In the serene hills of Uttarakhand, the narrative of migration for urban opportunities is well-known. However, this time there is a heartwarming reversal that not only brings joy but also strengthens democratic faith.
Currently, Uttarakhand is abuzz with vibrant panchayat election campaigns. Everywhere you look, posters, rallies, and election strategies abound with political fervor. Amid this hustle, two names stand out, representing simplicity, service, and exemplary leadership: Retired Colonel Yashpal Negi and Retired IG (IPS) Vimla Gunjyal. Both esteemed officers have now been unanimously elected as village chiefs.
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Colonel Negi Explains His Return to the Mountains
During an engaging conversation with Aajtak.in, Colonel Negi, residing in Birgan, Birokhal block of Pauri Garhwal, shared his story. Despite a career that took him across the country, his heart always belonged to his village. In his tenure in Delhi, he attended village meetings every month to stay connected. He reminisces, “The people’s love in the hills pulled me back, coupled with the poignant issue of migration.”
He credits his wife for their return and mentions, “Thanks to her, I cultivated the barren land that we later transformed. The first year of chili farming brought us 70-80 thousand rupees, boosting our confidence.” Colonel Negi revamped 45 nalies (around two and a half acres) of barren land into an organic farm, setting a model for young farmers.
Source: aajtak
Colonel Negi Urges Others to Return to the Village
Reflecting on his unanimous election, Colonel Negi comments, “The choice must've been based on my substantial work in the army. As part of the Army Ordnance Corps, which managed supplies, I gained valuable experience. Small issues demand solutions, and a chief plays a crucial role. Prosperous villages lead to a prosperous state and nation. Our lands and water resources are dwindling - a concerning trend. Our journey just begins; let's see what's ahead.”
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Colonel Negi encourages those retired from responsible positions, especially army veterans whose children are settled, to return to the hills. He asserts, “Saying 'Vocal for Local' is easy, but implementing it is challenging.”
IG Vimla Gunjyal to Lead Border Village
A parallel story follows retired IPS officer (IG) Vimla Gunjyal. Having served over three decades in the police forces of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, she chose to return home post-retirement. Gunji village in Pithoragarh’s Dharchula, near the India-China border, is of strategic importance.
A recipient of the Presidential Medal for Bravery, Vimla Gunjyal opted not for a high-profile life in Delhi or Dehradun but embraced her village leadership role. Supported by villagers’ trust, she was elected the village chief unopposed.
Where is Gunji Village?
Nestled in Pithoragarh’s Vyas Valley, Gunji was once pivotal in Indo-China trade. As Ashok Pandey writes in ‘Jitni Mitti, Utna Sona,’ “After four decades, India and China reopened the Lipulekh Pass trade route via Vyas Valley in 1992, establishing markets on both sides.” The market in India was set up in Gunji, while Tibets was established in Taklakot.
Situated over 10,000 feet above sea level, Gunji is a significant stop for the 'Adi Kailash' and 'Om Parvat' visits. The village received the Best Vibrant Village award from the central government in 2024.
