Officer Transfers To Begin As Himachal CM Promises Transparency

Shimla, March 1: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today announced that a transfer process for the officers holding sensitive posts in all departments had been started to usher in an era of transparency and accountability in administration. It is in line with the broader objective of ensuring effective governance and accountable administration for the people of the state. Following successful transfers in the State Tax and Excise Department and few other areas, the Chief Minister has set departments on notice for more personnel changes.

At a meeting at the Secretariat, Sukhu said the state government was committed to ensuring transparent governance. He pointed to steps the government had taken over the past two years to make accountability and reform a priority. The Chief Minister stated that the current government is working to ensure that all government departments function well and are accountable to the people.

The Chief Minister had also directed the Industries Department to involve the Himachal Pradesh Forest Development Corporation in the auction process for mining leases, in accordance with his guarantee. This would improve transparency in the mining sector, and facilitate better utilisation of the resources, for the benefit of the state’s residents, he said.

Additionally, the Chief Minister shared that new rules will be implemented to regulate the use of funds under the District Mineral Foundation Trust. Most importantly, he emphasised the need to utilise these funds efficiently for the benefit of the most disadvantaged segments of the population, for the ultimate welfare of the people.

Sukhu also reminisced the groundbreaking strides made in the mining revenue department. The previous BJP government had earned Rs 240 crore revenue from mining activities in the state. But this revenue grew to Rs 314 crore in the last financial year due to efficient management of the current government. The Chief Minister is hopeful of even higher grows in mining revenue, suggesting that the revenue could reach Rs 360 crore by the end of this financial year, a jump of Rs 120 crore over two years.

On the occasion, Sukhu stated that the state government is continuously working towards promoting the green industries and sustainable development. Himachal Pradesh is targeting investments in sectors that include tourism, hydropower, food-processing, data storage and dairy. These industries will not only promote environmental protection, but will also provide self-employment and employment to the youth of the state.

Recurring industrial growth, Sukhu also said that Himachal Pradesh has the cheapest electricity compared to other neighbouring states, an important element to lure investments. In addition, to attract industries, the government wants the local youth also to reap the benefits of it.

Some other senior government officials who were present in the meeting included Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chouhan, Additional Chief Secretary RD Nazim, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Director of Industries Dr. Yunus and others.

Such initiative of Chief Minister shows its strong commitment to transparency and inclusiveness in its governance for improving the economic and social condition of people of Himachal Pradesh.