CM urges not to impose other State's norms on hilly state like Himachal

 A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 was signed between the Government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh in New Delhi today. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri joined the event virtually from Shimla, while Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil also attended the event virtually.

On behalf of the State, Secretary Jal Shakti Vibhag Dr. Abhishek Jain was present, while Joint Secretary Swati Nayak signed the MoU on behalf of the Government of India. JJM 2.0 will be implemented up to December 2028 with an enhanced outlay and restructured framework, focusing on structural reforms in the rural drinking water supply sector. At present, priority is being given to all single village schemes (SVS), including those for which States and Union Territories have already incurred advance expenditure.

On the occasion, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the geographical conditions of Himachal Pradesh were challenging and should not be compared with other states, as the cost of construction in hilly areas was significantly higher. He emphasized that norms applicable to other states should not be imposed on Himachal Pradesh. He added that the state government was actively promoting the management and distribution of water supply schemes through Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Sh. Sukhu also urged the Union Government to release the pending amount of Rs. 1,227 crore under JJM, stating that work on several schemes has already been completed but payments are yet to be released. He said that the state government is committed to providing clean drinking water to every household and is working towards adopting advanced and modern technologies for water purification.

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CM invites investment in Tourism, Food Processing and IT Sectors

• Harassment of industrialists will not be tolerated: Chief Minister 
• Presides over CII’s Annual conference

While presiding over the CII Himachal Pradesh Annual Conference themed “Building a Future-Ready Himachal Pradesh for a Better Tomorrow: Harnessing Local Strengths for Global Competitiveness” in Shimla late evening on Thursday, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu invited industry leaders to invest in the tourism, food processing and Information Technology sectors. He said that the present State Government is actively promoting green industries, keeping in view the State’s unique geographical and environmental conditions. He further said that the Government would provide all possible support and necessary facilities to industries, and that investment in the tourism and hospitality sectors is being actively encouraged. The government also plans to invest Rs. 3,000 crore in tourism in the coming times, he added.

He said that heliports are being constructed at district headquarters and prominent tourist places of the State and added that heli-taxi services have already been introduced, with plans underway to expand this facility. Additionally, the expansion of the Kangra airport is in progress.

The Chief Minister assured that any form of harassment of industrialists would not be tolerated and their grievances could be brought directly to his notice. He further stated that a Bulk Drug Park is being developed at Haroli in Una district, where incentives are being offered to investors. Emphasizing improvements in the single-window system, he said that all clearances for industries should be provided at one place and the Industries Department should actively facilitate investors.

Sh. Sukhu said that most industries in the state are located along the borders with neighbouring States and added that the Government is focusing on developing better infrastructure in these areas. He said that underground utility ducts, on the lines of Shimla, would be developed in Baddi, and efforts are being made to address power load issues in industrial areas. He further said that the State Government is bearing 50 percent of the cost, along with land acquisition expenses, to extend railway connectivity to Baddi, which would benefit industries associated with BBMB.

He remarked that Himachal Pradesh serves as the “lungs of North India” as well as a “water bowl,” but it has been deprived of its rightful share. He said that financial assistance under Article 275(1) of the Constitution, earlier provided to the State in the form of Revenue Deficit Grants (RDG), has been discontinued and the present Government is fighting to restore it.

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said that Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the first Chief Minister of the State, who has been laying special emphasis on resource mobilization. He added that the people of Himachal Pradesh have continuously faced natural disasters. In 2024, the State also witnessed a political crisis, but the government confronted these challenges with resilience. He said that the State Government extended assistance to disaster-affected people from its own resources. However, despite the Prime Minister’s announcement, disaster-affected families in Himachal Pradesh are still awaiting financial assistance of Rs. 1,500 crore from the Centre, he added.

Sh. Chauhan further said that Himachal Pradesh offers a conducive environment for industries, with no shortage of power and a strong law and order system. “We are focusing on building from within and that begins with a simple but powerful message: buy local. When we choose locally made products, we are not just supporting our businesses, we are strengthening our economy, sustaining livelihoods, and laying the foundation for a self-reliant Himachal Pradesh,” he added.

Director Industries Dr. Yunus, CII Northern Region Chairperson Anjali Singh, Deepan Garg, Puneet Kaura, Sanjay Suri from CII and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

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Vice Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University Prof. Mahavir Singh and Vice Chancellor of Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel called on Governor Kavinder Gupta at Lok Bhawan here today.

During the courtesy call, both the Vice Chancellors apprised the Governor about various academic, research and developmental activities being undertaken in their respective universities. They also briefed him on ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening higher education and promoting innovation and skill-based learning among students.

The Governor held a detailed discussion on improving the quality of education in higher educational institutions and emphasized the need to align academic programmes with emerging global standards. He underlined the importance of holistic development of youth, including value-based education, skill enhancement and research-oriented learning.

Sh. Gupta stressed that universities play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation and should focus on nurturing responsible, skilled and socially aware citizens. He also encouraged adopting innovative practices and contributing towards the overall development of the State.

In a separate meeting, Special Envoy to the UAE and India Ms. Kanika Chaudhary, called on the Governor here today.

