Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India]: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that the Indora Utsav-2024 will be celebrated as a district-level festival from next year. The announcement was made during a public event, according to an official release.
The Chief Minister also distributed eligibility certificates to 14 children under the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana, a scheme designed to support the education of children from widows and single women. He assured that the state government would bear all related expenses.
Efforts Against Drug Abuse
While addressing the gathering, CM Sukhu lauded the festival’s efforts in raising awareness about drug abuse through cultural programs. He emphasized the state’s commitment to combating drug issues, particularly in regions near Punjab.
“The state has implemented strict laws to confiscate properties of drug offenders, and properties of such individuals in the Indora area have already been seized,” he said.
Development Projects in Kangra District
CM Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the development of Kangra district. Key projects include:
- Expansion of Kangra Airport.
- Construction of a ₹300 crore milk processing plant at Dhagwar.
- Approval for water sports at Pong Dam, with activities expected to commence soon.
Support for Farmers and Rural Economy
Highlighting measures to strengthen the rural economy, the CM announced the following initiatives:
- Increased support price for cow milk (₹32 to ₹45/kg) and buffalo milk (₹47 to ₹55/kg).
- Procurement of locally produced maize at ₹30/kg and wheat at ₹40/kg to benefit farmers.
- Daily wage under MNREGA increased to ₹300.
The Chief Minister also noted an increase in disaster compensation for those affected by last year’s calamity in Indora, raising the amount from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹7 lakh.
Fulfilled Promises and Political Remarks
CM Sukhu reflected on fulfilling seven key promises, including the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees, a move he credited to his administration’s first cabinet meeting.
Criticizing the BJP’s tenure in Himachal Pradesh, he accused the opposition of internal conflicts and poor governance, which he claimed led to a decline in the state’s sectors. He contrasted this with his government’s reforms aimed at improving the state’s welfare and growth.
“Our government is focused on policies that benefit the common man, reflecting our dedication to public welfare,” he concluded.