Himachal CM Announces New Day-Boarding School in Chhatar, Mandi
In a significant move to bolster educational infrastructure in the region, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Friday that the state government will establish a Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding School in Chhatar. The announcement was made during a large public gathering in Diyargi, located within the Nachan assembly constituency of Mandi district.
Financial Challenges and Criticism of Previous BJP Government
Addressing the crowd, CM Sukhu delved into the state's financial situation, highlighting that the 16th Finance Commission has discontinued the revenue deficit grant (RDG), which amounted to approximately Rs 10,000 crore annually. He pointed out that during the five-year tenure of the previous BJP government, Himachal Pradesh received Rs 54,000 crore as RDG and an additional Rs 16,000 crore as GST compensation.
Had financial discipline been maintained during that period, Sukhu asserted, the state's debt could have been reduced by nearly Rs 30,000 crore. He further criticized the BJP administration for constructing buildings worth about Rs 1,000 crore across the state that are now lying vacant, labeling it as wasteful expenditure.
Current Government's Efforts and Commitment to Employees
Despite facing financial strain, the CM noted that the present Congress government received Rs 17,000 crore in RDG, which will also cease from the next financial year. He emphasized that despite these challenges, the government has managed to clear the pending 14% Dearness Allowance and released arrears for citizens above 70 years of age.
Sukhu reiterated that the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) will never be discontinued in Himachal Pradesh. The Congress government restored OPS in its very first cabinet meeting, and he clarified that this decision was not taken for political reasons. As the son of a government employee, he expressed understanding of employees' concerns and assured that the government would continue to safeguard their interests, ensuring payment of arrears while addressing all financial hurdles.
Political Accusations and Disaster Relief Measures
Criticizing the BJP, CM Sukhu described the party as anti-Himachal. He recounted that during natural disasters in the state, BJP leaders repeatedly demanded a special assembly session while the Congress government was actively engaged in providing relief to affected families. However, when a proposal was brought forward in the assembly to seek a special relief package from the central government for Himachal Pradesh, BJP legislators walked out while raising slogans.
The government has amended rules to provide better assistance to disaster-affected families, understanding the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. In 2023, families whose houses were completely destroyed received Rs 7 lakh in assistance, which has now been increased to Rs 8 lakh this year.
Unified Efforts and Anti-Drug Stance
Sukhu mentioned that the state government convened an all-party meeting on the issue of RDG, but the BJP failed to stand united for the rights of Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that if the state receives its rightful financial share, it will not have to seek support from others.
On the issue of drug trafficking, the CM issued a stern warning: no person involved in the chitta (drug) trade will be spared. Employees found involved will be dismissed, and the properties of chitta traffickers will be destroyed, reflecting the government's zero-tolerance policy.
Support for Grassroots Organizations and Community Demands
As part of the government's support to grassroots organizations, CM Sukhu announced financial assistance of Rs 51,000 each for all the women's groups present at the event. He also assured that all demands raised by Himachal Pradesh SC-ST Commission chairperson Lal Singh Kaushal and Congress leader Naresh Chauhan would be fulfilled, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive governance and community welfare.