During the meeting, Ms. Chaudhary discussed various areas of mutual interest, including opportunities for strengthening cooperation between India and the United Arab Emirates in sectors such as trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchange. She also shared her perspectives on enhancing bilateral engagement and fostering people-to-people connections.

The Governor appreciated the growing relations between India and the UAE and emphasized the importance of exploring new avenues of collaboration that could contribute to economic growth and development. He highlighted the potential of Himachal Pradesh in sectors such as tourism, horticulture and education and stressed the need to attract investment and promote international partnerships.

Shri Gupta also underscored the significance of strengthening global ties and encouraged initiatives that facilitate knowledge exchange, innovation and sustainable development. He expressed hope that such interactions would further enhance cooperation and open new opportunities for the State.

Vice Chancellor, Central University, Dharamshala Prof. S.P. Bansal was also present on the occasion.

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Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta and Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari paid separate courtesy visits to the Governor Kavinder Gupta at Lok Bhavan, today.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary apprised the Governor of the present administrative scenario in the State, including the progress of key developmental projects and the implementation of various flagship schemes. He also briefed about ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, enhance service delivery and address public grievances effectively.

The DGP briefed the Governor on the prevailing law and order situation, along with measures being undertaken to strengthen policing, enhance public safety and ensure effective crime prevention. He also highlighted initiatives aimed at modernizing the police force and improving coordination among various security agencies.

The Governor emphasized the importance of maintaining efficiency, transparency and accountability in administration. He also stressed the need for proactive policing, vigilance and people-friendly approaches. He underscored that effective governance and a robust security framework were essential to ensure overall welfare, peace and development in the state.

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• Three MoUs signed between Milkfed and NDDB

The Government of Himachal Pradesh and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) today signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

On behalf of the state government, Secretary Animal Husbandry Ritesh Chauhan and Managing Director of the Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation (Milkfed) Abhishek Verma signed the agreements, while Chairman of NDDB Dr. Meenesh Shah signed on behalf of the Board.

The first MoU relates to the formation and operation of the Kangra Milk Union. The second agreement concerns the establishment of two milk processing plants with a capacity of 20,000 liters per day each at Nahan in Sirmaur district and Nalagarh in Solan district, along with two milk chilling centres of 20,000 liters per day capacity at Jalari in Hamirpur district and Jhalera in Una district. The third MoU relates to the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software in Milkfed.

A fully automated and modern milk processing plant with a capacity of 1.5 lakh litres per day is being established at Dhagwar in Kangra district at a cost of Rs. 250 crore. Its capacity can later be expanded to three lakh litres per day. Under the agreement, the new Milk Union will include Kangra, Una, Hamirpur and Chamba districts, which will strengthen the milk collection, processing and marketing system.

To modernize and bring transparency to the dairy sector, ERP software is being introduced. This will enable digital management of all processes related to milk collection, quality testing, production, storage and distribution. It will help maintain organised records of milk-producing farmers and ensure timely and transparent payments to them. In addition, production management, stock control and supply chain monitoring will become more efficient, thereby improving the overall functioning of the dairy sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the state government has been taking steps to strengthen the rural economy since the first day after forming the government in state. He said the dairy sector has been given priority by the government and these efforts will continue in the future. Through systemic reforms, the government is working to ensure that money reaches farmers directly.

He said that once the Dhagwar milk processing plant becomes operational in Kangra district, quality dairy products under the ‘Him’ brand will be introduced in the market. He added that when the quality of products improves, the rural economy will become stronger and farmers will receive better returns for their hard work. He said there is no derth of funds with the state government to strengthen the dairy sector and that around Rs. 300 crore will be spent in the coming time to set up more processing units in other parts of the state.

The Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh has become the first state offering the highest support price for milk procurement in the country. He said the government has made a historic increase in procurement prices for cow and buffalo milk. The support price for cow milk has been increased from Rs. 32 to Rs. 51 per litre and for buffalo milk from Rs. 47 to Rs. 61 per litre.

Under the Dugdh Protsahan Yojana, farmers who transport milk themselves to the milk procurement centre are given a direct incentive of Rs. three per litre. The transport subsidy on milk has also been increased by Rs. 1.50 per litre. He said the objective of the government is not only to increase the price of milk but also to provide self-employment opportunities to youth in villages so that the rural economy can improve.

He said that under the Gopal Yojana, proper care of stray cattle is being ensured. The financial assistance for the upkeep of cows in gaushalas and cow sanctuaries has been increased from Rs. 700 to Rs. 1,200 per month.

Agriculture Minister Prof. Chander Kumar said that there is a need to promote the ‘Him’ brand and said that the state’s dairy products should reach markets on the lines of brands like Amul and Verka so that the  economy of the state can grow further. He said the Dhagwar milk processing plant is expected to start operations by October this year, which will benefit farmers in Kangra, Una, Hamirpur and Chamba districts.

He said that farmers need to improve the health of their animals and that the state government will encourage them to purchase high-yielding dairy animals. He said that the government is also promoting indigenous cows because dairy and agriculture remain priority sectors for the state government. He further said that the government has imposed a cess on liquor and a major portion of the revenue generated from it is being allocated to the dairy sector, which is already showing positive results.

