Rishabh Pant wants to move back home, seeks Uttarakhand CM's help

Cricketer Rishabh Pant has sought assistance from Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to acquire land in his native state, prompting the government to take action. Pant, who has been attempting to relocate his base from Delhi to Uttarakhand for three years, shared his request publicly on social media, expressing his desire to return to his roots and contribute to the development of his home state. In response, Dhami directed officials to engage with Pant and offer support within the framework of existing regulations. Pant’s appeal, posted on X, highlighted his struggle to find suitable land in Uttarakhand despite his efforts over the past three years. He emphasized his deep emotional connection to the state, describing his longing to return to his Pahadi heritage and establish a permanent residence. “I have been trying to buy land to shift my base from Delhi to Uttarakhand and I couldn't find anything facilitating and big to live here. I love my Uttarakhand,” he wrote. His message included a direct plea to Dhami, requesting aid in the land acquisition process. Dhami acknowledged Pant’s contributions to Uttarakhand and expressed admiration for his commitment to his homeland. In a response to Pant’s post, the Chief Minister stated, “Dear Rishabh, you are the pride of Uttarakhand. With your splendid performance and achievements, you have illuminated the name of Devbhoomi in the country and the world.” He praised Pant’s dedication to his roots and assured him that officials would reach out to address his concerns. “Regarding the matter you have raised, instructions are being issued to the concerned officials. They will soon contact you and ensure all possible cooperation in accordance with the rules,” Dhami added. Pant clarified in his initial appeal that he did not seek a free allocation of land but wished to purchase property from the government at market rates. “A gift would be lovely for representing our state at the highest level internationally, but if you allow me I wanna buy it from Government and on their rates,” he wrote. This clarification underscores his intent to make a personal investment in his home state rather than receive a grant. Born in Roorkee, Uttarakhand’s Haridwar district, Pant began his cricket career in the state before relocating to Delhi for professional opportunities. Despite his current association with Delhi-based teams, his ties to Uttarakhand remain strong. Recently, Pant was reported to be the state’s highest individual taxpayer for the 2025-26 fiscal year, contributing approximately Rs 23.84 crore in income tax. His income stems from BCCI contracts, match fees, IPL participation, and brand endorsements, including a lucrative deal with Lucknow Super Giants worth Rs 27 crore. With Dhami’s directive to facilitate Pant’s land acquisition, the cricketer’s long-standing effort to settle permanently in Uttarakhand appears to be gaining momentum. Officials are now expected to initiate communication with Pant and explore options for purchasing land under government guidelines. As the situation unfolds, the outcome of this interaction may reflect broader trends in how public figures engage with local governance and community development initiatives.