Chamba district has emerged as a front-runner in overall performance under the Aspirational District Programme, reflecting significant progress across key development indicators.
Chairing a review meeting of the Aspirational District and Block Programme, Secretary (Planning) Dr. Abhishek Jain emphasized that the success of any welfare scheme lies in its ability to uplift socially and economically disadvantaged sections and ensure equitable growth. He noted that these initiatives are designed to promote holistic development in remote and backward regions of the state.
Dr. Jain directed officials to hold quarterly review meetings at the Secretary level and to ensure regular monitoring of district-level progress for effective implementation.
Highlighting Chamba’s achievements, he informed that the district had been allocated ₹25 crore between March 2019 and February 2025 based on its strong performance. Additionally, ₹41.74 crore had been sanctioned under CSR funds, and seven projects worth ₹58.07 crore are currently being implemented in the district through NHPC, SJVN, and CSR partnerships.
Dr. Jain also stated that Pangi and Tissa blocks of Chamba, Pooh block of Kinnaur, Nirmand block of Kullu, and Kupvi and Chauhara blocks of Shimla have been identified as Aspirational Blocks. For outstanding performance in the September 2023 quarter, Pangi block received an additional ₹2 crore, while Pooh block was allocated ₹3 crore for 2024–25.
As a special initiative, Pangi sub-division has been declared the first Natural Farming Sub-Division of Himachal Pradesh, promoting traditional and sustainable agricultural practices. The state government has fixed a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹60 per kilogram for naturally grown barley from the region—marking a first-of-its-kind step for local farmers.
Officials from various departments and districts participated in the meeting, reaffirming their commitment to accelerating development in the state’s aspirational districts and blocks.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
