This is an archive article published on December 11, 2024
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From e-cabs and natural farming to mobile clinics, Himachal CM Sukhu launches six welfare schemes
Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was celebrating two years of his government in Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Congress state incharge Rajiv Shukla, state party president Pratibha Singh and other leaders during a rally marking two-year rule of the Himachal Congress government, in Bilaspur on Wednesday. (PTI Photo)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday unveiled six welfare schemes and distributed financial assistance to beneficiaries during an event at Luhnu Ground, Bilaspur, marking two years of his government. Thousands of people attended the event, which was also a show of unity as all 11 Cabinet ministers and state Congress chief Pratibha Singh were present.
Among the newly launched schemes were:
e-taxi under the Rajiv Gandhi Start-up Swarojgar Yojna: The Chief Minister handed over keys to 16 beneficiaries who received a 50 per cent subsidy to purchase e-taxis, leased to government offices for five years to ensure a steady income. About 150 permits will be issued in the first phase.
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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.
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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.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Congress state incharge Rajiv Shukla, state party president Pratibha Singh and other leaders during a rally marking two-year rule of the Himachal Congress government, in Bilaspur on Wednesday. (PTI Photo) 
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