The Uttarakhand Cabinet met under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday, 10 July 2026. Notably, it took several key decisions. These cover river rafting, madrasas and settlers on forest land. Moreover, the Uttarakhand Cabinet decisions also cover overseas jobs for youth.
Stricter Rules for River Rafting
The Cabinet amended the Uttarakhand River Rafting–Kayaking rules. As a result, safety rules are now much stricter:
- Rafting without a licence: Officials will seize the raft and impose a ₹1 lakh fine.
- Expired licence: A fine of ₹50,000 will apply.
- No life jacket or helmet: The operator will pay a fine for each participant.
- River guides: The upper age limit rises from 50 to 60 years. However, guides above 50 need a fitness certificate.
New System for Madrasas
Uttarakhand’s Minority Education Act has replaced the old madrasa system. Under it, the old Madrasa Board stands dissolved. Also, the old grant head for madrasas has ended. Now, all 452 registered madrasas must follow the new system. For example, they must affiliate with the Uttarakhand School Education Board. Similarly, they need recognition from the State Minority Education Authority.
Relief for Settlers on Forest Land
Thousands of families live on forest land in Bapugram, Bindukhatta and 54 bagga areas. However, they lack ownership rights over this land. Therefore, the Cabinet decided to form a committee under the Chief Secretary. It will seek a lasting solution, including de-reservation of the land by the Centre.
Other Key Decisions
- Overseas jobs: A Project Management Unit (PMU) will help youth get jobs abroad. Also, the Cabinet created seven posts for it.
- Kumbh Mela audit: Two posts will handle audit of Kumbh expenses.
- Akshaya Patra kitchen: A central kitchen will come up in Srinagar for PM Poshan meals.
- Warehousing staff: 68 employees of the State Warehousing Corporation get the Seventh Pay Commission scale.
Why Uttarakhand Cabinet Decisions Matter for UKPSC
Notably, Cabinet decisions are a major source of state current affairs. So, remember the rafting fines, the 452 madrasas and the forest-land areas. Also, link the rafting rules with adventure tourism safety. Next, for a related story, read about Uttarakhand’s adventure tourism calendar. For official updates, also visit the Uttarakhand Government portal. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.