Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Takes Key Decisions: Relief for Disaster Areas, New Recruitments, and Policy Reforms
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presiding over the cabinet meeting
Special Relief Package for Disaster-Affected Regions
In the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet meeting held today, chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, several important decisions were made to address ongoing concerns across the state. The most significant of these was the special relief package approved for disaster-affected areas in the state. This initiative focuses on providing much-needed assistance to regions like Samej and Rampur in Shimla district, Jaon-Bagipul in Kullu district, and Nirmand and Tikkam Thalu-Kot in Mandi district.
The relief package comes with a notable increase in the compensation for families whose homes were completely destroyed in these areas. The compensation amount for fully damaged houses has been raised from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹7 lakh, offering a stronger safety net for those struggling to rebuild their lives.
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Recruitment and Regularization: A Boost to Employment
80 Mining Guards to be Recruited
In an effort to strengthen the workforce in the Industries Department, the Cabinet approved the recruitment of 80 mining guards. The age limit for applicants has been set between 20 and 30 years, ensuring opportunities for young professionals looking to contribute to the state’s mining sector.
Regularization of Water Carriers
A major development in the Public Works Department saw the regularization of 928 part-time water carriers who have been serving for over 11 years. This decision brings stability to their employment and acknowledges their long-standing service.
Teacher Recruitment and Policy Amendments
In the education sector, the Cabinet approved the recruitment of 17 Punjabi and 14 Urdu teachers. Additionally, a 5% LDR quota will be added for SMC teachers (PGT/DPE) in direct recruitment. Furthermore, guest teachers will be hired on an hourly basis, ensuring flexibility in staffing educational institutions across the state.
Strengthening Education and Policy Initiatives
Implementation of National Education Policy 2020
In line with the National Education Policy-2020, the state government has implemented new age criteria for admissions in nursery and first class. This adjustment aims to bring Himachal Pradesh’s educational system in line with national standards, ensuring a more uniform approach to early childhood education.
Home Stay Policy 2024
A new Home Stay Policy-2024 was approved under the leadership of Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chouhan. This policy will streamline the process for setting up home stays in the state by eliminating the need for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board or other departments. The new regulations will focus on maintaining proper sewerage and garbage disposal systems while encouraging rainwater harvesting in home stays.
Reviving Hydropower Projects and Improving Healthcare
Hydropower Projects Revival
The Cabinet also approved the implementation of a revival policy for hydropower projects. The policy will specifically target projects with capacities up to 25 MW, which have been stalled or delayed. Currently, more than 700 such projects exist in the state, and this policy is expected to reinvigorate the sector, boosting the state’s energy output.
Improvements in Healthcare
In a bid to improve the efficiency of government healthcare institutions, the Cabinet approved a cadre division for employees of the Directorate of Health Services and the Directorate of Medical Education. These employees will be given 30 days to select their preferred cadre, ensuring better job satisfaction and efficiency in the healthcare system.
Infrastructure and New Initiatives
Expansion of Power Supply in Pangi Valley
In the far-flung Pangi Valley of Chamba district, a new ₹45.48 crore project was approved to construct a 33 kV line, improving power supply to the region. This project aims to enhance connectivity and provide reliable electricity to remote areas.
New Offices, Health Centres, and Police Posts
The Cabinet approved the establishment of a new SDO (Civil) office at Sunni in Shimla district and five new primary health centres in Sirmaur district. These centres will be located at Kota Pab, Hallah, Thota Jakhal, Utrai, and Naya Panjore. Additionally, a permanent police post will be set up at Sarchu under Keylong police station in Lahaul-Spiti district to bolster security in this remote region.
Financial Reforms: Tax Increases and Changes
As part of the Cabinet’s fiscal measures, the road tax on tobacco products has been increased from ₹4.50 per kg to ₹6.75 per kg. This adjustment aims to generate additional revenue while addressing health concerns related to tobacco consumption.
A Progressive Path Forward
The decisions taken in today’s Himachal Pradesh Cabinet meeting reflect the government’s commitment to disaster relief, job creation, infrastructure development, and policy reforms. With an emphasis on improving essential services, reviving key sectors like hydropower, and ensuring stability for workers, these initiatives mark an important step toward a prosperous future for the state and its residents.
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