On the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, celebrated with patriotic fervour across Himachal Pradesh, CM Sukhu hoisted the National Flag at the state-level function held at Sarkaghat, Mandi. Amidst heavy rain, the CM took the salute from an impressive parade featuring contingents of the Police, Home Guards, ITBP, NCC, and others. Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of natural disasters due to climate change, the Chief Minister announced an additional ₹100 crore for disaster-hit families and a ₹3,000 crore project for disaster mitigation and livelihood protection. He recalled the devastation of 2023 and 2025, stating that ₹360.42 crore has already been disbursed from state funds due to lack of adequate central support.
War Against Drugs: New Board and Volunteer Scheme
Addressing the growing threat of drug addiction, particularly from “chitta” (heroin), the Chief Minister launched the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme and announced the formation of the Nasha Mukti Roktham and Punarvas Board, comprising officials, experts, and NGOs. Volunteers will act as liaisons between police and the public, promoting awareness and gathering confidential information. Additionally, village and panchayat-level anti-drug committees will be set up to strengthen grassroots-level intervention. The CM reiterated strict implementation of PIT NDPS Act, under which property worth ₹42 crore has been seized.
Education and Employment Reforms
The CM unveiled sweeping reforms in the education sector. Teachers across government institutions will no longer retire mid-session, and 200 new CBSE-pattern schools will be opened. Over 9,500 more teaching posts will soon be filled, adding to the 5,452 already appointed. A total of 23,191 jobs were provided in the public sector in the last 2.5 years, with another 51,425 placements in the private sector. Upcoming recruitments include 1,300 police personnel, 600 patwaris, 600 JBTs, 300 panchayat secretaries, and 200 doctors.
He also announced structural reforms in recruitment to ensure transparency. The disbanded HP Subordinate Services Selection Board has been replaced with Rajya Chayan Aayog, and future exams will consider both written and interview scores. A bill to punish cheating in exams with up to 3 years in prison will be introduced.
Green Energy Push and Support to Youth
Aimed at making Himachal a Green Energy State, the CM announced a ₹61 crore solar subsidy scheme with interest subvention on projects from 100 kW to 1 MW. Also, 2,000 e-three-wheeler permits will be issued to unemployed youth. The state will purchase electricity from these youth-run projects, ensuring assured income.
Boost to Rural Economy and Farmers
To uplift rural livelihoods, the CM highlighted procurement initiatives at fair prices: cow milk at ₹51/litre, buffalo milk at ₹61, and crops like maize, wheat, turmeric, and barley at premium rates. Cow dung is now being procured at ₹300/quintal under the government’s guarantee. Apple and citrus fruits are being procured under the MIS at ₹12/kg, along with the implementation of the Universal Carton system.
Healthcare and Women Welfare
Robotic surgery has been introduced at Chamiyana Hospital in Shimla, and will be expanded to other medical colleges. The Atal Medical and Research University will be shifted from Nerchowk to Sarkaghat. For women’s welfare, nearly 3 lakh eligible women are receiving ₹1,500/month under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana.
Other Announcements and Infrastructure Projects
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A new bus stand and a 150-bed hospital will be constructed at Sarkaghat.
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Land to be allocated for parking near Shiv Mandir in Sarkaghat.
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Under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana, ₹100 crore is being spent to increase public participation in afforestation.
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The government is promoting border tourism, and has requested the Centre to start Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki La.
Honouring Heroes and Cultural Celebration
The CM congratulated Flight Lt. Arshveer Thakur from Jubbal, awarded the Vir Chakra for bravery in Operation Sindoor. Remembering martyrs including Major Somnath Sharma, the CM paid homage to the country’s freedom fighters. A colourful cultural programme, including parade and life rescue demonstrations by Home Guards, marked the occasion. Participants and cultural performers were honoured.
A cheque of ₹1 lakh was presented to the CM Relief Fund by . Several dignitaries including MLAs, Congress leaders, senior officials, and public representatives were present at the celebration.
