Himachal Pradesh Announces Major Women's Empowerment Initiatives on International Women's Day
In a significant move to bolster gender equality, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has unveiled a series of progressive measures aimed at empowering women across the state. Presiding over a Women's Day function at Nahan in Sirmaur district, the CM declared that the state government will introduce legislation to provide 25% reservation for women in recruitment to Class-III posts within government departments.
Enhanced Recruitment and Educational Opportunities
The announcement includes a special recruitment drive for women sub-inspectors in the police department, reinforcing the government's commitment to strengthening women's participation in law enforcement and public services. Sukhu emphasized that women's welfare remains the top priority of the present administration, with every government initiative centered around their advancement.
In the educational sphere, the CM announced a substantial allocation of Rs 500 crore for the development of Nahan Medical College. This funding will be utilized to upgrade the institution with improved infrastructure and enhanced medical facilities. Additionally, new academic courses—MSc in Zoology, MBA, and MA in History—will be introduced at PG College Nahan starting from the next academic session.
Financial and Social Welfare Enhancements
Several financial benefits have been increased to support women's economic independence and social security. The Mahila Samman Rashi has been doubled from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, providing greater financial assistance to women. The government is also considering the introduction of a monthly pension of Rs 1,500 for women in the state from next year, pending final approval.
To promote social reforms, the incentive for widow remarriage has been significantly raised from Rs 65,000 to Rs 2 lakh, encouraging social inclusion and support. Furthermore, the legal marriage age for women has been increased from 18 to 21 years, aligning with broader national efforts to enhance women's rights and opportunities.
Property Rights and Disaster Relief
In a move to ensure gender parity in inheritance, the government has guaranteed equal rights for daughters in ancestral property up to 150 bighas. This policy aims to dismantle traditional barriers and promote economic equity.
Addressing the aftermath of the 2023 natural disaster, Sukhu highlighted that the state government revised relief rules and substantially increased compensation for affected families. Despite administrative advice, the government decided to provide Rs 7 lakh for house reconstruction, demonstrating a compassionate approach to crisis management. During this period, the entire administrative machinery was actively engaged in relief operations.
Political Context and Administrative Leadership
The CM referenced political dynamics, noting that the opposition had repeatedly demanded a special assembly session during the disaster. He alleged that BJP legislators walked out of the assembly when a special relief package for affected families was proposed, highlighting tensions in governance.
Sukhu also addressed a recent controversy involving Delhi Police, stating that they cannot detain anyone from Himachal Pradesh without following proper procedures. He recounted an incident where an FIR was registered after Delhi Police took action without informing state authorities, but cooperation was extended when they returned with proper information.
Highlighting the state's progress in women's leadership, Sukhu pointed out that the entire administrative leadership of Lahaul-Spiti district is currently managed by women, with deputy commissioners in Sirmaur and Hamirpur districts also being women officers. This reflects a broader commitment to gender inclusivity in governance.
Under the Mukhyamantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana, the state government is bearing the cost of higher education for the children of widowed women, further supporting vulnerable families. Additionally, 30% reservation has been provided to women in police recruitment, complementing the new Class-III quota and showcasing a holistic approach to women's empowerment in Himachal Pradesh.
