Punjab Newsline,Himachal :
56th Statehood Day celebrations marked by announcements on pension arrears, agriculture-horticulture commission, new offices and health facilities
Chief Minister CM Sukhu extended greetings to the people of Himachal Pradesh during the 56th Statehood Day function held at Pragpur in Kangra district. This was the first time that the state-level Statehood Day celebration was organized at Pragpur. CM Sukhu unfurled the national flag and took the salute of the parade. Various contingents including police, home guards, SDRF, NCC, scouts and guides participated in the parade, making the event vibrant and memorable.
On the occasion, CM Sukhu recalled the invaluable contribution of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar, in granting full statehood to Himachal Pradesh. He announced the formation of an Agriculture and Horticulture Commission to safeguard the rights of farmers and orchardists and ensure their participation in policymaking. He said that a bill for setting up the commission would be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the Vidhan Sabha.
CM Sukhu also announced the opening of an SDM office at Pragpur in the Jaswan Assembly constituency and a Primary Health Centre at Nalsuha to strengthen administrative and health services in the region.
Addressing pension-related issues, CM Sukhu said that during this month, the government would clear the pending pension and family pension arrears of pensioners aged 70 years and above. An amount of about Rs 90 crore will be spent for this purpose. He further announced that fourth-class employees who retired between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2021, would receive 50 percent of their pending gratuity and 70 percent of their leave encashment arrears in January.
CM Sukhu stated that the state government is preparing a comprehensive document titled ‘Prosperous Himachal Vision’, which is now in its final stage. He said the vision document has been prepared after extensive consultations with the public, experts, administration and institutions, keeping environmental protection, disaster resilience and inclusive development at its core.
Referring to financial challenges, CM Sukhu said that despite limited central assistance, the state government has strengthened its financial position by increasing its own revenue and cutting non-essential expenditure. He emphasized that the government is committed to protecting Himachal Pradesh’s natural resources while ensuring sustainable development.
During the event, colorful cultural programmes were presented, and the web series ‘The White Truth’ was released to raise awareness among youth about the harmful effects of drug abuse. CM Sukhu also honored participants of the parade and cultural troupes on the occasion.