More ration for Himachal rural areas

The decision was taken to provide special help to the families in the tribal belt and backward areas in the wake of rampant poverty in these regions and the tough geographical conditions prevailing from July 1,2011 to June 30,2012.

The cabinet also gave its nod to the newly built Inter-State Bus Terminus in Shimla,thus clearing the decks for shifting all inter-state transport operations from the old ISBT to Tuti Kandi bypass.

The new ISBT with ultra modern facilities is the state’s first Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode project.

“This will be followed by PPP mode bus stand projects in seven other towns.

“The last date for inviting bids has been extended to July 23,instead of July 11,” said an official spokesman.

In other decisions:

* Nod to “Protsahan Chhatravriti Yojna” for all categories of students travelling a distance of over 5 km every day to attend government schools from their permanent residences. Every eligible student covering a distance of 5 to 8 kms will be eligible for a scholarship of Rs 200 per month. Those travelling over 8 km,will receive Rs 300 per month. The scheme is likely to benefit 22,500 students and happens to be the first of its kind in the country.

* In a policy change,the government approved a proposal to take over all 95 per cent of government aided private schools or staff under the government control,if these schools meet the requisite norms.

* Nod to the recommendations of the committee set up to determine transportation rates for ACC,Brmana,Gujrat Ambuja Cements,Darlaghat,J P group and Ambuja Cements,Nalagarh. It approved transportation rate of Rs 27.20 per quintal up to 40 km and Rs 68 paise per quintal for every additional km beyond that.

* Faced with criticism on sanctions given to non-Himachalis under HP Tenancy and Land Reforms Act to buy land,the Cabinet decided to constitute a sub-committee to look into the matter. Revenue Minister Gulab Singh Thakur will be the chairman of the committee

* Nod to a hike of Rs 300 in the existing Rs 1,100 per month remuneration for tailoring/embroidery teachers serving at gram panchayat level centres. It will benefit 2,095 teachers.

* Approved amendment in the Part Time Water Carrier Recruitment Policy,2009 to fill up 966 vacancies in higher and elementary education department on monthly remuneration of Rs 1,200.

* Nod to the recommendations of the committee constituted on the use of red/blue lights on vehicles. Now,additional commissioner and joint commissioner of income tax can use red lights on their vehicles.