CM Dhami, Union Minister Shivraj Chouhan launch 'House of Himalayas' store at Dehradun airport

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami jointly inaugurated the "House of Himalayas" store at Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport on Tuesday.

The initiative aims to give a distinct identity to the state’s local products and strengthen Uttarakhand’s economy by promoting sales through this new outlet.

Designed to spotlight the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region, the "House of Himalayas" store will allow tourists from India and abroad to purchase indigenous Uttarakhand products directly at the airport. The move is part of a larger push to make the brand accessible and recognizable on a national level.

Congratulating the state government on the launch, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed confidence in the brand’s potential. "The quality, packaging and branding of these products are excellent. These goods will not only benefit Uttarakhand but will have an impact across the country," he said. Chouhan also announced that the Centre would establish a Centre of Excellence in Uttarakhand to aid the growth and promotion of the 'House of Himalayas' brand. "This will ensure consumers get high-quality products while farmers and producers in the state benefit economically," he added.

Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the importance of the platform in highlighting the work of the state's farmers, artisans, women, and small-scale entrepreneurs. "Local products are deeply tied to the state's culture, tradition and identity," he said. Dhami also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in launching the 'House of Himalayas' initiative and reiterated the state’s commitment to self-reliance. "The state government is prioritising local products to achieve the vision of an Atmanirbhar Uttarakhand. This is strengthening the economy while creating local employment opportunities," he noted.

The stores will showcase a variety of traditional and organic products, including handicrafts, foods, and wellness items, offering travelers a deeper connection to Uttarakhand’s cultural and natural wealth.

In a related development earlier in the day, CM Dhami also flagged off five fully equipped Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) to serve remote regions of the state. These units aim to bring essential healthcare services to areas where access has traditionally been limited. Dhami described it as a meaningful step toward addressing rural healthcare challenges.