AIIMS के डॉक्‍टरों की निगरानी में CM सुक्‍खू, जल्‍द मिलेगी अस्‍पताल से छुट्टी; नए सिरे से हुए मेडिकल टेस्‍ट

नई दिल्ली स्थित एम्स में भर्ती मुख्यमंत्री सुखविंदर सिंह सुक्खू को मंगलवार 31 अक्टूबर को अस्पताल से छुट्टी होने की संभावना व्यक्त की जा रही है। उसके बाद भी मुख्यमंत्री सुक्खू अगले सात दिनों तक दिल्ली में रहेंगे और वहीं रहकर आराम करेंगे। नई दिल्ली एम्स के चिकित्सकों के अनुसार नए सिरे से मुख्यमंत्री के स्वास्थ्य संबंधी परीक्षण किए गए, रविवार को भी कई और परीक्षण होंगे।

उनके स्वास्थ्य में अपेक्षाकृत सुधार हो रहा है, मुख्यमंत्री चिकित्सकों की निगरानी में हैं। एम्स के चिकित्सक लगातार मुख्यमंत्री सुक्खू का स्वास्थ्य जांच रहे हैं। शनिवार को भी दिल्ली एम्स में मुख्यमंत्री से जरूरी टेस्ट लिए गए। जिनकी रिपोर्ट सामान्य आई है। उनकी पेट दर्द में 80 फीसदी तक का सुधार आ गया है। ऐसे में चिकित्सक लगातार उनकी निगरानी कर रहे हैं।

पहले ले जाया गया था आईजीएमसी

गौरतलब है कि बुधवार देर रात एक बजे मुख्यमंत्री सुक्खू को पेट दर्द होने पर आईजीएमसी ले जाया गया था। यहां पर चिकित्सकों ने उनके जरूरी टेस्ट किए। जिसके बाद यह पता चला कि उनके पेट में संक्रमण है। यहां पर चिकित्सकों ने उनका उपचार शुरू किया। जिसके बाद उन्हें आराम हो गया, लेकिन आईजीएमसी के चिकित्सकों ने मुख्यमंत्री को एक बार दिल्ली एम्स जाकर जांच करवाने की सलाह दी। दिल्ली एम्स पहुंचने के बाद मुख्यमंत्री के दोबारा से स्वास्थ्य संबंधी परीक्षण हुए। परीक्षण रिपोर्ट में ऐसा पाया गया कि उनके पेट में संक्रमण था।

पैंक्रियाज में है इंफेक्शन

मुख्यमंत्री सुखविंदर सिंह सुक्खू के पेट के साथ-साथ पैंक्रियाज में संक्रमण हुआ है। जिस वजह से उन्हें पेट में दर्द हुआ। पैंक्रियाज भी पेट का ही एक अंग है। यह भोजन के उपरांत पाचन करने में मदद करता है और शुगर लेवल को भी नियंत्रित करने का काम करता है। अगर इसमें संक्रमण हो जाए तो उसमें बहुत तेज असहनीय दर्द होता है। उपचार के बाद यह ठीक हो जाता है।

सीएम के स्वास्थ्य में सुधार

मुख्यमंत्री के प्रधान मीडिया सलाहकार नरेश चौहान ने बताया कि मुख्यमंत्री सुखविंदर सिंह सुक्खू के स्वास्थ्य में पहले से सुधार हो रहा है। अभी एक सप्ताह तक मुख्यमंत्री दिल्ली में ही रहेंगे। अगले सप्ताह मंगलवार तक उन्हें एम्स से छुट्टी मिल सकती है। चिकित्सक मुख्यमंत्री के स्वास्थ्य को लगातार मानिटर कर रहे हैं। एम्स में मुख्यमंत्री के स्वास्थ्य संबंधी कई तरह के परीक्षण हुए हैं।

Sukhu shifted to AIIMS-Delhi, may be discharged in 2-3 days

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology at AIIMS, New Delhi, today.

According to a government spokesperson, the Chief Minister was likely to stay in the hospital for the next two or three days. "He is under the observation of a team of doctors, which has found his reports normal. His health is stable and he is recovering fast," he said.

The Chief Minister was rushed to the IGMC on Wednesday night with stomach ache. However, he flew to AIIMS, New Delhi, for consultation this morning on the "advice of IGMC doctors".

"He was recovering well at the IGMC but it was decided to take the opinion of AIIMS doctors. It's just stomach infection and he would be fine in the next couple of days," said Dr Brij Sharma, Head of Department of Gastroenterology at the IGMC.

