Allegations of irregularities in the Himcare health scheme have come under official scrutiny, with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu ordering a formal inquiry while strongly criticising the previous BJP government for alleged financial mismanagement and fraudulent claims.
Addressing the media, the Chief Minister alleged that during the previous regime, serious anomalies occurred under the Himcare scheme, including instances where even medical procedures like ovarian surgeries were wrongly shown against male beneficiaries. He said the government has taken cognisance of the matter and initiated a detailed investigation.
Sukhu further accused the earlier government of misusing public funds and asserted that the present administration is committed to transparency and strict action against corruption. He said governance reforms are being undertaken with a focus on public welfare and accountability.
Referring to the education sector, the Chief Minister claimed that standards had declined during the previous government’s tenure, with Himachal Pradesh ranking 21st in education quality in 2021. He highlighted ongoing reforms, including the introduction of English-medium education from Class I and the upgradation of 151 schools under the CBSE system.
He added that teacher recruitment for these institutions would be completed by June 30, with the selection process already underway. Sukhu expressed confidence that these measures would significantly improve learning outcomes, especially in rural areas, and stated that the state has now improved to 5th position in quality education rankings.
The Chief Minister also emphasised that no discrimination should exist among students on the basis of fees, reiterating the government’s focus on equal educational opportunities.
On healthcare reforms, Sukhu said the government is strengthening medical infrastructure by establishing model health institutions in every constituency. He noted that the Fatehpur facility now has eight specialist doctors for the first time. Advanced medical equipment similar to AIIMS standards is being introduced in government medical colleges and health centres to improve access to quality healthcare.
On environmental and rural welfare measures, the Chief Minister said efforts are being made to improve drinking water quality across the state. He also announced support measures for fishermen, including a minimum support price for reservoir fisheries and an honorarium of ₹3,500 during the monsoon fishing ban period. Additionally, the royalty on fish catch in reservoirs has been reduced from 15 per cent to 1 per cent.
Sukhu reiterated that his government is focused on public service-oriented governance rather than vote-bank politics, with reforms being implemented across education, health, and rural livelihoods.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
