Dehradun, Oct. 20 -- Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday said that people have made "abundant" purchases this Diwali thanks to GST relaxation and there has been thrust on buying 'swadeshi' products.

He was speaking to reporters after purchasing 'diyas' and other earthen items from local potters at Chakrata Road in Dehradun.

"Local potters have made good earthen lamps, idols, other decorative items and items used for puja. These are 'swadeshi' items. There has been a lot of shopping this time. I interacted with the shopkeepers here," the Chief Minister said.

"They told me that their sales were higher than in previous years...PM has given a clarion call for 'swadeshi', everyone is delighted and excited about it. Acro...