Constitutional positions at stake, says Mamata Banerjee

Claiming Constitutional positions "are at stake", West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today blasted the Modi government for CBI raids at the residence of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and wondered what would happen if a CM orders raids at the house of Prime Minister.

Addressing a Chief Ministers' conclave organised by the Delhi Government, Banerjee made a stinging attack on the Modi dispensation, accusing it of running "parallel governments" in states through governors and "turning everything into communal".

"Today you conduct raids in the residence of Chief Ministers. But tomorrow if a chief minister raids the residence of Prime Minister? All the constitutional positions are at stake. We have never seen such things (raids) happen at the houses of President, PM, CM, judges, newspaper editors. There should be ethics. They have no such ethics," she said.

The CBI had on Saturday conducted searches at 13 places, including Singh's residences in Shimla and here, on the day of his daughter's wedding, in connection with a disproportionate assets case.


source: EconomicTimes

Chief Minister expresses satisfaction over rescue of two trapped labourers

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh while expressing satisfaction over the rescue operations to extricate the trapped labourers said that the efforts of all those who were conducting the rescue operation though had been successful but the operation won’t stop until or unless the third labourer was found.

“I hope and pray to almighty about the well being and safety of Hriday Ram, the third labourer who was still missing” he said. The operation would continue till we find him, added he.

He said that the Border Road Organization, State Disaster Management Authority, the district administration, National Disaster Response Force and all other involved in relief and rescue operations deserve appreciation for their relentless efforts despite harsh weather conditions.

“It was not an easy task and the work had to be carried out scientifically and technically  so that no further harm could have been done to those trapped inside” he said adding that at last Satish Tomar from village Taru of Sirmaur, Mani Ram of village Kerari of Mandi district were taken out safely.

The Chief Minister said that the rescue teams and even the district administration along-with Superintendent of Police, and Deputy Commissioner had camped day and night there to monitor the operation and also to give courage to the families of the three trapped.

He said that such incidents were very rare and it was unfortunate that the tunnel caved in unexpectedly trapping them inside and to leave them to undergo a never ending ordeal for almost nine days. The Chief Minister said that 26 kilometers Nathpa Jhakri tunnel, the Larji tunnel etc were also constructed but fortunately and by Gods grace no such incident ever happened. It was a matter of chance and all kudos to the rescue team and the district administration which kept on working day and night for extricating the three trapped. 

 “It will be ensured that such incidents do not occur in future” he said adding that all the safety measures had to be adopted by the construction companies before undertaking big hydel, tunneling or road projects at hand.

He said that it was necessary to study the strata before undertaking such projects and the tunneling was being done in Shivalik hills of the State where the soil was loose which made the tunnel to cave in.

On the other hand for the relatives of both Satish Tomar and Mani Ram happiness had no bounds. As per reports received from Bilaspur, the two were taken to Intensive Care Unit of district hospital, Bilaspur straight away after being brought out from the tunnel.

 

 

CM Launches Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh today launched State Level Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY), an ambitious financial inclusion scheme under which the Government intends to provide every household with a bank account and insurance cover to the poor. The Scheme was simultaneously launched at National level by  Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

After the launching of the Scheme Chief Minister said that it would go a long way in strengthening the socio-economic development and would provide several other benefits to the people and associate the people of the State with the Banking system.

Initially every account holder will get a RuPay debit card with rupees One lakh as accident cover to the poor besides there was also provision of micro loan to women upto Rs.5000, said he.

Chief Minister said that main objective of the scheme was to provide banking facility to the poorest of the poor so that in case of any financial emergency they could be provided relief through the scheme. This would help in economic empowerment of the poor.

Chief Minister said that the Banks had played pivotal role in strengthening of the economy of the people particularly in agriculture and Rural development sector in Himachal Pradesh.

He said that there were 1827 branches of banks in the State out of which 1460 branches were functioning in rural areas. As against the National average of one branch per 13,000 people, the State boasts of having one branch per 3575 people, which was far better than the National level and indicates about the wide network of banks in the State.

Social welfare sector was amongst the top priorities of the State and Himachal Pradesh was amongst one of the leading States in the Country. He said that the social security pension had been enhanced from Rs 450 to Rs 550 per month and a sum of Rs 1000 was given as pension to those above 80 years of age. He said that Himachal Pradesh had already excelled in providing banking access to the people of the State and the to avail the benefits of various welfare schemes the State Government has enhanced the annual income limit of the people from Rs 20000 to Rs.35000.

