Himachal Pradesh Government

Atal Tunnel gives Lahaul-Spiti a new identity in development and tourism: Governor

· Visits Sissu and Hidimba Temple

Governor Kavinder Gupta, visited the world-famous Atal Tunnel on Thursday during his tour of Lahaul-Spiti and Manali. He praised the tunnel’s technical excellence, strategic importance and contribution to regional development.

The Governor said that the Atal Tunnel, built by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), is a remarkable example of modern engineering and advanced technology, which has opened new opportunities for development and connectivity in the Himalayan region.

He travelled through the tunnel from the South Portal to the North Portal and received detailed information from BRO officials about its construction, safety systems and operations. Officials also briefed him on the arrangements made to ensure smooth traffic movement throughout the year.

The Governor said the project reflects the strong determination and visionary leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The tunnel is not merely an engineering structure, but also a symbol of India’s strategic strength, the development of border areas and improved public convenience.

He said that the construction of the tunnel has connected the district of Lahaul-Spiti with the rest of the state throughout the year, bringing major benefits to local residents in transport, healthcare, education and essential services. He said that tourism in the region has also grown significantly after the opening of the tunnel and has also strengthened local employment and the economy.

During the visit, the Governor also toured Sissu Lake and Sissu Waterfall. He praised the natural beauty of the Lahaul Valley and said that Sissu has now emerged as one of the major tourist attractions in the state. He said that the increased tourist footfall after the opening of the Atal Tunnel has greatly benefited tourism and local businesses in the area.

Sh. Gupta also visited the temple of Raja Ghepan Temple, the revered deity of Lahaul and prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the people of the state and the country. On his arrival in Lahaul-Spiti, Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana and other officials welcomed him at the North Portal.

Later, the Governor visited the famous Hidimba Devi Temple and offered prayers and sought blessings. He also interacted with devotees in the temple complex and appreciated the rich religious and cultural heritage of the state.

The Governor said that Himachal Pradesh is globally recognized as 'Devbhoomi' and that the deep faith and devotion of the people towards local deities form an integral part of the state’s culture. He said that thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the state every year to seek blessings which gives wider recognition to the spiritual and cultural traditions of the state.

He said that Himachal Pradesh’s religious heritage, natural beauty and cultural diversity are priceless treasures of the nation and must be preserved and promoted collectively.

Deputy Commissioner Kullu Anurag Chandra Sharma, Superintendent of Police Madan Lal and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.

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CM directs HPMC to start arrangements for apple procurement

· Stresses end-to-end digitization of procurement

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while reviewing the various schemes of the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) here last evening, directed the corporation to gear up for the procurement of apples for the upcoming season under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). He said that the state government was committed to ensuring the welfare of apple growers, especially small and marginal farmers and asked the HPMC to work towards maximizing benefits for them. He instructed the officers to make all necessary arrangements before procurement begins for the next season and to notify procurement centres well in advance for the convenience of apple growers across the state.

The Chief Minister said that the HPMC procured a record 98,540 metric tonnes of apples in 2025 under the MIS, the highest in the history of the State. He added that last year the HPMC was the sole agency responsible for apple procurement under the MIS scheme, whereas earlier HIMFED had also been involved in the procurement process. However, the State Government entrusted the responsibility solely to the HPMC from last year and the arrangement would continue in future as well.

He emphasized upon digitizing the functioning of the HPMC and said that from the next season, the entire procurement process and data should be digitized end-to-end to ensure transparency and hassle-free procurement for the horticulturists.

The Chief Minister said that the state government was committed to safeguarding the interests of apple growers and will leave no stone unturned in this regard. He added that the government has taken several steps for their welfare, including the introduction of a universal carton system to curb exploitation and ensure growers receive maximum returns for their hard work. He further said that the state government has also released the highest amount under the MIS to clear the outstanding payments of the apple growers.

Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Principal Secretary Devesh Kumar, Secretary Horticulture C. Paulrasu, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Special Secretary DC Rana, Director Digital Technology and Governance Dr. Nipun Jindal and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

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Governor presides over 2nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University

· Motivates graduates to be architects of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'

Governor Kavinder Gupta presides over the 2^nd Convocation of Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi today. He exhorted the graduating class to transcend individual careers and dedicate their knowledge, innovation and moral sensibility to the collective mission of building a strong, self-reliant India.

