Uttarakhand Government Defends Transparency in Mussoorie Project Amid Investment Concerns

The Uttarakhand government has reaffirmed the integrity of its bidding process for the management of tourism activities at the George Everest Estate in Mussoorie. This comes in response to recent allegations regarding the involvement of firms associated with Acharya Balkrishna, a close aide of yoga guru Ramdev.

Clarification on Bidding Process

The state’s tourism department clarified that tenders for the project were issued on December 25, 2022. Three firms—Rajas Aero Sports and Adventure Pvt Ltd, Bharuwa Agri Science Pvt Ltd, and Prakriti Organics India Ltd—submitted bids. Rajas Aero Sports secured the contract on July 21, 2023, with the highest bid of ₹1 crore, surpassing the others at ₹65.27 lakh and ₹51 lakh.

Addressing Allegations of Conflict of Interest

Concerns were raised about Balkrishna’s passive investment in Rajas Aero Sports since 2018. However, Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Singh Garbyal emphasized that Balkrishna is not a director in any of the bidding firms. He further stated that individuals can legally invest in multiple businesses and that the tender panel followed due process, verifying all facts. A formal probe would be initiated only if a complaint is received.

Project Overview and Management

The George Everest Heritage Park, constructed at a cost of ₹23.52 crore under an Asian Development Bank project and completed in November 2022, is now managed by Rajas Aero Sports. The company oversees various tourism activities, including aero sports, bird watching, astro tourism, cultural programs, and helicopter services, in accordance with Uttarakhand Procurement Rules 2017.

Conclusion

The Uttarakhand government’s defense of its transparent bidding process aims to address concerns and maintain public trust in the management of the George Everest Estate project. While the involvement of firms associated with Balkrishna has raised questions, the government’s stance underscores its commitment to due diligence and legal compliance in public procurement.