Himachal Budget Session from March 10: Key Decisions and Developments
The much-anticipated budget session of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly is set to begin on March 10 and will run until March 28, 2025. This decision was made during a meeting of the state Cabinet, held on Saturday, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The meeting focused on several important decisions that will shape the governance of Himachal Pradesh, especially in the fields of women’s welfare, infrastructure development, education, health, and law enforcement.
Key Announcements by the State Cabinet
The Cabinet approved a range of significant measures that are set to impact various sectors within the state. Among the most important decisions was the approval of 60-day special maternity leave for women government employees in the unfortunate event of a stillbirth or the death of a newborn shortly after birth. This policy is aimed at offering emotional and physical support to women in such difficult circumstances.
In addition, the Cabinet decided to resolve pending issues related to recruitment by approving the declaration of results for 699 posts under six different post codes, excluding any disputed or tainted posts. These include positions for Market Supervisor, Fireman, Drawing Master, Clerks in the HP Secretariat, Lineman, and Steno-Typist. These measures are expected to offer relief to many job seekers and contribute to the efficient functioning of various departments.
Strengthening Law Enforcement and Public Safety
A major step forward in the law enforcement sector was the Cabinet’s decision to upgrade the Sanjauli Police Chowki to a Police Station. This upgrade will be accompanied by the creation and filling of 20 new posts across various categories. Similarly, the Cabinet decided to open a new fire post at Nerwa in Shimla district, along with the creation and filling of 17 new posts to ensure effective fire-fighting services.
A crucial step towards enhancing law enforcement further was the decision to create six new posts for the newly established Police Post Baghi under the Police Station Kotkhai in Shimla district. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the filling of posts in the Planning Department and the Department of Treasury, Accounts and Lotteries, which will bolster administrative capabilities.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement and public safety infrastructure across the state. As Himachal Pradesh continues to grow, such measures are crucial to maintaining law and order.
Health and Education Developments
Health services also saw substantial attention, with the Cabinet approving the creation of a new Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Basheel in Solan district, alongside the creation and filling of three new posts in various categories. This development will enhance healthcare access for local residents and improve the state’s overall healthcare infrastructure.
Education was another focus area, with the approval to introduce B.Tech courses in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science and Computer Science at the Rajiv Gandhi Government Engineering College in Nagrota Bagwan, Kangra district. The creation and filling of eight new posts in various categories will support these programs. In addition, B.Tech (Civil Engineering) courses will be introduced at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Institute of Engineering and Technology, located in Pragatinagar, Shimla district, and will include the filling of seven posts to meet the increased demand.
The government is also focused on addressing emerging educational needs. A new diploma course in Computer Science and Engineering (focused on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) will be offered at the Government Polytechnic College in Sundernagar, Mandi district. This move is in line with the government’s aim to develop a tech-savvy workforce equipped with relevant skills to succeed in the evolving digital world.
Medical and Technological Advancements
The Cabinet approved the establishment of a Department of Nuclear Medicine at the Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Medical College in Nerchowk, Mandi district. This department will focus on medical advancements related to nuclear medicine and radiology. The creation and filling of various posts, including Professors, Associate Professors, and Radiation Safety Officers, are part of the effort to enhance healthcare services in the region.
To support medical research and education, the Cabinet also approved the creation of a post for an Assistant Professor in the Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion at Dr. Y.S. Parmar Government Medical College in Sirmaur district.
Police Stations and Entry Tax Revenue
Another significant development is the categorization of all 135 police stations in Himachal Pradesh into six categories based on parameters such as population density, major crimes, traffic issues, and inter-state borders. This categorization will help in streamlining police staff deployment, ensuring better management of resources, and providing improved services to citizens. This move is in line with the state’s efforts to address the growing demands of law enforcement in an increasingly complex society.
The Cabinet also approved the auction-cum-tender process for the collection of entry tax in the state for the financial year 2025-26. This move is expected to generate an additional Rs. 11.56 crore in revenue compared to the previous year. The increased revenue will help the government fund various welfare programs and public services across the state.
Infrastructure and Transport Improvements
In a bid to improve transportation infrastructure, the Cabinet decided to implement FASTag facilities at all entry toll barriers in a phased manner. In the first phase, FASTag will be introduced at toll barriers in Garamoda, Parwanoo, Tiara Bypass, Govindghat, Kandwal, Mehatpur, and Baddi. FASTag will help streamline toll payments, reduce traffic congestion, and promote a more efficient transportation network across the state.
Future Prospects
The decisions made during the Cabinet meeting reflect the state government’s commitment to improving public services and infrastructure while addressing pressing issues such as women’s welfare, education, law enforcement, and healthcare. By focusing on these core sectors, the Himachal Pradesh government aims to ensure balanced development and better opportunities for its citizens.
As the budget session begins on March 10, the state’s legislative assembly will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Himachal Pradesh. With a strong emphasis on development, transparency, and public welfare, the budget session will provide a platform for discussions on key issues facing the state and its citizens.
This year’s budget session promises to be a crucial moment for Himachal Pradesh, as the government works to implement its development agenda and fulfill the aspirations of the people.
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