He said that all the 304921 pensioners of the State were being facilitated through the banks. He said that the State Government was endeavoured to provide houses to houseless and was providing two biswa of land in urban and three biswa of land in rural areas to eligible houseless. He said that there were 383464 eligible families under the National Swasthya Bima Yojna and State Government has also included the scavengers, rickshaw pullers and taxi drivers.

Under various housing schemes in the State the financial assistance being provided to the poor has been enhanced from Rs 48500 to Rs 75000 and as many as 10700 new houses were being constructed.

“Our Government launched Skill development Allowance Scheme to upgrade skills of the youth and was also providing them an honorarium” he said.

The State Government was committed for the upliftment of weaker section of the society as no scheme or task can be accomplished without effective participation of the community. He said that the benefits being provided by the State Government should percolate down to the last man.

The Chief Minister also distributed RuPay debit cards to the beneficiaries on the occasion.

Earlier Sh JK Garg, Executive Director UCO Bank welcomed the Chief Minister on the occasion and detailed about the Scheme. He said that the scheme would be launched in two phases and would cover as many as seven crore households in the country.

Sh Harsh Mahajan, Chairman HP State Co-operative Bank, Chief Secretary, Sh P Mitra, Principal Secretary Finance, Dr. Shrikant Baldi, Sh KK Verma Chief Manager, UCO Bank,   senior officers of the State Government and the Banking Institutions  and representative of the Panchayats were also present on the occasion amongst the others.

Govt. ensuring planned development of urban areas-CM

Chief Minister Mr. Virbhadra Singh stated that State Government was ensuring planned and systematic development of the urban areas with special focus on strengthening essential civic services and infrastructure. He said that housing units were being developed in major towns of the State and 18 projects had been sent for approval to the Union Ministry of Urban Development for small and medium towns under Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme amounting to Rs. 406.32 crore.
Chief Minister was speaking after laying foundation stone of construction of 328 dwelling units at Lower Barol in Dharamshala under Integrated Housing and Slum Development Project (IHSDP) today. He also laid foundation stone of Faculty House cum College Canteen for Government College of Teachers Education at Dharamshala which will be constructed at a cost of Rs. 3.10 crore.
Mr. Virbhadra Singh, earlier, laid foundation stone of Multi Purpose building of District Red Cross Society, Kangra at Dharamshala to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 582.80 lakh. The building will have facility of Guest House, Cretch, Conference-cum-Training Hall, space for commercial activities along-with parking for 40 vehicles. He lauded the efforts of the District Red Cross Society in serving the suffering humanity in time of distress and undertaking various welfare activities for the needy, poor and weaker sections of the society. He said that all district units of the Red Cross Society had been rendering their valuable services and efforts were being made to expand their activities with the participation of people.
On this occasion, he also handed over wheel chairs to Smt. Babita Kumari and Mr. Vinod Kumar of Kangra Tehsil. He also presented hearing aid equipments to Mr. Saurabh Kapoor, Mr. Dhani Ram, Mr. Gian Chand, Mr. Kirlu Ram and Mr. Shyam Lal, all from Kangra district on behalf of Red Cross Society.
The Chief Minister announced to upgrade GPS Lugat to Middle School, GMS Uttarpur in Gram Panchayat Bijapur to High School and GHS Lower Lamba Gaon to Senior Secondary School during his visit to Jaisinghpur constituency last evening. He also announced to open Ayurvedic Dispensary at Uttarpur.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister Mr. G.S. Bali, Urban Development Minister Mr. Sudhir Sharma, President, Dharamshala Block Congress Mr. Suresh Pappi, Chairman, HP School Education Board Mr. Balbir Tegta, Director Higher Education Mr. Dinkar Burathoki, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mr. Rohan Thakur, Superintendent of Police Mr. Balbir Thakur and other prominent persons were present on the occasion among others.

Chief Minister announces Sub-Tehsil for Panchrukhi

‘To better understand the aspirations and expectations of common man, I am personally touring every corner of the State so that the grievances of the people are redressed at their very door step’ said Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh while addressing a massive public meeting at Panchrukhi in district Kangra today.

He reiterated the resolve of the Government for uniform and equitable development of the State with special emphasis on development of the far flung and remote areas. He said that the successive Congress Governments ensured all-round development of the State whereas BJP Governments had always neglected the interests of the State and divided the people in the name of regionalism and casteism. He also expressed concern over the declining dignity of the State politics and said that people could not be misled for long by those in opposition.

