In a major step to strengthen clean energy and national security, the Uttarakhand cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, on Wednesday approved the Uttarakhand Green Hydrogen Policy 2026.
The policy aims to use the state’s large hydropower resources to build a strong green hydrogen ecosystem, in line with India’s global net-zero targets.
According to government spokesperson, the policy has been designed to align with the National Green Hydrogen Mission 2023. “By utilising our abundant water resources, we are not just looking at environmental sustainability but also at creating a new industrial frontier that generates significant employment,” the official said.
With the approval of the Green Hydrogen Policy 2026, the hill state is set to convert its hydropower strength into a major clean energy hub.
In another key strategic decision, the Uttarakhand Cabinet approved the transfer of the Chinyalisaur airstrip in Uttarkashi and the Gauchar airstrip in Chamoli to the Ministry of Defence. These airstrips will be developed as Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) for joint civil and military use. Given their closeness to the international border, the move is expected to significantly boost frontier logistics.
The Cabinet also approved groundwater extraction charges for non-agricultural and commercial users as a new measure to promote environmental conservation. While farmers and government drinking water schemes will remain exempt, industries, hotels, water parks and group housing societies will now pay graded charges based on zone classification, from safe to over-exploited.
To speed up infrastructure development, the Cabinet cleared a new land acquisition method through mutual agreement. This system is aimed at avoiding long legal disputes under the 2013 land acquisition law, helping to cut both project costs and completion time.
In a move to provide relief to government employees, a one-time inter-district transfer policy was also approved for health workers and supervisors under the Medical, Health and Family Welfare Department. Staff who have completed five years of satisfactory service will be eligible to apply.
To promote industrial growth, the Cabinet approved the sub-leasing of 1,354.14 acres at Prag Farm in Udham Singh Nagar to SIDCUL. The Cabinet also cleared the Uttarakhand Tribal Welfare Gazetted Officers Service (Amendment) Rules 2025, creating four new District Tribal Welfare Officer posts in Dehradun, Chamoli, Udham Singh Nagar and Pithoragarh to strengthen governance in tribal areas.
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