Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Announces Major Relief and Development Initiatives on Statehood Day
During the 79th Himachal Day celebrations held in Reckong Peo, Kinnaur district, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unveiled a series of significant announcements aimed at providing relief to government employees and boosting regional development. The state-level function featured the unfurling of the national flag and a ceremonial march past, setting the stage for these crucial policy declarations.
Salary Deferment Withdrawn for Senior Officers
In a move that brings immediate financial relief, Chief Minister Sukhu declared that the state government has decided to withdraw its earlier decision to defer salaries for Class I and Class II government officers. This reversal addresses concerns among senior administrative personnel, ensuring their full remuneration is restored without delay.
However, the temporary salary deferments for top officials will continue as planned. The 30% and 20% reductions in salaries for the Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, chief secretary, DGP, and other senior officers remain in effect for six months, as outlined in last month's budget speech. This measure reflects the government's commitment to fiscal discipline during challenging economic times.
Financial Support for Kinnaur Women and Retired Employees
A key social welfare announcement came in the form of a new monthly allowance for women in Kinnaur district. Under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi scheme, women aged 21 years or older with an annual income below Rs 2 lakh will receive Rs 1,500 per month, with payments commencing this month. This initiative aims to empower economically disadvantaged women in the remote district.
Additionally, the Chief Minister addressed long-pending dues for retired Class IV employees. The government will clear all pending gratuity and leave encashment for those who retired between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2021, by May 2024. This resolution involves an expenditure of approximately Rs 50 crore, providing much-needed financial closure for thousands of former government workers.
Infrastructure and Educational Upgrades Across Kinnaur
The celebrations also served as a platform to announce multiple development projects focused on enhancing infrastructure and education in Kinnaur district:
- Geothermal Heating System: All government institutions, schools, and households in Reckong Peo will be connected to a geothermal-powered central heating system, leveraging natural resources for sustainable energy solutions.
- Traffic Tunnel Construction: An allocation of Rs 8 crore has been approved for building a traffic tunnel to connect Taranda village, improving accessibility and safety for local residents.
- Educational Enhancements: Choltu High School will be upgraded to a senior secondary school under the CBSE curriculum, while the polytechnic college currently operating from Rohru will be relocated to Urni in Kinnaur. The under-construction Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School in Reckong Peo is slated for completion within six months.
Transport and Connectivity Improvements
Significant progress in transportation infrastructure was highlighted, including the recent completion of the 4-kilometer Nigulsari-Bhavanagar road built at a cost of Rs 12 crore. This vital link benefits residents of both Kinnaur and Spiti districts, facilitating smoother travel and economic exchange.
New heli-taxi services between Reckong Peo and Shimla have been launched, with Chief Minister Sukhu crediting Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi for his efforts in establishing this aerial connectivity. The initiative is expected to reduce travel time and enhance accessibility to the state capital.
Energy and Border Development Initiatives
On the energy front, work has commenced on the 125-kilometer 66-kV Pooh-Kaza transmission line, with a project cost of Rs 415 crore. This infrastructure will provide reliable electricity to approximately 17,500 residents of Kinnaur and Spiti Valley, with survey work for the 45-kilometer Sumdo-Kaza stretch already completed.
Border development received special attention, with Chief Minister Sukhu announcing the resumption of trade with China through the Shipki La pass starting June 1. The state government is also actively pursuing the restart of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through this route with the central government. Efforts to promote border tourism are already showing positive results, contributing to improved livelihoods for local communities.
Recognition for Police Personnel
In a gesture honoring dedicated service, the Chief Minister announced that eligible non-gazetted police officers will receive one honorary higher rank on their retirement day. This recognition aims to boost morale and acknowledge the contributions of law enforcement personnel across the state.
The 79th Himachal Day celebrations thus served as a comprehensive platform for announcing welfare measures, infrastructure projects, and policy initiatives designed to address immediate concerns while laying the groundwork for long-term development in Himachal Pradesh.
