Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unfurled the National Flag at Pragpur in Kangra district today during the 56th Statehood Day celebrations of Himachal Pradesh, marking the first time the event was held at the historic town. He took the salute from the parade contingents led by IPS officer Taruna, with participation from IRBN units, district police, Home Guards, SDRF, NCC, Scouts and Guides, Van Mitras and other organizations.
Extending Statehood Day greetings, the Chief Minister recalled the contributions of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Y.S. Parmar, in securing statehood for the State. He announced the formation of an Agriculture and Horticulture Commission to ensure the participation of farmers and orchardists and protect their interests, stating that a Bill would be introduced in the forthcoming Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly.
The Chief Minister announced the opening of an SDM office at Pragpur and a Primary Health Centre at Nalsuha in Jaswan Assembly Constituency. He also announced that arrears of pensioners and family pensioners aged 70 years and above would be cleared in January at an estimated cost of Rs. 90 crore. In addition, partial payment of gratuity and leave encashment arrears of Class-IV employees retiring between January 2016 and December 2021 would be made, involving an expenditure of Rs. 96 crore.
Sukhu said that the preparation of the ‘Samriddh Himachal Vision’ document was in its final stage and would serve as a roadmap for balanced, inclusive and environmentally sustainable development of the State. He highlighted the financial challenges faced by the State, emphasizing that despite reduced central transfers and fiscal constraints, the government was strengthening its finances through resource mobilization and expenditure rationalization.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting natural resources, strengthening the rural economy and ensuring direct benefits to farmers, women and youth. He also highlighted measures taken for disaster relief, health and education reforms, grievance redressal and employment generation.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister released the web series “The White Truth”, aimed at creating awareness among youth about the harmful effects of drug abuse. A colourful cultural programme was presented, and the Chief Minister honoured parade contingents and cultural troupes for their participation in the Statehood Day celebrations.
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