Dehradun | Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasised the need to promote year-round tourism in Uttarakhand as he highlighted the state's growing appeal as a destination for winter travel and weddings and also urged people to maintain cleanliness in "Devbhoomi".

Addressing the inauguration event for the Delhi-Dehradun economic corridor here, he said, "I am happy that Uttarakhand is emerging as a very attractive destination for winter tourism, winter sports and destination weddings. For the economy of Uttarakhand, 12-month tourism is very important. That is why I have consistently urged people to travel here during winters as well."

Modi said the number of visitors during the winter season has been rising steadily.

Referring to his visit in 2023 to Kailash and Om Parvat, Modi said, "You may recall that in 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Kailash and Om Parvat. After that, the number of devotees going there has increased significantly. Earlier, during winters, only a few hundred people used to visit, but in 2025, more than 40,000 people undertook the pilgrimage. This has created a major source of livelihood for local people."

Highlighting the economic benefits of tourism, he added that increased footfall boosts income for those associated with hospitality, transport and local services.

Modi also referred to the upcoming Kumbh Mela and said large numbers of devotees are expected to visit Uttarakhand for religious occasions in the coming period.

Making an appeal for cleanliness, he said, "We must all come together to keep our Devbhoomi clean. Cleanliness is not only the responsibility of the government, it is the responsibility of every citizen. When tourists and devotees come here, they should experience not only the spiritual energy of this land but also its cleanliness and discipline."

He added that preserving the natural beauty and sanctity of Uttarakhand is essential for sustaining tourism and ensuring long-term economic benefits for the state.