Revenue, Horticulture, and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi announced that academic classes of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Thunag, will be temporarily relocated to Sundernagar due to extensive damage caused by the recent natural disaster in Mandi district.
Negi stated that student safety is the State Government’s top priority. Currently, around 300 students are enrolled in the college, many of whom — along with their parents — had met CM Sukhu to voice their concerns about continuing studies under unsafe conditions.
Following a detailed review, the Nauni-based Horticulture and Forestry University has been instructed to identify a suitable location in Sundernagar and resume academic activities at the earliest. The Minister assured students that adequate time would be provided to prepare for examinations, compensating for recent academic disruptions.
He highlighted that students had a narrow escape during the recent disaster and criticized the previous government for establishing the college without adequate infrastructure, leaving students to live in unsafe private accommodations. He confirmed that admissions for 100 new students are ongoing, and their classes will also be conducted in Sundernagar to avoid delays.
On the subject of disaster relief, Negi criticized the Central Government for its limited and delayed response. He said that after the 2023 disaster, a Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) of ₹10,000 crore was submitted, but only ₹2,006 crore was sanctioned, with 25% of the amount to be borne by the State. No financial support has yet been received for the 2025 monsoon damages, he added.
He urged BJP leaders, including Union Minister JP Nadda and the four BJP MPs from Himachal Pradesh, to advocate for the State’s interests in Delhi.
Welcoming the decision of Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur to accompany the Chief Minister to Delhi, Negi said presenting a united front would improve the chances of securing adequate central assistance.
In a pointed remark, Negi also took aim at Mandi MP and actress Kangana Ranaut, stating that disaster relief in difficult terrain isn’t suited for someone accustomed to scripted roles and stage setups. He implied that such visits are superficial and do not address the needs of affected communities.
