Dehradun, October 11, 2026: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged social-media creators to use their storytelling skills to showcase the state’s lesser-known destinations, local culture and home-grown products before a wider national and international audience.
Addressing creators, influencers, artists and entertainment professionals at the Shining Stars of Uttarakhand–2026 event at Mukhya Sevak Sadan, Dhami said a creative digital campaign can do far more than generate views—it can bring visitors, markets and livelihood opportunities to communities that are still outside the mainstream tourism circuit.
Beyond the Familiar Uttarakhand
The Chief Minister said Uttarakhand’s public image should not remain confined to Mussoorie, Nainital, Rishikesh and Haridwar. He encouraged creators to explore and introduce audiences to places such as Milam Glacier, Pindari Glacier, Mana, Malari, Chakrata and Hanol.
According to Dhami, a well-researched video, travel vlog or short-form reel can transform the visibility of an overlooked village. Greater visibility can attract travellers, support homestays, create work for young residents and strengthen small rural businesses.
He asked creators to present the state’s landscapes alongside the lives, traditions, food, crafts and aspirations of the people who live there.
“Trust Matters More Than Viral Views”
Dhami underlined the need for responsible digital communication, asking creators to confirm facts before publishing and avoid sensational or misleading posts designed only to gain quick engagement.
He said enduring influence is built on public trust. Content that is accurate, constructive and grounded in reality can make creators meaningful partners in Uttarakhand’s development rather than simply online entertainers.
The Chief Minister also shared his view that discipline, sustained effort and the ability to learn from setbacks are necessary for young people seeking success in any field.
Local Products Need Digital Markets
Dhami said social media can become a direct bridge between Uttarakhand’s producers and consumers across the country.
He highlighted the work of women’s self-help groups, rural entrepreneurs, potters, artisans and traditional metalware makers. He said better online visibility can help their products reach larger markets, raise household incomes and preserve heritage skills that might otherwise decline.
The government, he said, is promoting local products through the House of Himalayas brand and the One District, Two Products initiative. These efforts aim to improve product quality, packaging and market access for goods identified with different districts.
Wedding Tourism and Film Industry
The Chief Minister said Uttarakhand has strong potential to become a major wedding-tourism destination. He named Triyuginarayan as a place of special religious and cultural importance and pointed to Mussoorie, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Ramnagar and Mukteshwar as locations suited to destination weddings.
He said the state is working to develop new wedding locations and improve associated infrastructure and services.
Artists connected to the Mumbai film industry suggested developing a film city and improving local production facilities in Uttarakhand. Dhami said the suggestions were valuable and that the state would examine opportunities in this area.
Positive Storytelling for Kumbh
Responding to questions about the upcoming Kumbh in Haridwar, Dhami said preparations are being made to provide devotees with safe, organised and convenient arrangements.
He urged young creators to communicate the Kumbh’s spiritual, cultural and social importance in a positive and responsible manner.
Singer Pawandeep Rajan, YouTuber Saurav Joshi, Avantika Bhatt, Tanu Rawat, RJ Kavya, Priyanka Kandwal and Asha Negi were among the content creators and artists present. The Chief Minister also honoured several participants during the programme.
