Himachal Pradesh Government

Armed Forces Flag Day Observed at Raj Bhavan

Armed Forces Flag Day was observed at Raj Bhavan today. Director Sainik Welfare Department Brigadier Madan Sheel Sharma and Deputy Director Sainik Welfare Shimla and Kinnaur districts Lieutenant Commander Atul Chambial pinned the Armed Forces Flag on the Governor. On the occasion, the Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla conveyed his greetings on Flag Day and made a contribution towards Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.

Armed Forces Flag Day is being observed throughout the country on December 7, 2025. In view of the hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh, the campaign will be conducted from December 1 to 31, 2025, enabling its observance even in the remote areas of the State.

The Governor said that the brave soldiers of Himachal Pradesh are the pride of the Armed Forces, making it all the more important for everyone to contribute generously to this noble cause. The Governor appealed to the people of the State to make liberal donations for the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families. The funds collected will be utilized to provide assistance and relief to the dependents of those who have sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty and integrity of the motherland.

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Governor Inaugurates State-Level Workshop on ‘Chitte Par Chot’

Calls for Collective Commitment Against Drug Abuse

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today inaugurated a state-level workshop on the theme ‘War on Drugs-Chitte Par Chot’, organised by the group of NGOs ‘Sanjeevani’, and called for coordinated and determined efforts to combat drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the fight against drugs demands both strict action by police and a sensitive approach towards affected individuals. He emphasized that along with non-governmental organizations, participation from religious institutions is crucial to break the drug network being driven by foreign agencies.

Shri Shukla appreciated the efforts of the State Government in tackling the drug menace and particularly lauded the manner in which both the ruling and opposition parties united on this issue in the State Assembly. “Without collective political resolve, it would not be possible to save the Devbhoomi from this crisis,” he said.

Commending the initiative, the Governor said that ‘Chitte Par Chot’ is not merely a campaign but a pledge. He expressed satisfaction that Sanjeevani is working not only to spread anti-drug messages, but also to promote policy reforms, capacity building, research, awareness drives and community-based interventions. He added that the organization is providing a platform for various NGOs to work collaboratively with the government to strengthen policies on drug prevention, counseling, rehabilitation, training and grassroots outreach.

“Organised efforts, planned strategies and community participation are essential if Chitte Par Chot is to truly succeed,” Shri Shukla remarked. He stressed that meaningful change is possible only when society, media, religious bodies, sports organizations, volunteer groups and youth clubs raise a collective voice.

The Governor said that saving Himachal from drugs requires every individual to remain vigilant and sensitive. Youth falling into addiction is not just the defeat of a person, but of the entire society. He noted that Himachal Pradesh, known for its peace, culture and natural beauty, is currently facing a significant challenge due to synthetic drugs such as ‘chitta’. He added that although the challenge is serious, it is not insurmountable. “If government agencies, police, administration, panchayats, schools, colleges and social organizations come together, Himachal can become drug-free,” he said, adding that his drug-free campaign, launched in the State with inspiration from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, received support from all sections of society.

Highlighting the role of families, the Governor said that the fight against drugs begins at home. Parents must pay attention to the behaviour, companions and day-to-day habits of their children. He stressed the importance of regular awareness campaigns in schools and colleges. While calling for strict action against drug traffickers and supply networks, he also underlined that drug victims should be treated as patients, not criminals, and that hospitals, psychological support and rehabilitation centres must play an important role.

Earlier, President of Sanjeevani Group of NGOs, Mahendra Dharamani welcomed the Governor and said that his guidance inspires NGOs to work with greater resolve in the fight against drugs. He informed that Sanjeevani, formed on 25 September 2025, has brought together 17 NGOs that are working in coordination across seven districts. Through Chitte Par Chot, participating organizations will facilitate dialogue on drug-related issues, take expert suggestions to the village level and ensure wider social participation. He said that this initiative marks the first such coordinated civil society effort in the State.

Secretary of Sanjeevani Group of NGOs, Naresh Sharma presented a vote of thanks.

Advisor Sanjeevani Joginder Kanwar, Vice Presidents of Sanjeevani Nitin Vyas and Dr. Joginder Saklani, DIG Police Digvijay Negi, Senior Advocate Piyush Verma, O.P. Sharma and Dr. Nidhi Sharma were also present as experts along with other prominent people.

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Chief Minister appeals to contribute towards Armed Welfare Fund

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was pinned up the flag on the occasion of Armed Forces Flag Day here today by Director Sainik Welfare Department Brigadier Madan Sheel Sharma.

