Dhanai joined the Indian National Congress in 1986 at Garhwal University (SRTC). He also served as a president of his university in 1992 - SRTC Garhwal University (Old Tehri). Over the years, he has held several positions such as Joint Secretary, UP Youth Congress (2nd term) in 1994; Chairman- Urban Co-Operative Bank Ltd., Tehri Garhwal in 1995; Vice President, UP Youth Congress, 1999.
