Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over the grand 54th Statehood Day celebration in Dharampur, Mandi district, marking the occasion with significant announcements and reflections on the state's progress.
The Chief Minister extended Statehood Day wishes, highlighted the instrumental role played by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Y.S. Parmar, in achieving statehood status.
During the event, Chief Minister Sukhu unveiled the National Flag, receiving salutes from various groups, including police, home guards, NCC and NSS cadets, Scouts and Guides, Ex-servicemen, and the Police band, in an impressive march past led by Parade Commander IPS (Probationer) Gauravjeet Singh.
In a series of announcements, Chief Minister Sukhu revealed developmental projects, including Rs. 20,000 each for 200 Mahila Mandals in the Dharampur area, the establishment of a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) office in Dharampur, and the formation of Nagar Panchayats in Dharampur and Sandhole.
Financial allocations were also designated for road development, temple beautification, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and sports infrastructure.
A significant focus of the Chief Minister's address was the state's commitment to environmental sustainability.
He emphasized the government's efforts to establish six green corridors by the end of March, providing convenient e-charging stations for both tourists and locals.
The promotion of electric vehicles was highlighted, with a ban on the purchase of petrol and diesel vehicles in government departments effective from January 1, 2024.
Himachal Pradesh achieved a milestone by becoming the first state in India to enact a law for orphan children.
The introduction of the Rs 680 crore 'Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme' was unveiled, offering subsidies for e-taxi purchases and provisions for solar energy projects, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering youth entrepreneurship.
The Chief Minister shared updates on various government initiatives, including the 'Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar' program aimed at resolving public grievances, achievements in resolving land disputes through 'Revenue Lok Adalats,' and the implementation of English medium education in government schools from the first class.
He highlighted the state's commitment to women empowerment, with increased financial assistance for widows and single women.
In the realm of revenue enhancement, Chief Minister Sukhu discussed measures such as reducing the lease period of government land, introducing a new excise policy resulting in additional revenue, and expediting Public Works Department projects.
The state government's emphasis on agricultural support was evident through the Rs. 500 crore 'Him Ganga' scheme, supporting farmers and facilitating milk transportation.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of boosting farmers' income and outlined a substantial investment under the HP SHIVA project for planting fruit saplings across thousands of hectares.
In closing, Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, with plans for heliports in various districts, showcasing the state's natural beauty and attracting more visitors.
The celebration also featured cultural events, the honoring of new voters, and contributions towards Aapda Rahat Kosh-2023 from Dharmapur Congress and DAV School Greyoh District Mandi. The event witnessed the presence of various dignitaries, including the Chief Minister's wife, Kamlesh Thakur, Sports and Youth Services Minister Yadvinder Goma, MLAs, political advisors, and other notable figures.