The Chief Minister also contributed towards the Armed Welfare Fund.

Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu appealed to all citizens to contribute generously towards this fund and serve the noble cause of welfare of soldiers, the ex-servicemen and their families.

Lt. Commander Atul Chambial Deputy Director Sainik Welfare Shimla and Kinnaur districts was also present on the occasion.
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CM Presides over 'Stimulus' at IGMC


  Stipend Hike for Resident Doctors in Next Budget

Announces rupees five crore each for Bone Marrow facility in five medical colleges of the State

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today presided over the annual function 'Stimulus'-2025-26 organised by the Central Student's Union of Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla.

Extending congratulations to the students and the organizers for organizing a vibrant show, the Chief Minister said that IGMC students have consistently excelled in every field. He added that the students of this prestigious medical college have brought laurels to the State at National and International levels.

While addressing, the Chief Minister announced introduction of an 'Incentive Policy' for doctors, to be based on various parameters. He also announced that in the upcoming Budget, the monthly stipend for PG resident doctors would be enhanced to Rs.50,000 in the first year, Rs.60,000 in the second year and Rs.65,000 in the third year.

The Chief Minister announced rupees five crore for laparoscopic facilities and rupees six crore for the Department of Anaesthesia at IGMC. He directed the authorities concerned to expedite the land transfer process required for the construction of a new student hostel at IGMC and also instructed the Principal of IGMC to complete the process of shifting the Gynaecology wing from Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) to IGMC at the earliest.

He said that the State Government aims to bring world-class diagnostic services to Himachal Pradesh so that patients receive best and timely treatment. He further announced plans to equip five medical colleges in the State with world-class medical technology.

The Chief Minister also announced a sum of rupees five crore each for Bone Marrow infrastructure development in IGMC, AIMSS Chamiyana, Tanda medical College,  Lal Bahadur Shastri Govt. Medical College & Hospital Mandi at Ner Chowk and in Dr. Radhakrishnan Govt. Medical College, Hamirpur.

Sh. Sukhu also announced rupees five lakh for the Central Student's Union for organizing the cultural programme.

The Chief Minister said that Rs.75 crore has been approved for setting up smart labs at IGMC, Tanda Medical College and the Super Specialty hospital at Chamiyana. The State Government is making dedicated efforts to provide quality, accessible and modern healthcare services.

For the first time in the history of Himachal Pradesh, the State has introduced robotic surgery facilities. Recently, robotic machines have been installed at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities in Chamiyana, Shimla, and at Tanda Medical College in Kangra, marking the beginning of a new era in the State’s healthcare sector.

He said the State Government has decided to invest more than Rs.3,000 crore for upgrading healthcare infrastructure and expanding modern health services. The Government has also decided to replace medical equipment that has been in use for over two decades with modern and advanced machinery comparable to the standards of AIIMS Delhi and PGI Chandigarh.

To strengthen medical education, the Government has increased the number of seats for providing training in B.Sc. Medical Laboratory, Radiology & Imaging, Anaesthesia & OT Technology from 10 to 50 at IGMC and from 18 to 50 at Tanda Medical College.

The Chief Minister said that the working hours of resident doctors have been rationalized. Earlier, they had to work in 36-hour shifts, which have now been limited to a maximum of 12 hours continuously. The stipend for senior residents has been increased from Rs.60,000 to Rs.1,00,000 per month, while in super-specialty departments, it has been enhanced from Rs.1,00,000 to Rs.1,30,000.

He said the State Government was committed to safeguard the interests of students and doctors and was making all possible efforts in this direction. During the last three years, the present Government has spent Rs.1207 crore on strengthening infrastructure and procuring modern equipment for medical education. PG courses have been started in the Medical Colleges at Chamba, Hamirpur and Nerchowk. Departments of Emergency Medicine have also been established in all medical colleges, ensuring continuous improvement in the quality of medical education.

He said that 57 Casualty Medical Officers have been appointed through direct recruitment, while 32 specialist posts have been created for emergency services in various colleges, an initiative undertaken for the first time in the country.

The Chief Minister said that the Super Specialty Hospital at Chamiyana has been made functional and the Trauma Centre and New OPD Block have been started at IGMC. The State Government is not only strengthening the health sector but is also working with a positive vision to make Himachal Pradesh a model State in this field. With a progressive mindset, efforts were being made to ensure that the State becomes self-reliant in the coming years.

