Jauljibi, Pithoragarh, November 14, 2026: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the historic Jauljibi Fair at the confluence of the Kali and Gori rivers on Saturday, announcing a development package of ₹102.72 crore for Pithoragarh district.
The package includes foundation stones for 24 projects worth ₹102.48 crore and the inauguration of one project worth ₹24 lakh. Dhami also announced ₹10 lakh for the organisation of the Jauljibi Fair.
Fair Reflects India–Nepal Shared Heritage
Dhami described the Jauljibi Fair as a living symbol of the shared cultural heritage, goodwill and trade ties between India and Nepal.
He said the fair has connected people on both sides of the border socially and culturally for generations, while also holding an important place in the history of commercial and cultural relations among India, Nepal and Tibet.
The Chief Minister said the event preserves the traditions and folk culture of the border region while strengthening people-to-people bonds. He added that fairs of this kind also support local artists, traditional businesses and locally made products.
Border Areas a Development Priority
Dhami said the development of border areas is a special priority for the state government. He said work is continuing to expand roads, drinking-water supply, education, healthcare, tourism and other basic infrastructure in these regions.
He highlighted the potential for adventure tourism, natural beauty and local culture to create self-employment opportunities for young people in remote areas.
The Chief Minister said the newly announced projects would strengthen infrastructure and accelerate development in border and rural areas. He specifically referred to road connectivity, drinking water, disaster protection and tourism facilities as areas expected to improve local livelihoods.
Key Projects Announced
Major projects for which foundation stones were laid include:
| Project | Cost |
|---|---|
| New state guest house (circuit house) in Pithoragarh | ₹23.26 crore |
| Ghat pumping drinking-water scheme works | ₹13.38 crore |
| Flood-protection works in Khotila and Ghatdhar areas | ₹36.10 crore |
| Motor bridge over the Ramganga river | ₹8.80 crore |
Dhami also laid foundation stones for projects related to roads, drinking water, education, tourism, irrigation and other infrastructure. He inaugurated works related to a link road and Himalaya Darshan shelter in Kanalichhina block.
Cultural Programmes and Exhibitions Held
The Chief Minister inspected departmental exhibitions and stalls at the fair, where information was presented on departmental activities and local products.
The fair featured participation by traders from India and Nepal, along with traditional cultural performances. Dhami said such events reinforce cultural unity, social harmony and traditional relationships.
Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta also addressed the gathering.
District Panchayat President Jitendra Prasad, Didihat MLA Bishan Singh Chufal, Dharchula MLA Harish Dhami, Pithoragarh Mayor Kalpana Deval, District Magistrate Ashish Kumar Bhatgai, Superintendent of Police Akshay Prahlad Konde and other representatives attended the programme.