He announced to open Sub Tehsil at Panchrukhi in Jaisinghpur assembly constituency of Kangra district and also announced to open Primary Health Centre at Majhera and taking over the Swami Vivekanand Gramodaya College, Shivnagar under government control.

The Chief Minister announced to upgrade GHS Andreta and Salyana to Government Senior Secondary Schools alongwith starting Science and Commerce classes in Andreta School and Science classes in Salyana School. He also announced to upgrade Government Middle School Bakhana. He said that the work on Nadli road would be completed on war footing besides starting science classes in GSSS Majhera and Makol.

Earlier, he inaugurated the bridge over Sukkar khad on Jalog-Arath-Pat-Tatrala-Nahalana road constructed at a cost of Rs. 88 lakh under NABARD. He also inaugurated another bridge over Sukkar (Danel) khad on Sandrola-Karanghat road constructed at a cost of Rs. 1.51 crore. He inaugurated additional accommodation of GSSS Makol constructed at a cost of Rs. 91 lakh and Science Block of GSSS Majhera constructed at a cost of Rs. 79 lakh. He also inaugurated Lift Water Supply Scheme Shantivan which has been completed by spending an amount of Rs. 55.49 lakh. This scheme would benefit around 2450 people of Lugat, Parman, Khajurnu and Kangri villages. Shri Virbhadra Singh was accorded rousing reception at various places on his visit to Jaisinghpur assembly segment.

Shri G.S. Bali, Food and Civil Supplies Minister, said that the present Government had initiated various innovative schemes to benefit the common man. He said that Government was providing subsidy worth crores of rupees for subsidized ration to all ration card holders besides power subsidy.

Shri Bali announced to start a new bus service between Palampur and Chandigarh via Panchrukhi-Tinbar-Jaisinghpur.

Shri Yadvinder Goma, local MLA welcomed the Chief Minister and said that the pace of development had been accelerated in the constituency after formulation of Congress Government in the State. He thanked the Chief Minister for announcing Sub Tehsil at Panchrukhi and upgradation of various schools in the area. Shri Chander Kumar, former Minister thanked the Chief Minister for sanctioning various major developmental projects for Kangra district. Shri Jagdish Sipahiya, Chairman, Kangra Central Cooperative Bank also spoke on the occasion. Shri Jaswant Singh Dadwal, President, Jaisinghpur Block Congress welcomed the Chief Minister. Shri Jagjivan Pal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Shri Pawan Kajal and Shri Kishori Lal, MLA’s, Shri Milkhi Ram Goma, Ex-MLA, Kumari Manbhari Devi, President, State Mahila Congress, Shri Balbir Tegta, Chairman, H.P. Board of School Education, Dharamshala and other prominent persons were present on the occasion.

Chief Minister visits PGIMER to inquire about the Health of Chief Secretary

Chief Minister Shri Virbharda Singh today visited PGIMER, Chandigarh to inquire about the health condition of the Chief Secretary, Shri Sudripta Roy, who has undergone a surgery for brain hemorrhage.

Chief Minister interacted with the doctors attending the Chief Secretary and also met Smt. Chandna Roy, the wife of Chief Secretary and other family members. He assured the family of the Chief Secretary that State Government and the people of the state were with them in this hour of distress. He wished speedy recovery to Shri Roy. 

Dr. Yogesh Kumar Chawla, Director, PGIMER briefed the Chief Minister about the health of the Chief Secretary.

Chief Minister Inspects Himachal Sarai & Sadan.

Chief Minister today inspected Himachal Sarai and Himachal Sadan in Chandigarh. He directed the officer incharge of PWD to maintain proper hygienic conditions and maintenance of the buildings so that visitors did not face any inconvenience. 

He said that Himachal Sarai and Himachal Sadan had been constructed to facilitate the patients of Himachal Pradesh undergoing treatment at PGIMER and there should be no laxity in providing them better facilities. 

Shri Hardeep Singh Baba, Chairman, H.P. Buildings and other construction Welfare Board, Shri T.G. Negi, Advisor to Chief Minister, Shri V.C. Pharka, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Shri Ali Raza Rizvi Principal Secretary Health, Shri Madan Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner Solan, Shri Ramesh Chhajta, Superintendent of Police Solan, Shri N.K. Lath, Additional Deputy Commissioner Shimla, Shri P.C. Akela, Registrar PGI and Shri K.R. Saizal Administrator Officer PGI were also present among others.

