the State Assembly in Dehradun and outlines a comprehensive plan for the state’s economic and infrastructural growth.

Sectoral Focus Areas:

• Agriculture
• Industry
• Energy
• Infrastructure
• Connectivity
• Tourism

The budget also emphasizes education, health, and rural development to foster overall growth.

Revenue and Receipts

The total receipts for the budget are estimated at Rs 1,01,034.75 crore, comprising:

• Revenue receipts: Rs 62,540.54 crore
• Capital receipts: Rs 38,494.21 crore
• Tax revenue: Rs 39,917.74 crore
• Non-tax revenue: Rs 22,622.80 crore

‘GYAN’ Model for Inclusive Development
The budget is structured around the ‘GYAN’ model, which focuses on:

• Gareeb (Poor)
• Yuva (Youth)
• Anndata (Farmers)
• Naari (Women)

Boost to Industry and Startups

• Rs 50 crore for MSME industries.
• Rs 35 crore for the Mega Industry Policy.
• Rs 30 crore for startup promotion.
• Rs 500 crore allocated under the Mega Project Scheme to drive economic expansion.

Major Allocations by Sector

• Water Resources and Irrigation:
  • Funding for the Jamrani Dam, Song Dam, and Lakhwad Project.
  • Rs 1,500 crore under special capital assistance for states.
  • Rs 1,843 crore for the Jal Jeevan Mission.
  • Rs 100 crore for urban water supply improvements.
• Roads, Transport, and Infrastructure
  • Construction of 220 km of new roads.
  • Reconstruction of 1,000 km of roads and renovation of 1,550 km.
  • Rs 1,200 crore for road safety initiatives.
  • Construction of 37 new bridges.
  • Rs 1,065 crore allocated under the PMGSY scheme.
  • Rs 36.88 crore for the Civil Aviation Department.
• Tourism and Cultural Development
  • Rs 100 crore for Tehri Lake development.
  • Rs 25 crore for the Manskhanda Scheme.
  • Rs 20 crore for the Vibrant Village Scheme.
  • Rs 10 crore for new tourist destinations.
  • Rs 10 crore for road network improvements.
• Environment and Sustainable Development
  • Rs 395 crore for the CAMPA scheme.
  • Rs 60 crore for climate change mitigation.
  • Rs 125 crore for the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARA).
  • Rs 10 crore for afforestation public projects.
• Social Security and Welfare
  • Rs 1,811.66 crore for social security schemes.
  • Rs 918.92 crore for various welfare subsidies.
  • Rs 600 crore for the Food Security Scheme.
  • Rs 207.18 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural).
  • Rs 54.12 crore for Yojana (Urban).
  • Rs 25 crore for EWS housing grants.
  • Rs 55 crore for cooking gas subsidies for low-income families.
  • Rs 2 crore for the Environmental Friend Insurance scheme.
  • Rs 40 crore for free travel on state transport buses.
  • Rs 34.36 crore to subsidise salt for Antyodaya ration card holders.

Strategic Focus on Development

• The budget shows the state government's promise to support overall growth and sustainable development.
• By focusing on infrastructure, social welfare, the environment, and economic growth, the government intends to enhance the quality of life for people living in Uttarakhand.

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

• PMGSY is a central government initiative launched in 2000 to provide all-weather road access to rural areas lacking connectivity.
• Initially fully funded by the central government, the scheme now shares funding between the Central and State governments in a 60:40 ratio since the financial year 2015-16.
• For accurate and updated information regarding the number of rural roads constructed and areas connected through different phases of the PMGSY scheme, it is advisable to consult the latest reports.

Vibrant Villages Programme

The Vibrant Villages Programme is a scheme funded by the central government. It was announced in the Union Budget for 2022-23, with plans to continue until 2025-26. The aim of this programme is to enhance the development and living conditions of villages located along the northern border of India.

The programme will focus on improving the quality of life for people residing in specific border villages that have been identified for this initiative.

• Coverage: The programme will cover border areas in the following states and union territories:
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Uttarakhand
  • Arunachal Pradesh
  • Sikkim
  • Ladakh
• Number of Villages: total of 2,963 villages will be included in this programme. In the initial phase, 663 villages will be prioritized for development.
• Planning and Implementation: The district administration, in collaboration with Gram Panchayats (village councils), will develop Vibrant Village Action Plans to guide the development activities in these villages.
• Distinction from Other Programs: The Vibrant Villages Programme will operate independently and without overlapping with the Border Area Development Programme, ensuring that its initiatives are distinct and focused.

