Footprints '09, a mega youth event organised by the Symbiosis International University and the Symbiosis Institute of Mass Communication was held in the State Capital recently. Not only did the event witness a participation of over 750 students but it also saw the coming together of the country's think tank. Environmentalist Sundar lal Bahuguna and acclaimed photographer Threesh Kapoor discussed environment and media-related issues at length.

Hindustan Times was the media partner for this event. The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'. Addressing the gathering, the CM emphasised on the need to promote Uttarakhand globally as a tourist destination. he reiterated his government's commitment to the all round development of the state.

Stressing on the need for environmental conservation, all the speakers were presented with plants instead of bouquets. Audiences were also shown a short film made by SIMC students, titled Untouchable. The film was based on one of Ruskin Bond's stories.

The national programming head of a leading radio station, Tapas Sen shed light on brand building in the state. The event ended with the resolve to make it an annual event on the Dehradun calendar.