Governor and Chief Minister felicitate people On Dussehra

Governor, Smt. Urmila Singh and Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh felicitated people of the State on the occasion of Vijay Dashmi. 

The Governor said that Dussehra festival was symbolic of victory of good over evil and hoped the festival would be celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the State. 

Chief Minister extended heartiest felicitation to the people of the State on the occasion and wished that the festival would bring happiness, peace and prosperity in the lives of the people of the State. 

State Government Committed for Development Areas: CM

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh said that the State Government was committed for uniform and balanced development of the State and special emphasis was being given for tribal areas so as to bring them in main stream. He was addressing a public meeting at Udaipur in Lahaul & Spiti district today. 

Earlier he paid obeisance in Mata Mrikula Devi temple, Udaipur. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that the State Government had allocated Rs. 369 crores under Tribal Sub-Plan for the year 2013-14, which was 11 per cent higher than the previous year. Total budget of Rs. 764 crores have been allocated including Non-Plan allocations to ensure speedy development of tribal areas. He said that Rs. 3.60 crore would be spent on roads, bridges and buildings in Lahaul Division during current fiscal. Apart from it Rs. 25 lakh would be spent on metaling and tarring under NABARAD, he added. 

Chief Minister said that the State Government had provided free travel facility in HRTC buses to all the students studying in Government schools from their homes to school and back and free school uniforms would be provided to all the students studying in Government schools under ‘Mahatma Gandhi Vardi Yojna’. He said that Rs. 41 lakh were being spent for qualitative improvement in education and technical education in the Lahaul valley. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that the State Government had enhanced the Social Security Pension from Rs. 450 to Rs. 500 per month and senior citizens above 80 years would be given social security pension of Rs. 1000 per month. He said that Rs. 88 lakh had been allocated to provide social security pension in Lahaul valley during current fiscal year. 

He said that Rs. 1.73 crore had been allocated for agriculture sector in Lahaul valley under Tribal Sub-Plan. Besides, Rs. 46 lakh were being spent to provide subsidized seeds, fertilizers and pesticides under Special Central Assistance. He said that Rs. 10 lakh were being spent under National Agriculture Development Scheme while 44.36 lakh would be spent under ‘Kisan Bagwan Samridhi Yojna’. He said that agriculturists of Lahaul valley were being provided subsidized potato and pea seeds. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that there was no dearth of money for the development of tribal areas and targets were being set for the officers to ensure proper utilization of funds. He took strict notice of slow pace of certain development schemes in Lahaul valley and said strict action would be taken against the concerned officers. He said that contractors who do not complete their assigned work in stipulated time would be blacklisted. He directed the officers to ensure the completion of construction work of Udaipur stadium before winters. 

Chief Minister said that the transfers of Government officers and employees would not be cancelled in tribal areas and they have to join their duties otherwise their promotions would be affected. He said that vacant posts in various departments such as education and health etc. would be filled up on priority basis in Lahaul valley. He said that demand of opening Sub-BDO office at Udaipur would be considered sympathetically. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that appropriate funds would be provided to mitigate the damages occurred in Mayad valley due to natural calamity. He also announced Rs. 10 lakh for setting up a span at Karpat village to facilitate the farmers to send their products to the markets. He said that interests of local people would be safe guarded while constructing the power projects in the tribal areas. 

Later, while addressing a public meeting at Keylong, Chief Minister said that the UPA Government had brought revolutionary Food Security Act to provide food security to the people. He said that it would benefit about 37 lakh people in the State who would get three kgs wheat at Rs. two per kg and two kg rice at Rs. 3 per kg. while the families not covered under this Act would continue to get subsidized ration i.e. three pulses, two edible oils, sugar, rice, flour and iodized salt on previous pattern. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that people of the State should welcome setting up of hydel projects as they benefit not only the State but also the country, as power was must for development. He said that large number of people were displaced due to construction of Bhakra and Pong Dam while least were affected due to 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Project. He said that the Government would allow only run of river projects as they affect minimum population. He assured that the affected people would be given proper compensation in these projects. He said that projects upto 5 MW would be given only to Himachalis and preference would be given to them upto 25 MW projects so that people of State come forward in this sector.

