In a dual initiative reflecting the Uttarakhand government’s commitment to both public health and sports infrastructure, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday launched the free healthcare service ‘Doctor Aapke Dwar’ and reopened the ice skating rink at Maharana Pratap Sports College, Dehradun.
Flagging off the mobile medical service from his residence, CM Dhami emphasised the importance of providing timely healthcare access to residents, especially those in remote areas. “This initiative will help ensure that no one is deprived of medical care due to geographical barriers,” he said.
A day earlier, on Monday, the Chief Minister inaugurated the fully renovated ice skating rink, calling it a milestone achievement not just for Uttarakhand but for the entire country. Built in 2011, the rink once hosted the South-Eastern Asian Winter Games, featuring participants from nations like India, Bhutan, Nepal, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. However, the rink had been non-operational for several years due to neglect.
“Our government took it upon ourselves to revive this world-class facility, even if it meant calling in engineers from abroad,” CM Dhami said. He added that a 1 MW solar power plant has been installed to run the rink sustainably, aligning with the state’s commitment to green energy.
CM Dhami also mentioned that the rink is possibly the largest of its kind in India and South Asia. The Ice Skating Federation of India has already proposed organising competitive events at the venue, reaffirming its potential as a hub for winter sports.
These initiatives, the CM said, underline the state’s vision to establish Uttarakhand not just as a Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods), but also as a sports destination and a leader in grassroots healthcare delivery.
