Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday paid heartfelt tributes to former Chief Minister and retired Major General Bhuvan Chandra Khanduri and former Cabinet Minister Heera Singh Bisht at the State Legislative Assembly in Bhararisain, Gairsain, remembering their significant contributions to the state and the nation.
CM Dhami Pays Tribute to B.C. Khanduri
Recalling the life and legacy of Major General (Retd.) B.C. Khanduri, the Chief Minister described him as a disciplined soldier, dedicated public servant and capable administrator whose life exemplified simplicity, honesty, integrity and a strong sense of duty.
Dhami said Khanduri dedicated his life to serving the nation and society, maintaining his principles and values even while holding positions of great responsibility. He added that Khanduri was not only a hero of Uttarakhand but also a respected figure across the country.
Highlighting his military career, the Chief Minister noted that Khanduri demonstrated courage and strategic acumen during the 1971 India-Pakistan War. He also made significant contributions to infrastructure development in border areas through the Army’s engineering services. In recognition of his distinguished service, he was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.
After retiring from the Army, Khanduri entered public life and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Garhwal in 1991, representing the constituency five times. He strongly advocated Uttarakhand’s aspirations and the demand for a separate state in Parliament.
Dhami also recalled Khanduri’s contributions as Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways in the government of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. His role in advancing major infrastructure initiatives, including the Golden Quadrilateral project and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, helped strengthen road connectivity across the country.
As Chief Minister of Uttarakhand in 2007 and 2011, Khanduri championed transparent, corruption-free and disciplined governance. His efforts towards establishing a strong Lokayukta system reflected his commitment to accountability and clean administration.
The Chief Minister said Khanduri’s leadership and dedication had inspired many young people, including himself, to work for the development of Uttarakhand. He also expressed gratitude for the affection and guidance he had received from the veteran leader.
Describing Khanduri’s demise on May 19, 2026, at the age of 91 as an irreparable loss to the state and the nation, Dhami said his ideals, honest working style and commitment to public service would continue to inspire future generations.
CM Dhami Remembers Heera Singh Bisht’s Commitment to Public Welfare
The Chief Minister also paid heartfelt tributes to former Cabinet Minister Heera Singh Bisht, describing him as an experienced public leader who devoted his entire public life to addressing the problems of ordinary citizens.
Dhami said Bisht began his political journey through student politics after emerging from a humble family background. Over the years, he served in various capacities, including Gram Pradhan, Block Pramukh, MLA and Cabinet Minister, keeping public welfare and people’s concerns at the centre of his work.
The Chief Minister particularly highlighted Bisht’s commitment to workers, labourers and economically weaker sections of society. He said Bisht consistently raised his voice for the rights and livelihoods of hardworking people and remained accessible to those seeking solutions to their problems.
Bisht also played an important role in the Uttarakhand statehood movement and the subsequent development of the state. As a minister, he made notable contributions to key public-interest sectors, including labour, transport and technical education.
Dhami said that although political ideologies and working methods may differ, dedication to public service remains worthy of respect. He noted that Bisht’s straightforward nature, experience and commitment to public causes would always be remembered.
Emphasising the importance of public engagement, the Chief Minister said Bisht’s life demonstrated that genuine public service involves listening patiently to people’s concerns, sharing their joys and sorrows, and making sincere efforts to resolve their difficulties.
Describing Bisht’s demise as an irreparable loss to Uttarakhand’s public and political life, Dhami said his contribution to the welfare of ordinary citizens and his dedication to public service would remain an enduring part of the state’s legacy.
The Chief Minister concluded that the lives and contributions of both leaders would continue to serve as an inspiration for future generations in Uttarakhand.