World’s 2nd Highest Trek in Uttarakhand 

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Gangotri Mukhba on February 27, 2025.
• The purpose of the visit is to officially start the winter yatra to Uttarakhand.
• Mukhba (also known as Mukhwa) is a small village located in the town of Harsil.
• This village is positioned along the banks of the Bhagirathi River, which is part of the route to the Gangotri pilgrimage.
• It is situated at an elevation of 2620 meters above sea level.

Key Points

• Foundation Stone for Janaktal Trek: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for the Janaktal trek, which is set to be the second-highest trekking path in the world. This trek will reach a remarkable height of 17,716 feet, providing trekkers with breathtaking views, diverse plant life, peaceful glacial lakes, and a chance to experience local culture through traditional villages along the way. 
• Tourism Initiatives: Several adventure activities are planned, including: 
  • A motorbike rally to Jadung, organized by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB).
  • A trekking expedition from Neelapani to Mulling La Base, organized by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
  These initiatives are expected to boost tourism and promote economic growth in the area through sustainable tourism practices. 
• Cultural Significance: PM Modi is also expected to offer prayers at the Ganga Temple in Mukhwa. 

Janaktal trek

•  The Janaktal trek is situated in Uttarakhand and reaches a remarkable height of 17,716 feet, making it the second-highest trekking route in the world. 
•  Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas, unique plants, peaceful glacial lakes, and opportunities to experience local culture through traditional villages along the route. 
•  This 12 km trek takes adventurers through rough, high-altitude landscapes to a hidden lake, which is surrounded by snow-covered mountains. 
•  The area was previously off-limits due to a military presence, but it is now open for tourists, showcasing its untouched natural beauty. 
•  The Uttarakhand government has plans to develop this trekking route, along with others like Jadung, Nelong, and Sonam Valley, to attract adventure seekers from both domestic and international backgrounds. 

Uttarakhand Bars Outsiders from Buying Farmland

Why in News? 

The Uttarakhand Cabinet has approved a new draft law that bans Non-residents of the state from purchasing Agricultural and horticultural land in 11 out of 13 districts barring Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar.

Key Points

• Restrictions on Land Purchase: District Magistrates will no longer have the power to approve land purchases. 
• Affidavit Requirement: People who do not live in the state must provide an affidavit before buying land. This is to avoid fraud and ensure that the final approval is done by the state administration. 
• Online Monitoring System: A special portal will be created to track land transactions involving non-residents and to ensure transparency in the process. 
• Stricter Land Use Regulations: Land located within city boundaries must be used according to specific rules. If these rules are broken, the government can take possession of the land. 
• Comparison with Himachal Pradesh: In Himachal Pradesh, non-farmers cannot easily buy agricultural land. However, they can obtain it for purposes like industry, tourism, or horticulture with government permission. 
• Government’s Position: This new draft aims to protect the state’s resources, cultural heritage, and the rights of its citizens, while also helping to maintain the original identity of the state. 

Grants for Rural Local Bodies in Uttarakhand

The Union Government has announced the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) Grants for Rural Local Bodies in the states of Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Chhattisgarh for the financial year 2024-2025.

• These grants are aimed at strengthening grassroots democracy. The support is directed towards Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Rural Local Bodies (RLBs).

XV FC Grants:

• The initial installment of Untied Grants for FY 2024-25 has been allocated, amounting to Rs. 93.9643 crore for Uttarakhand.
• For Punjab, the first installment of Untied Grants is Rs 225.1707 crore.
• Chhattisgarh received the second installment of Untied Grants, totaling Rs 237.1393 crore.

Process of Grant Allocation:

• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation recommend the XV FC Grants for Rural Local Bodies.
• The Ministry of Finance disburses these grants in two installments each financial year.

Utilisation of XV FC Grants:

• Untied Grants:
  • PRIs and RLBs can utilize these grants for specific local needs within the 29 subjects outlined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution.
  • These funds are not permitted for use in salaries or establishment costs.
• Tied Grants:
  These funds are designated for basic services, including:
  • Open Defecation-Free (ODF) initiatives
  • waste management
  • Sanitation and maintenance, encompassing rainwater harvesting and fecal sludge treatment
  • Drinking water supply

Finance Commission

• It is a constitutional body that decides how tax revenues are shared between the Central Government and states, as well as among the states themselves, following the rules set by the constitution and current needs.
• According to Article 280 of the Constitution, the President of India must form a Finance Commission every five years or sooner if needed.
• The first Finance Commission was established in 1951, and there have been a total of fifteen commissions so far.
•  The 15th Finance Commission, led by N.K. Singh, was set up by the President on November 27, 2017. This was done in light of the Planning Commission being abolished and the launch of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). 
•  In November 2019, the Union Cabinet approved the 15th Finance Commission to submit its first report for the financial year 2020-21 and to extend its term. This extension allows for the completion of a final report covering the financial years from 2021-22 to 2025-26, which is due by October 30, 2020. 