Chairman Milkfed Buddhi Singh Thakur, Principal Adviser (Media) to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Registrar Cooperative Societies D.C. Negi and other senior officials were present on the occasion.

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Lays foundation stone for Mandi Judicial Court Complex costing Rs. 152 Crore

Govt working towards ensuring inclusive development and social justice: CM

Chief Justice of India Justice Sh. Surya Kant today laid the foundation stone of the Mandi Judicial Court Complex, to be constructed at a cost of Rs.152 crore in the presence of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The state-of-the-art court complex would be built on 9.6 hectares of land and would have four blocks, providing better facilities for judges, lawyers and the public.

On the occasion while addressing a legal literacy camp, Justice Sh. Surya Kant said that judicial complexes need to function like hospitals. He said people go to hospitals with hope and the judicial system should also work with the same spirit of service. People come to courts with the expectation of relief and justice. He said that with increasing facilities, the responsibility of the judicial system was also increasing.

He said that Mandi is also known as Chhoti Kashi, where millions of people visit with great devotion. He said that today the foundation of a temple of justice is being laid at this place, which will soon be completed.

He said that today’s gathering was very important, everyone talks about fundamental rights, but fundamental duties are also an integral part of the Constitution and should be followed. He said that Himachal Pradesh has preserved its natural beauty, therefore it is necessary to make people aware of their fundamental rights. He said similar programmes should be organised even at the grassroots level so that awareness about fundamental duties can increase.

Justice Sh. Surya Kant said that the love and respect of the people has brought him to Himachal Pradesh again and he feels honoured by their affection.

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu welcomed Justice Sh. Surya Kant to Himachal Pradesh and invited him to visit the state again. In his address, he said that ensuring access to justice and rights for every citizen of the state is the commitment of the government. He said the government is working towards inclusive development and social justice in accordance with the spirit of the Constitution.

He said that through education, healthcare, social security and transparent administration, the government is ensuring that every citizen gets equal opportunities and that the roots of democracy become stronger. He said that the government has adopted about 6,000 orphaned children as “Children of the State”, for which the first law of its kind in the country has been enacted. He said that the legal age of marriage for girls has been increased to 21 years so that they can have rights and opportunities equal to boys. Giving equal rights to daughters, the government has provided them equal rights in ancestral property up to 150 bighas, which earlier was limited only to sons.

 To ensure the education of the children of widowed women, the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana has been started, under which the state government is bearing the cost of their education. He said that by organizing revenue Lok Adalats, the government has resolved about 5.5 lakh pending cases which had been pending for several years.

Sh. Sukhu said that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a symbol of the nation’s core ideals, values and aspirations. He said that the contribution of B. R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution, will always be remembered, as he led the drafting of the Constitution and ensured that India’s democracy is based on the principles of equality, justice and liberty. He said that along with fundamental rights, fundamental duties are equally important. If we wish to enjoy our rights, we must perform our duties with sincerity.

He said that the Revenue Deficit Grant that Himachal Pradesh received as its constitutional right has now been discontinued, which is a major challenge for the financial condition of the state. This grant was being given to Himachal Pradesh under Article 275(1) of the Constitution, and under the arrangement that began in 1952 the state had been receiving this grant continuously for the past 73 years.

Chief Justice of HP High Court Justice Sh. Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia said that today’s discussion is the result of collective efforts to ensure that justice reaches every individual. He said that justice is not limited only to courtrooms but also includes awareness of rights, access to legal aid and providing timely assistance.

High Court Judge Sh. Vivek Thakur said that after the country’s independence more emphasis was placed on fundamental rights. He said that if we perform our fundamental duties, the protection of fundamental rights automatically follows.

High Court Judge Sh. Ajay Mohan Goel welcomed the Chief Justice of India, the Chief Minister and all dignitaries present at the programme. He said that the long-standing demand for a new judicial complex in Mandi has now been fulfilled and it will become one of the best complexes in the country.

High Court Judge Sh. Sandeep Sharma presented the vote of thanks.

On this occasion, judges of the Himachal Pradesh High Court including Smt. Jyotsna Rewal Dua, Sh. Sushil Kukreja, Sh. Virender Singh, Sh. Ranjan Sharma, Sh.  Bipin Chander Negi, Sh. Rakesh Kainthla, Sh. Jia Lal Bhardwaj and Sh. Romesh Verma were present.

Chief Minister’s political advisor Sh. Sunil Sharma, Advocate General Sh. Anup Rattan, former CPS Sh. Sohan Singh Thakur, District Congress President Smt. Champa Thakur, Chairman of the SC/ST Development Corporation Sh. Lal Singh Kaushal, Vice-Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Water Management Board Sh. Shashi Sharma, Congress leader Sh. Jagdish Reddy, Secretary to the Chief Minister Sh. Ashish Singhmar, DC Sh. Apoorv Devgan, SP Sh. Vinod Kumar, along with judicial officers and office bearers and members of the Mandi District Bar Association and  other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

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