CS seeks UNDP help

DAINIK NATION BUREAU

Under the headship of consultant Jacob. J.Simonsen, members of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) held a meeting with Chief Secretary Utpal Kumar Singh at Secretariat on Thursday.

During the meeting, Chief Secretary expected cooperation from UNDP pertaining to technical support and skillful human resources for the schemes implemented in the state in the field of waste management project, sustainable development partnership, livelihood, solar, wind power, micro-hydel project, health and drinking water. Chief Secretary said that we have adequate income sources available and to increase them, there is need for technical assistance from UNDP. He expected utilisation of UNDP’s experience in the state regarding the work done by it in different countries in the area of climate change. Chief Secretary also expected technical assistance from UNDP in the Waste Management Project in the state.

Consultant UNDP Jacob. J.Simonsen talked about providing technical support by UNDP to Uttarakhand in the field of tourism, climate change, disaster management, aromatic plants, small scale industries, self-help groups, branding of products, livelihood security etc. Additional Country Director UNDP Dr. Rakesh Kumar said that in the field of Climate Challenges, necessary efforts will be made by UNDP in coordination with the Forest Department. He talked about giving support for the branding of the state products on the lines of Haryana in the field of livelihood and providing assistance for the Waste Management Project.

Additional Chief Secretary Radha Raturi gave information about the various welfare schemes implemented in the state for women empowerment and child development. To make these schemes more effective, she expected technical support from UNDP.

Principal Secretary Rural Development Manisha Panwar drew attention of UNDP regarding the capacity development in the livelihood programme implemented in rural areas. There are adequate opportunities for employment and economic development of rural youth in wool related projects. She expected technical cooperation in this area.

Secretary Power Radhika Jha expected technical assistance in small hydro power projects, solar and wind power projects. She expected cooperation from UNDP particularly in the power transmission sector.

UNDP’s consultant BP Pandey, Timor-Leste Country Director Claudia Providas, Secretary Finance Amit Negi, Secretary Health Nitesh Jha, Secretary Shailesh Bagoli, Additional Secretary Planning Ranjit Sinha were present in the meeting.