Reaffirming the Himachal Pradesh Government’s commitment to holistic development of the state, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday announced significant initiatives aimed at strengthening infrastructure, promoting natural farming, and ensuring social welfare. Sukhu, addressing a public meeting at Loharghat in Kyar Kaneta Gram Panchayat of Arki assembly constituency, unveiled plans to bolster education, health, and rural connectivity.
In a landmark announcement, Sukhu declared the opening of a new sub-tehsil in Loharghat, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the local residents. “The move reflects the government’s focus on improving governance and accessibility in remote regions,” he said.
The Chief Minister also announced a Rs 600 crore investment to construct and upgrade school buildings over the next three years. Emphasizing the importance of quality education, he assured that all schools across the State would be equipped with essential modern facilities. In the health sector, the Government aimed at strengthening infrastructure in medical colleges and district hospitals, incorporating advanced technologies to expand healthcare services.
Promoting sustainable agriculture, the Chief Minister urged farmers to adopt natural farming methods. To incentivize this shift, the Government is procuring naturally grown maize and wheat at Rs 30 and Rs 40 per kilogram, respectively. So far, 398 metric tonnes of maize have been purchased. Additionally, a state-of-the-art milk processing plant with a capacity of 50,000 liters per day has been inaugurated in Dattanagar, benefiting over 20,000 dairy farmers. Similar facilities are being developed in Kangra and other regions to boost the dairy industry.
Reflecting on the state’s disaster recovery efforts, Sukhu highlighted a Rs 4,500 crore special relief package provided from state resources to assist calamity-affected families. He noted that disaster relief aid has been enhanced to 25 times the previous amount, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.
Addressing the state’s financial challenges, the Chief Minister criticized the previous government for leaving behind an empty treasury. However, he assured that prudent financial management and strategic developmental programs are enabling steady progress. He emphasized that new institutions are being established only after thorough planning, ensuring maximum public benefit and avoiding the politically driven, haphazard setups of the past.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to fulfilling its guarantees, including the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which secures the future of employees. Drawing from his own humble background, Sukhu expressed his commitment to resolving the concerns of ordinary citizens. With a vision for Himachal Pradesh to become self-reliant by 2027 and the most prosperous state by 2032, he called for collective effort and public support to achieve these ambitious goals.
During the event, the Chief Minister honoured Nirmala Devi, wife of martyr Havildar Ram Ratan, recognizing her family’s sacrifices. He also commended local leaders and residents for their active participation in development programs.
Health Minister Dr (Colonel) Dhani Ram Shandil praised the ‘Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar’ initiative, which addresses grievances at the grassroots level, fostering trust and confidence among citizens. MLA Sanjay Awasthi lauded CM Sukhu’s visionary leadership and highlighted transformative programs like the Rs 101 crore Sukh-Ashray Kosh, which supports orphaned children and fosters social change. He also apprised the Chief Minister about various demands of the region.
