From e-cabs and natural farming to mobile clinics, Himachal CM Sukhu launches six welfare schemes

Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna: Financial assistance worth Rs. 1.38 crore was disbursed to 5,145 beneficiaries, with plans to support 23,000 children of widows, destitute women, and others with Rs. 1,000 monthly aid and higher education assistance under this Rs 53.21-crore initiative.

Himachal Pradesh Shiva Project: A Rs 1,292-crore horticulture project covering 6,000 hectares in seven districts aims to benefit over 15,000 farming families by promoting the cultivation of fruits like oranges and guavas.

Him Bhog Atta and natural farming support: Maize grown using natural farming methods was procured, and Rs. 1.20 crore was transferred directly to farmers. The state also announced the integration of 36,000 new farmers into its Rs. 680-crore Rajiv Gandhi Natural Farming Start-up Scheme.

Cow dung purchase scheme: The state will buy organic and vermi-compost at Rs. 300 per quintal, boosting farmer incomes. Payments of Rs. 1 lakh each were distributed to 100 farmers.

Mobile Ayush healthcare units: Five mobile units were flagged off to serve remote tribal regions like Kinnaur, Lahaul & Spiti, and Chamba, offering traditional treatments tailored to local needs.

The CM also announced financial aid of Rs. 1.90 crore under the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana to 197 beneficiaries, including housing grants, marriage and education aid, and vocational training.

During his speech, Sukhu attacked the BJP for alleged attempts to topple his government, asserting that Himachal Pradesh would become the most prosperous state by 2032. State Congress chief Pratibha Singh also criticised the BJP for its failed “Operation Lotus.”

The event demonstrated a united Congress leadership, with Rajeev Shukla, the party’s state in-charge, as the chief guest.