Dharamshala/Shimla: Amid the voices of dissent, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the government has announced steps to benefit the disadvantaged and went on to announce that Himachal will become self- reliant in four years time by 2027 but blamed the Modi-led BJP government at New Delhi for not giving economic package to meet out the devastation worth Rs 13000 Crore wreaked by the July- August Natural Disaster.
Though the Congress led by Rajiv Shukla tried to put up the united front ahead of the crucial 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the voices of the dissent was pronounced as the son of late Virbhadra Singh, PWD minister Vikramaditya Singh and local Dharamshala MLA Sudhir Sharma were conspicuous by their absence from the stage.
Sukhu did not dish out the employment generated and given by the government in its first year in office, considering that the Congress in its guarantees had promised five lakh jobs in five years time during the election.
Commencing from January, women above 18 years in Lahaul-Spiti will receive a monthly stipend of ₹1500, fulfilling a promise made to all women in the region, Sukhu said while addressing the crowds gathered to celebrate one year of what CM has termed as 'Year of Vyavastha Privartan' in Dharamshala today. 
The commitment extends to widows receiving a pension of ₹1100, as they will see an increase to ₹1500 from the next fiscal year. Furthermore, the state government vows to bear the educational expenses of widows' children from the upcoming financial year, he announced.
In a bid to support farmers, the government plans to raise the purchase price of milk by ₹6 and initiate the Gobar Khareed Yojana (Dung Procurement Scheme) in January 2024.
Celebrating the completion of a year in office, the state government organized a grand event in Dharamshala, highlighting efforts made in governance reform. Emphasizing a vision for the next four years, the Chief Minister expressed determination to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant.
Addressing a massive public gathering during the "Vyavastha Parivartan ka Ek Saal", he emphasized the government's commitment to the welfare of all sections, highlighting achievements such as resolving the JOA (IT) recruitment process, introducing English medium in government institutions, and launching the e-taxi scheme under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme.
Sukhu expressed pride in the "government's efforts to bridge the gap between the common man and special interests", stating that the state is on track to become self-reliant by 2027 and is expected to increase its income by Rs 1100 crore raised from its own resources this year.
Despite challenges, the government has increased revenue and adopted measures like dissolving the Staff Selection Commission to curb corruption, he claimed.
During the celebration, he distributed benefits worth Rs. 13.58 crore to 581 families of Kangra affected by the disaster.
The Chief Minister also released publications highlighting the government's achievements, including a Coffee Table Book and an e-book.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri praised the government's achievements and criticized the BJP's opposition to people-friendly decisions.
Congress in-charge Rajeev Shukla commended the Chief Minister's dedication, while Congress President Pratibha Singh acknowledged the government's efforts during disasters.
It was another matter she had gone public expressing her anger against the government for not taking the party in confidence about the celebration.
The event showcased a glimpse of mini Himachal, with artists presenting the state's rich culture. Floral tributes at War Memorial Dharamshala and a road show added to the festive atmosphere, marking a year of governance focused on positive change and development.
However, amidst these announcements, questions arise about the transparency of the recruitment process, particularly regarding the filling of 5291 teaching positions (under codes 1028 and 1037) directly without involving the selection commission.
Allegations flagged on social media suggest favoritism towards those already in government services, prompting criticism and demands for accountability.
On a positive note, the Dhamtal Temple Trust contributed a generous ₹1 crore to the Disaster Relief Fund 2023 in Dharamshala today, acknowledging the noble cause.
WHAT OPPOSITION SAY:
BJP Slams Himachal Government's Year One: Calls it a Day of Betrayal
BJP's Dr. Rajeev Bindal launcheD scathing attack on Himachal Pradesh's Congress-led government, labeling their one-year tenure as a day of betrayal.
HE Accused Congress of rampant spending, illegal appointments, and burdening the poor with taxes.
He Highlighted the 200 crore rupees raid on a Congress MP's company, slamming Congress's silence on corruption allegations.
- Cited the closure of 1050 institutions, stalled road and bridge construction, and shutdown of key divisions, signaling a development standstill.
- Pointed to a 7 rupee hike in diesel prices, increased construction costs, and added burdens on the public.
- Criticized the government for taxing temple visits and hints at the potential sale of temple assets for revenue.
Bindal concluded by condemning the government's unfulfilled promises, including failure to provide financial aid to women and unemployment solutions.
He alleged internal strife within the Congress, attributing it to the delay in critical projects.
As the political battlefield intensifies in Himachal Pradesh, BJP's sharp critique sets the stage for heightened tensions between the ruling Congress and the opposition.