The Governor said that the ceremony in the historic town known as ‘Choti Kashi’ was much more than just giving out degrees. He described it as a celebration of knowledge, culture and responsibility.

Referring to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the ‘Iron Man of India’ and the inspiration behind the university’s name, the Governor reminded students that the idea of national unity and integrity is still very important today, just as it was at the time of Independence. He lauded the university for installing a statue of Patel on campus, calling it a symbol of respect and a sign of the institution’s national vision.

He encouraged students to stay committed to Patel’s dream of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, linking the university’s values with the need for unity and pride in the country today.

The Governor also praised SPU Mandi for its progress in a short time. He appreciated its step-by-step introduction of the National Education Policy, the creation of a Bharatiya Gyan Parampara cell, holding its first convocation in traditional Indian dress, and setting up academic committees. He described these as positive and meaningful steps.

He also commended the university’s academic and cultural programmes celebrating Mandi’s 500-year history. He said that this effort of the university showed a strong sense of respect for history and culture.

Speaking about the role of young people, the Governor said this is an important time in India’s development and the like initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India and Viksit Bharat-2047 requires an active participation from the youth besides career success.

He said that in today’s world, knowledge alone is not enough. Innovation, ethics and kindness are also very important. He said students must think and act as responsible citizens.

He urged them to use their education to help weaker sections of society, live drug-free lives, protect the environment and preserve India’s cultural heritage.

He also explained the difference between ‘Dikshaant’ (the start of a new journey) and ‘Shikshaaant’ (the end of education), saying that learning never truly ends and continues throughout life.

The Governor also congratulated all the medal winners, graduates, their families and teachers. He said that the support of parents and mentors plays a key role in every student’s success. He expressed confidence that SPU Mandi will grow into a leading centre of knowledge for both Himachal Pradesh and the whole country.

During the convocation ceremony, degrees were awarded to 575 students from various academic programmes, while 40 students were honoured with gold medals for their outstanding academic performance.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Lalit Kumar Awasthi highlighted the achievements and developmental journey of the university since its establishment in 2022. He said that the university secured research projects worth Rs. 2.30 crore, published more than 60 research papers and obtained approval for two patents. He said that 22 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) had been signed with various national and international institutions.

Registrar Shashi Pal Negi presented the vote of thanks.

MLA Chander Shekhar, Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan, Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar, Assistant Commissioner to Divisional Commissioner Mandi Sunaina Sharma, faculty members, students parents, university staff and other distinguished guests were present on the occasion.

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Governor addresses annual function at Himachal Dental College Sundernagar

· Modern technology opening new opportunities in field of dentistry: Governor

Governor Kavinder Gupta today presided over the annual day function of Himachal Dental College, Sundernagar. He said that to make India a developed, self-reliant and strong nation, young people must move forward with knowledge, skills and innovation. He said that the youth are the country’s greatest strength and if they actively take part in nation-building, India can become a self-reliant and powerful nation.

The Governor said that Himachal Dental College was a leading dental institution in the state and has an important contributions in education, research, community service and health awareness. He said that the institution is not only producing skilled doctors but also shaping responsible and compassionate citizens.

He said that dental health is a key part of overall health and it is the responsibility of young medical professionals to ensure quality healthcare reaches even the most remote sections of society. He encouraged students to aim for excellence in their profession while also practicing service, compassion and ethical values in their lives.

The Governor added that modern technology, digital innovation and artificial intelligence are creating new opportunities in the field of dentistry. He appreciated the institution’s efforts in organising free dental camps in rural and remote areas, anti-tobacco awareness campaigns and other community service programmes.

He said that the true identity of any educational institution lies not only in its academic achievements but also in its contribution to society. He expressed confidence that the college will continue to work towards providing healthcare services to the last person in society.

On this occasion, the Governor honoured students who performed excellently in academics and sports. Students who secured top positions at the university level in BDS and MDS courses were also awarded.

Among academic achievers, Adharika Gupta (1st) and Suhani Kashyap (3rd) from BDS first year were recognised. In BDS second year, Nishita Gupta secured college first and university third position. In third year, Akshita Joshi (2nd), Vasundhara (4th) and Akshat (5th) were honoured. In the final year, Prashant (1st), Jagisha (2nd) and Sara Puri (4th) received awards on the occasion.

