CM Sukhu stated that the present state government has taken several significant steps over the last three and a half years to strengthen healthcare, education, and the rural economy. He said the government is working toward bringing rapid transformation across all three sectors while ensuring that underprivileged sections of society have access to affordable healthcare within the state.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the state government has introduced AIIMS-level robotic surgery facilities across all medical colleges in Himachal Pradesh, completing over 700 procedures so far. He noted that while robotic surgery costs around ₹6 lakh to ₹7 lakh in the private sector, these procedures are being performed locally for approximately ₹30,000 to ₹80,000. Additionally, three-Tesla MRI machines have been installed in all medical colleges, with a target to eliminate waiting lists for MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays within six months, alongside establishing automated laboratories within four months. An Allied Health College is being established in Hamirpur, and 320 additional postgraduate medical seats are being added this year.
On education reforms, the Chief Minister announced that government schools will soon compete directly with private institutions. Over 150 CBSE government schools have been opened, appointing teachers with over 80 percent merit, with the teacher recruitment process for these schools scheduled for completion by 15 September.
Regarding state finances and development, Sukhu shared that despite an annual reduction of ₹8,000 crore in the Revenue Deficit Grant, employee salaries and pensioner payouts remain on schedule without delay. The state also plans to develop three new towns and streamline administrative machinery. Speaking at the ‘Himachal Ratan’ event organized by Divya Himachal Newspapers Group, the Chief Minister conferred the Himachal Ratan Puruskar upon 13 distinguished personalities for their outstanding contributions.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