He reiterated that the Government was determined to strengthen the education sector and provide world-class education to the youth of the State so as to prepare them for emerging global challenges and competition.

The Chief Minister also honoured students and doctors for their contribution in various fields.

The Students also presented an impressive cultural programme on the occasion.

Principal Dr. Sita Thakur apprised the Chief Minister of present facilities and requirements of the medical college. Dr. Puneet Mahajan,

Dr. Piyush Kapila, Professor, Forensic Medicine proposed votes of thanks.

Chief Advisor of the Central Student's Union, welcomed the Chief Minister and briefed him about the Union’s activities.

Mayor Shimla Municipal Corporation Surender Chauhan, Councilors, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi, Director Medical Education Dr. Rakesh Sharma, Senior Medical Superintendent Dr. Rahul Rao, the Principal and other dignitaries were also present amongst others.

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Chief Minister chairs 63rd Raising Day of Home Guards and Civil Defence

State to induct women in fire services

To commence recruitment of home guards soon

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today presided over the State-level function marking the 63rd Raising Day of Himachal Pradesh Home Guards and Civil Defence, held at Sarogheen, Shimla.

Extending his greetings to the personnel of Home Guards, Civil Defence, Fire Services and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Chief Minister said that these departments have made exceptional contributions to the safety, security and development of the State. He informed that Home Guards and Fire Services successfully carried out 708 search and rescue operations during the year, saving 448 lives. Their professional efficiency also helped protect property worth Rs.2,000 crore from damage. In addition, the department restored 1,035 water sources and water bodies, a commendable achievement, he added.

Sh. Sukhu said that the State Government is giving special priority to women empowerment as part of its broader vision of Vyavastha Parivartan. He announced that women would now be inducted into the Fire Services, and necessary amendments to recruitment rules would be made soon. Recruitment to the Home Guards would also commence shortly.

He stated that the Government is taking continuous steps to strengthen the Home Guards and Civil Defence Department. During the present tenure, four new fire stations have been established at Deha, Ubadesh, Nerwa and Indora. This year, 27 new fire tenders have been procured and 150 posts sanctioned to operate these units. The Government has allocated Rs.55 crore under the Fire Services Modernization Scheme, while advanced equipment worth Rs.6 crore has been provided to the SDRF to enhance its operational capacity. This includes drones for aerial surveys, search operations and monitoring disaster-prone areas, significantly boosting preparedness and response capabilities.

The Chief Minister also highlighted that the State Government has extended maternity leave benefits to women Home Guards, ensuring essential support and job security during maternity.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister launched the ‘Miracle of Mind’ mobile application, developed in collaboration with the Isha Foundation, aimed at strengthening efforts against drug abuse.

He also honoured various units and personnel of the department for their outstanding performance. The Home Guards and Civil Defence Department presented a ‘Safe Himachal’ demonstration featuring fire-fighting and search-and-rescue mock drills.

Earlier, Additional Director General Satwant Atwal Trivedi welcomed the Chief Minister and presented a detailed account of the department’s activities. She informed that Home Guards and Fire Services conducted nearly 11,000 mock drills and 3,000 awareness camps, training around two lakh citizens.

Deputy Commandant General Arvind Parashar proposed the vote of thanks.

Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Shyam Bhagat Negi, Additional Director General of Police Abhishek Trivedi, Special Secretary Sudesh Mokhta and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

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Governor pays floral tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on Mahaparinirvan Diwas

A tribute programme was organized at Raj Bhavan today on the occasion of the Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla offered floral tributes before the portrait of Dr. Ambedkar in the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that Dr. Ambedkar laid the strong foundation of social justice, equality and constitutional values, which will continue to guide the nation for generations to come. He said that it is our collective responsibility to imbibe his ideals and contribute towards building an inclusive, just and empowered India.

The Governor said that today, the Indian democracy based on the Constitution drafted by Dr. Ambedkar is regarded as the largest democracy in the world. He said that through various provisions and articles, the Constitution clearly defines the importance of both rights and duties for every citizen.

“We often remain conscious of our rights, but it is only by fulfilling our duties that our rights remain protected,” Shri Shukla said. “Therefore, we must first adhere to the duties enshrined in the Constitution.” He added that this day inspires us to follow the path shown by them.

Dev Ji Bhujjia and Rachna from the International Federation of Red Cross and John George from the International Committee of Red Cross, along with officers and employees of Raj Bhavan also paid floral tributes to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on the occasion.

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