In MDS first year, Dr. Nitya Sehgal (Orthodontics), Dr. Niyati (Pedodontics), Dr. Harnoor (Endodontics) and Dr. Ananya (Periodontics) secured first positions at the university level. In MDS final year, Dr. Bhumika (Periodontics) and Dr. Urvashi Solanki (Orthodontics) also secured first positions.

In sports, awards were given to Dr. Sushant Kaushal, Anjika Thakur, Vanshita, Akash Parmar, Devansh and badminton doubles winners Dr. Sahil Thakar and Anurag.

Students also presented cultural performances including Saraswati Vandana, Nati and Bhangra, which made the event lively and colourful.

The Governor also inaugurated a new modern dental van, which will play an important role in providing dental healthcare services in rural and remote areas.

Principal Dr. Baljeet Singh, presented the annual report and said that since 1993, the college has been organizing community outreach camps under the 'treatment at your doorstep' initiative. Last year, 46 camps were organised, where over 6,000 people were examined and more than 800 patients were treated using the mobile dental van.

He said that in 2025, the institution received the 'Community Service and Outreach' award from the Indian Dental Association. It was also honoured by the International College of Dentists for its community and humanitarian services.

Director Dr. Anil Singla welcomed the Governor and other guests, while Dr. Vikas Jindal thanked the staff and students for successfully organizing the event.

MLA Rakesh Jamwal, former Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sohan Lal Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Mandi Apoorv Devgan, Superintendent of Police Mandi Vinod Kumar, Chairperson Santosh Gupta and other officials were present on the occasion.

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Delegation of newly promoted principals call on Chief Minister

A delegation of the Himachal Pradesh Headmasters Cadre Officers Association today here called on Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and felicitated him. The members expressed gratitude for the recent promotion of 834 principals, including 539 headmasters and 295 lecturers, describing it as the largest single round of promotions in the Education Department.

They also appreciated the efforts of the state government in introducing the CBSE curriculum in 151 schools this year and thanked the Chief Minister for carrying out posting of teachers for these schools in a transparent manner by ensuring equal opportunities for all. They said that the response to these schools has been overwhelming, which is reflected in the increasing enrolment figures of students.

State President Dr. Rattan Singh, General Secretary Mulkh Raj Dhiman and Finance Secretary Bahadur Singh were also present on the occasion.

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RIMC Cadets call on Governor

· Patriotism, leadership and youth power key to nation building: Governor

Cadets of the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun called on Governor Kavinder Gupta at Lok Bhavan, Shimla today. The delegation was led by Naval Officer Sneha, accompanied by faculty members Aruna Sharma and Nitin Vaishnav of RIMC.

The Cadets interacted with the Governor, introduced themselves and shared their aspirations to join the National Defence Academy and serve in the armed forces, particularly the Indian Navy.

The Governor warmly received the cadets and lauded RIMC for its consistent and exemplary role in preparing youth for service in the armed forces. He acknowledged the institution’s contribution in shaping disciplined, focused and patriotic officers for the nation.

Sh. Gupta in his address highlighted the importance of discipline, integrity and strong character. He said that character must be built before rank is earned. He urged the cadets to strive for excellence in all endeavours, avoid mediocrity and view challenges as opportunities for growth. He stressed the importance of unity in diversity, he quoted the line ‘Alag Bhasha, Alag Bhesh, Phir Bhi Apna Ek Desh’, reminding them that India’s strength lies in its diversity and encouraged the cadets to take pride in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

He also advised the cadets to make the recitation of the Gayatri Mantra a part of their daily routine, noting its value in fostering mental clarity and inner strength. Speaking on leadership, the Governor said that a true leader leads from the front and that leadership is rooted in service and example rather than authority.

Highlighting the evolving demands of the modern world, the Governor encouraged the cadets to remain curious, intellectually sharp and committed to continuous learning. He reminded them that they are not just soldiers-in-training but future leaders of the nation, with a responsibility to uphold its values.

Kavinder Gupta said that the nation rests securely because of the dedication and readiness of its armed forces and urged the cadets to be worthy of that trust.

During their visit, the cadets also undertook a guided tour of Lok Bhavan. The historic building, dating back to the British era, offered them an insight into the state’s administrative heritage and the functioning of constitutional institutions.

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