14th Mid Career Course (Phase III)

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

A training program for Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers was organized by the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, India, in Dehradun as part of the 14th Mid Career Course (Phase III).

Role of IFS Officers in Conservation

• The Chairperson of the NHRC emphasized the vital role of Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage.
• IFS officers are responsible for balancing the needs of development with the priorities of conservation.
• It is important for these officers to understand the historical background of forest legislation and the changing challenges in forest management.
• A strong grasp of the relationship between law, policy, and enforcement is crucial for the effectiveness of IFS officers.

Evolution of Forest Legislation

• The Chairperson outlined the evolution of forest legislation from the British era to the present day.
• He pointed out the shifting balance between development and conservation over time.
• The impact of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act on the acquisition of forest land was discussed, leading to the subsequent Forest Conservation Act.

Judicial Influence on Forest Conservation

• The significant impact of the T. N. Godavarman case in 1995 on forest conservation was highlighted.
• This landmark case played a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of industry on forest cover.
• The importance of strong legal frameworks and effective enforcement was emphasized, as ongoing court involvement through continuing mandamus illustrates the challenges of balancing development with conservation.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

The NHRC is committed to ensuring the protection of fundamental rights as enshrined in the Indian Constitution and international covenants. These rights, which include life, liberty, equality, and dignity, are enforceable by Indian courts.

Establishment of NHRC

• The NHRC was established under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA) in 1993, with its foundation laid on October 12, 1993.
• The Commission was set up in accordance with the Paris Principles, which guide the promotion and protection of human rights.
• The NHRC operates under the Ministry of Environment and Forests of India and is a forest service training institute.

Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy

• Originally known as the Indian Forest College and established in 1938, the institute was set up to train senior forest officers.
• The NHRC is located in the New Forest campus of the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun.

National Games 2025

The 38th edition of the National Games is set to take place in Uttarakhand, featuring participation from 28 states, eight union territories, and the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB).

Current Medal Standings:

The SSCB currently leads with a total of 120 medals, including:

• 67 Gold
• 26 Silver
• 27 Bronze

Maharashtra is in second place with 195 medals, consisting of:

• 53 Gold
• 70 Silver
• 72 Bronze

Haryana ranks third, having earned 150 medals, which include:

• 46 Gold
• 46 Silver
• 58 Bronze

Competition Structure:

• The National Games will include 32 competitive sporting disciplines.
• Four demonstration sports will also be featured: Kalaripayattu, Yogasana, Mallakhamba, and Rafting.

Theme and Tagline:

• The mascot of the games, Mouli, is inspired by Uttarakhand’s state bird, the Monal, reflecting the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.
• The tagline for the games is “Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak. (from resolution to zenith).

Adarsh Sanskrit Villages

The Uttarakhand government has taken a significant step by selecting one village in each of its 13 districts to preserve and promote Sanskrit. This initiative aims to integrate Sanskrit, known as Devvani or the language of the gods, into the education system and daily life of the villagers.

The Government's Commitment to Sanskrit

• Government's Dedication to Support Sanskrit:
  • The State Education Minister called Sanskrit 'Devvani' (the language of the gods), highlighting its importance.
  • He mentioned that establishing Adarsh Sanskrit Villages will help the younger generation connect with Indian philosophy and traditional knowledge through Sanskrit.
• Incorporating Sanskrit into Everyday Life:
  • The government has hired special instructors to teach villagers how to use Sanskrit in their daily conversations.
  • Villagers will be encouraged to recite verses from the Vedas, Puranas, and Upanishads during religious ceremonies.
  • Women and children will be inspired to sing religious songs in Sanskrit during festivals and celebrations.
  • Children from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) will be motivated to learn Sanskrit, promoting unity among different groups in society.
• List of Adarsh Sanskrit Villages:
  • Garhwal Region:
    • Noorpur Panjhanhedi (Haridwar)
    • Bhogpur (Dehradun)
    • Kotgaon (Uttarkashi)
    • Dimmar (Chamoli)
    • Goda (Pauri)
    • Baiji (Rudraprayag)
    • Mukhem (Tehri)
  • Kumaon Region:
    • Pandey (Nainital)
    • Jainti (Almora)
    • Kharkkarki (Champawat)
    • Urg (Pithoragarh)
    • Sheri (Bageshwar)
    • Nagla Tarai (Udham Singh Nagar)
• Sanskrit Education in Uttarakhand:
  • The state has over 100 Sanskrit medium schools, reinforcing its commitment to promoting the language.

