Uttarakhand has achieved a significant milestone by securing the top position among small states in the NITI Aayog’s Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024. This ranking shows that the state has strong policies to promote exports, a better business environment, and good infrastructure. Experts believe this achievement will help Uttarakhand grow faster by increasing trade with other countries.

The Export Preparedness Index is released by NITI Aayog to assess how well states and Union Territories are prepared to promote and support exports. It looks at factors such as government policies, business-friendly systems, transport facilities, and overall trade readiness. Uttarakhand ranking first among small states shows its steady progress in these areas.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami congratulated the people of Uttarakhand for this achievement. He said the top ranking is a matter of pride for the state and reflects the success of the government’s industry-friendly policies, continuous infrastructure development, and focused efforts to boost exports. The Chief Minister also said that the government aims to take unique products from each district to global markets, which will help create more jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.

Uttarakhand is already known for being a major destination for tourists and religious pilgrims throughout the year. Along with tourism, the state is now also setting new records in exports. The Chief Minister said that securing the top spot in the Export Preparedness Index proves that Uttarakhand is moving quickly on the path of development.

During his address, CM Dhami also criticised the Congress party. He claimed that during previous Congress governments, vote-bank politics damaged the cultural identity of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. He said that voters have repeatedly rejected the Congress for this reason.

Highlighting the BJP’s development vision, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that the “double-engine government”, with the same party in power at the Centre and the state, will continue to deliver development. He said the public will once again support the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections, allowing the party to win for the third consecutive time.

The NITI Aayog report emphasises that exports play a very important role in economic growth. Exports help earn foreign currency, connect Indian businesses to global markets, and reduce the trade gap. Uttarakhand’s top ranking is expected to attract new investments, support industrial growth, and create more employment opportunities in the state.