Punjab Newsline | Shimla
Himachal Pradesh government has announced a public holiday for all government employees on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan this year. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made the announcement in the Assembly, stating that earlier only women employees were granted leave on the festival, while male employees had to work.
Chief Minister said Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters, and both men and women should have the opportunity to spend the day with their families. He added that the revised holiday policy will allow government employees across the state to celebrate the festival together.
In another relief measure, women will be allowed to travel free of cost in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses on Raksha Bandhan. The initiative is expected to benefit women travelling to their parental homes or visiting family members in different parts of the state.
The government has also issued special instructions regarding HRTC bus operations on the festival day. Bus drivers have been directed to stop buses for women passengers when required, particularly in areas where bus stops are located far away or transport services are limited.
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on a large scale across Himachal Pradesh, leading to a significant rise in passenger traffic. The government believes the free travel facility and special transport arrangements will make commuting easier for women and help families celebrate the festival without inconvenience.
Ahead of Raksha Bandhan, Brahma Kumaris sisters in Shimla tied sacred threads and highlighted the values of love, trust and the sacred brother-sister relationship.