Sanskrit

• Vedic Sanskrit is an ancient language from the Indo-Aryan family, in which the earliest texts known as the Vedas were written. 
• Classical Sanskrit is a language that is similar to late Vedic Sanskrit and was used in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. 
•  One of the most remarkable grammatical works for Sanskrit is the Astadhyayi, which means "Eight Chapters." This grammar was created by Panini around the 6th to 5th century BCE. 
• Sanskrit can be written in different scripts, including: 
  • Devanagari script
  • Sarada script, used in the north (Kashmir)
  • Bangla (Bengali) script in the east
  • Gujarati script in the west
  • Various southern scripts, such as the Grantha alphabet, which was specifically created for writing Sanskrit texts

Uttarakhand to Implement Paperless Land Registration System

The government of Uttarakhand is set to launch a paperless system for land registrations across the state.

The Department of Stamps and Registration has created a preliminary framework for this initiative. Finance Minister Premchand Aggarwal announced that the "Uttarakhand Online Document Registration Rules 2025" will be presented for approval in the upcoming cabinet meeting. Once approved, the new system will be officially put into action.

Digital Transformation of Land Registration

• Aadhaar authentication: The new system will enhance the registration process by providing both paperless and virtual registration options.
• KYC (Know Your Customer): Individuals involved in property transactions can choose to visit sub-registrar offices in person or verify documents online.
• Sub-registrars will complete the process using digital signatures and notify the parties through WhatsApp and email.
• Integrating Aadhaar authentication into the land transaction process is expected to improve public convenience and increase transparency.
• This initiative aims to reduce fraudulent activities in the registration process, ensuring that buying and selling land is both transparent and efficient.

The Aadhaar number is a 12-digit identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India, serving as proof of identity and address anywhere in India. This number is unique to each individual and is valid for a lifetime. In the future, the Aadhaar number will assist residents in accessing various banking, mobile, and other government and non-government services. It verifies individual identities based on demographic and biometric details. Aadhaar is a voluntary service available to all residents, regardless of their existing documentation.

Uttarakhand Promotes Green Games

In the ongoing 38th National Games, Uttarakhand has introduced new initiatives that support the Green Games theme. Sustainable practices are being incorporated into various parts of the event. The state has promoted local culture and placed a strong emphasis on women’s health.

Green Games Initiatives:

• Mascot and Medals: Uttarakhand has chosen a local animal as the official mascot to raise awareness about conservation. Medals for winners are uniquely made from e-waste, showcasing innovative recycling efforts.
• Khel Van: The state is creating a Sports Forest, known as Khel Van, to honor successful athletes. A designated area of 2.77 hectares will feature 1,600 Rudraksha trees, significant for their cultural and ecological value.
• Sustainable Practices: The event promotes sustainability through various practices, such as using recycled materials for invitation cards to minimize plastic waste and encouraging the use of reusable water bottles.

Repurposing Sports Waste:

• Artistic Creations: Symbols like a running athlete and the Monal bird have been crafted from repurposed sports materials, highlighting creativity in waste management.
• E-Waste Sculpture: large tiger sculpture made entirely from e-waste has become a focal point at the Games, attracting visitors and raising awareness about e-waste issues.

Promoting Fitness and Sustainability:

• Bicycles are made available at event venues to encourage both environmental conservation and physical fitness among participants and visitors.

Women’s Health Takes Priority:

• Menstrual Health Initiative: Uttarakhand is addressing menstrual health awareness by providing female athletes with kits containing sanitary pads and other essential items. This initiative has garnered praise for prioritizing women’s health in sports.

Yoga and Mallakhamb:

• For the first time, traditional Indian sports such as Yoga and Mallakhamb have been included in the National Games medal tally, recognizing their cultural significance and promoting their practice.

Celebrating Local Culture and Tourism:

• Cultural Showcase: Uttarakhand has ensured that the National Games not only highlight local culture but also extend to lesser-known areas. Events are taking place in picturesque locations like Tehri and Almora, promoting tourism in these regions.

Showcasing Pahadi Heritage:

• Aipan Art: This traditional folk art, created by women in Uttarakhand, is being featured in posters, banners, and event decorations. Aipan involves applying white motifs on a brick-red background, using a rice flour paste. The motifs, which include religious symbols and nature-inspired designs, are believed to invoke divine blessings and protection.
• Traditional Cuisine: Local dishes such as Jhangora (barnyard millet) and Gahat Dal (a lentil dish) are being served and highlighted in event materials, giving participants a taste of the region’s culinary heritage.