DEHRADUN: Trivendra Singh Rawat, a former RSS functionary, will be sworn in as the ninth chief minister of Uttarakhand on Saturday. He was elected leader of the BJP legislature party on Friday. Considered close to BJP national president Amit Shah, Rawat says he has a one -point agenda of development for the hill state. In a quick interaction with HT, he shared his views. Excerpts:
What will be your main agenda as the CM?
I have a single point agenda --- development. I understand the pain of highlanders (people living in the hills). People are struggling for basic amenities even after 16 years of the formation of Uttarakhand. The condition of schools, health facilities, roads is pathetic. Besides, there is a lack of employment opportunities. I am sure that along with the party and cabinet, I will pave the way for development. I will ensure 100 per cent better services to the people of the state.
Did your proximity with Amit Shah help you bag the top position?
This is not the only reason. There are many senior leaders who have good rapport with Amitji. Closeness does not decide the potential of a candidate. If the party high command has decided my name, I am sure they trusted me and value my contribution as a party member.
BJP won with thumping majority, will party will be able to maintain tempo?
{{/usCountry}}BJP won with thumping majority, will party will be able to maintain tempo?
{{/usCountry}}When the party heads are determined then nothing can come on its way. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah, BJP is working strategically and insistently. There’s no doubt Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal led to the massive win.
How will you balance cabinet? Many former Congress leaders have been elected on BJP ticket.
All 57 candidates that have won in the recent assembly elections belong to BJP. Ours is a cadre based party and no decision is taken alone. Distribution of portfolios too will be done with due consent of legislators and national party leaders.