Himachal to Recruit 1,000 ‘Pashu Mitras’; Cabinet Approves 100 JOA (Library) Positions

Shimla, May 19:
In a key meeting chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet approved several policy decisions and recruitment proposals aimed at strengthening rural development, education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and employment generation in the state.

Approval of Pashu Mitra Policy–2025

To enhance livestock welfare and management in rural areas, the Cabinet has approved the ‘Pashu Mitra Policy–2025’. Under this initiative, the Animal Husbandry Department will recruit 1,000 multi-task workers, known as Pashu Mitras. These workers will provide primary veterinary care and animal welfare services in remote and rural areas.

Recruitment in Education and Revenue Departments

To improve library services in government schools, the Cabinet approved the filling of 100 posts of Junior Office Assistant (Library) in the Education Department. Additionally, 10 posts of Senior Assistant and 15 posts of JOA (IT) will be created in the Revenue Department.

Boost to Healthcare Services

The Cabinet approved a significant hike in the honorarium of healthcare support staff.

• Operation Theatre Assistants will now receive ₹25,000 per month, up from ₹17,820.

• Radiographers and X-ray Technicians will also see an increase from ₹13,100 to ₹25,000.
  This move is aimed at motivating frontline medical personnel and improving service delivery.

Increased Subsidy for Cattle Feed

The monthly feed subsidy for cattle housed in gau sadans (cow shelters) has been increased from ₹700 to ₹1,200 per animal. This will further support animal welfare and the functioning of shelters across the state.

Major Step in Environmental Conservation

To enhance forest cover, the Cabinet approved the launch of the Mukhyamantri Green Adoption Scheme. Under this initiative, private entrepreneurs will be encouraged to carry out afforestation on degraded forest land with support from CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funding.

Amendment to Building Regulations in Shimla

The Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Rules, 2014, for the Shimla Municipal Corporation area. Now, new constructions on valley-facing slopes must begin at least one metre below road level, to help preserve the natural landscape and visual aesthetics of the region.

Tara Devi Area Declared as Green Zone

The forested area surrounding the Mata Tara Devi Temple has been officially notified as a green zone under the Shimla Development Plan, further bolstering conservation efforts and sustainable development in the region.

Push for Green Transport

Under the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Startup Yojana–2023, the Cabinet has cleared comprehensive guidelines for the leasing of e-taxis, with the aim of promoting green mobility and eco-friendly transportation in the state.

Public Works Department Restructuring

To streamline infrastructure development, the Cabinet approved the merger of the Design Wing with the Civil Wing of the Public Works Department (PWD). This is expected to improve efficiency and coordination in project execution.

Other Key Decisions

• Approval for filling five posts in various categories at the Himachal Pradesh State Transport Appellate Tribunal, Hamirpur.

• Recruitment of five Ayurvedic Pharmacy Officers in the AYUSH Department on a batch-wise basis.

• Renaming of the Veterinary Dispensary at Sarahan (Nirmand Block, Kullu district) to Veterinary Dispensary Baga Sarahan.

These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development, grassroots empowerment, and strengthening administrative efficiency across sectors.