On the occasion of International Youth Day, CM Sukhu emphasized that the future of Himachal Pradesh is closely tied to the well-being, direction, and empowerment of its youth. Addressing a gathering, the Chief Minister called upon young citizens to actively participate in building a drug-free Himachal by reporting drug traffickers and standing against substance abuse. He reiterated the government’s commitment to rehabilitate drug victims and take strict action against drug mafias, including the confiscation of their properties.
Highlighting various initiatives for youth, the Chief Minister spoke about employment generation, support for start-ups, and plans to boost tourism with an investment of ₹3,000 crore. He also mentioned financial incentives like low-interest loans for homestay construction to promote self-employment and tourism, with 8,000 homestays already operational.
In education, CM Sukhu pointed out that Himachal has improved its national ranking from 21st to 5th, with 10 new Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools set to begin next academic year. These schools will offer quality education and modern facilities, from pre-nursery to Class 12. Recruitment of 600 JBT teachers is also underway to strengthen the education system further.
The Chief Minister announced that 6,000 orphaned children have been officially recognized as ‘Children of the State’ and will receive government support. For higher education, the Dr. Y.S. Parmar Vidyarthi Rin Yojana offers loans up to ₹20 lakh at a 1% interest rate, easing access to quality education.
Promoting rural development, CM Sukhu highlighted that although 90% of the population lives in villages, traditional farming is declining. The State is thus promoting natural farming with minimum support prices for select crops and plans to sell processed produce via fair price shops. The efforts have received praise from the Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devvrat.
On the health front, the Chief Minister launched a statewide HIV awareness campaign covering 6,000 villages and 1,500 educational institutions. He also initiated the second phase of the Car-Bin distribution drive to promote cleanliness, with 6,000 car-bins to be distributed across Himachal.
Earlier in the day, the CM flagged off a ‘Red Run’ and ‘Bicycle Run’ to promote fitness and awareness. Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil raised concern about rising HIV cases among youth and emphasized the importance of early testing and awareness. A cultural programme was also held to sensitize the public about drug abuse and HIV prevention.
The event saw participation from various MLAs, officials, and dignitaries who pledged to and campaigns launched by the State Government.
