Himachal CM Vows to Protect Farmers from Displacement
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday assured the state’s farmers of unwavering support during a meeting with Himachal Pradesh Kisan Sabha at Chowra Maidan. Sukhu promised to sympathetically consider their demands, emphasizing that the welfare of farmers and orchardists is a top priority. He highlighted the Agriculture Loan Interest Subvention Scheme, which will save farmers’ lands from auction by offering a one-time settlement policy. Under this, the state will cover 50 percent of the interest on loans up to Rs three lakh, with Rs 50 crore allocated for the scheme.
Punjab Launches Skill Development Prog for Orphaned Children
Chandigarh: Punjab Government on Thursday launched a skill development programme for orphaned and abandoned children. Social Security Minister Dr Baljit Kaur announced that 187 children in childcare institutions will receive vocational training in beauty care, hairdressing, multi-technician skills, and mobile repair. The initiative, backed by Rs 40 lakh, aims to make these children self-reliant by 18. The programme includes financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and counseling sessions to ensure holistic development.
Dr Misra Honored for Pioneering Robotic Surgeries
Mohali: Renowned robotic surgeon Dr Peter C Lim from the US felicitated Dr Swapna Misra, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Fortis Hospital Mohali, for performing the highest number of robot-aided surgeries in India. Dr Misra, using the advanced Da Vinci Xi robot, has treated numerous women with complex gynaecological conditions. Dr Lim, who has conducted over 4,000 robotic surgeries globally, praised Dr Misra’s contributions to the field. The recognition highlights the growing adoption of robotic surgery in India and its potential to revolutionize healthcare.
Punjab Launches Drive to Boost Enrollment in Govt Schools
Chandigarh: Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Thursday launched a statewide campaign to increase enrollment in government schools by 10 pervent. Flagging off 23 awareness vans to cover 228 educational blocks, Bains emphasized the importance of quality education in government schools. He highlighted that 189 students from these schools cracked JEE Mains this year, showcasing their academic excellence. The campaign aims to engage communities, local leaders, and school management committees to ensure universal access to education. Bains also outlined infrastructure upgrades, including Wi-Fi, new classrooms, and transportation facilities, as part of the government’s efforts to improve school standards.
HRTC Employees Thank Deputy CM for Overtime Allowance
Shimla: Delegations from various Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) unions met Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, expressing gratitude for the release of Rs 10 crore as overtime allowance. Agnihotri reiterated the government’s commitment to employee welfare, noting that Rs 15 crore has been disbursed this month. He assured that the state is working to address all legitimate demands of HRTC employees, emphasizing their crucial role in the state’s transportation system.
Nexus Elante Hosts Cancer Warriors for Jungle-Themed Event
Chandigarh: Nexus Elante Mall in Chandigarh on Thursday hosted children from the Access Life Foundation, battling cancer, to inaugurate its 12th-anniversary event, “The Jungle Tales”. The immersive experience, featuring life-sized animals and interactive activities, aims to provide a fun-filled escape for families. Tickets start at Rs 299, with proceeds supporting the Foundation. The event underscored the mall’s commitment to community engagement and creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Minister Holds Online NRI Milnee to Address Grievances
Chandigarh: Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal on Thursday conducted the fourth monthly online NRI Milnee, resolving 343 out of 393 complaints received in the past three sessions. Dhaliwal assured NRIs of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns promptly. The initiative, unique to Punjab, allows NRIs to connect directly with officials via video conferencing. ADGP NRI Wing Praveen K Sinha and other officials were present, reaffirming the state’s dedication to supporting its diaspora.