Chief Minister said that the Government would provide relief of Rs. 86 lakh to the Lahaul Potato Society which suffered huge losses due to rottening of 21,667 bags of potatoes in the year 2011-12. He said that if there were enough money available in this budget the same would be released this year otherwise it would be provided in two instalments. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh announced to upgrade Government High Schools Gosal and Chimrat to Government Senior Secondary Schools. 

Member Parliament Smt. Pratibha Singh said that she was striving hard to ensure the speedy development of Lahaul-Spiti alongwith other areas of Mandi Parliamentary Constituency. She also expressed her gratitude for providing massive mandate to ensure her victory in recent held by-elections. 

MLA Shri Ravi Thakur welcomed the Chief Minister and detailed about the various development activities being carried out in Lahaul valley. He also put forth the various demands of the area. 

Former MLA Shri Raghuvir Singh Thakur, Tribal Advisory Committee Member Shri Pyaray Lal, Panchayat Pradhan Shri Shamsher Singh, Congress leader Shri Jai Ram, Shri Sansar Chand and President District Youth Congress Shri Deepak Thakur also spoke on the occasion. President Block Congress Udaipur Shri Dalip Bodh presented vote of thanks at Udaipur.

While at Keylong MLA Shri Ravi Thakur, former MLA Shri Raghuvir Singh Thakur, President Block Samiti Shri Norbo Pans, Tribal Advisory Council Member Shri Nabag Bodh and President Mahila Congress Ms. Shashi Kiran also spoke. 

Forest Minister Shri Thakur Singh Bharmouri, Advisor to Chief Minister Shri T.G. Negi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister & Tribal Development Shri V.C. Pharka, DC Lahaul-Spiti Shri Beer Singh Thakur, SP Shri Shiv Kumar and prominent persons were present on the occasion. 

Chief Minister lays foundation stone of Rs. 20.80 crore Mini Secretariat building at Killar

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh was given a rousing reception on his arrival at Killar today on beginning of his five days tour of tribal areas of the State. Member Parliament, Mandi constituency Smt. Pratibha Singh and Forest Minister Shri Thakur Singh Bharmouri also accompanied the Chief Minister. 

Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of Mini Secretariat building at Killar to be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 20.80 crores. On completion it would provide the facilities to the people of area for getting their works pertaining to various departments done under one roof. The six storied building would have Resident Commissioner, SDM, BDO, Agriculture, Veterinary, I&PR and other offices alongwith parking facility. 

Speaking on the occasion Shri Virbhadra Singh directed the officers working in tribal areas to complete the on-going works keeping in view the limited working season in these areas so that the they do not hamper due to adverse weather condition in ensuing winter. He directed the officers to complete the construction work of Government Degree College Killar and Hospital building at earliest. 

Chief Minister said that tribal areas of the State had rich cultural heritage which needed to be preserved and promoted. He said that the State Government was making efforts to promote these areas as religious tourism destinations. He said that famous temple of Mata Mindal would be taken under Government control and proper upkeep and maintenance would be done to facilitate the pilgrims. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that the present State Government had made significant achievements during last nine months and many important decisions had been taken which would go a long way in accelerating the development of the State. He said that previous Government had neglected interests of the people and various jobs were provided on the basis of party lines whereas the present Government was committed to provide jobs on ability and merit basis. He said that the State Government was endeavouring to fill up all the vacant functional posts in tribal and hard areas of the State and preference would be given to the local youth. 

Chief Minister said that the State Government was striving to connect tribal and hard areas with tunnels, which would not only reduce the distances but would also boost tourism activities in these areas. He said that a tunnel would be constructed at Chehni and Rs. 30 lakh have been sanctioned for conducting its survey. 

Chief Minister announced to upgrade Government High School Karyuni to Government Senior Secondary School, Government Middle Schools Shore, Phindru and Karyas to Government High Schools and opening of a Primary School at village Chlasri. He also announced to open HRTC Sub-Depot at Killar and Veterinary Dispensary at village Chaloli. He announced the construction of foot-bridge at Sandhari. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh announced Rs. 10,000 each to Mahila Mandals who presented cultural programme on the occasion. He also announced Rs. 5,000 each to the school students who presented National Anthem and National Song. 

Chief Minister also inspected the Hospital and work of College building which is under construction. 

M.P. Smt. Pratibha Singh thanked the people of Pangi Valley for their overwhelming support to ensure her victory in recent held elections. She said that Congress Governments had always given top priority to the development of tribal areas. She said that matter regarding installing TV tower at Killar and improvement in BSNL services in area would be taken up with the Central Government She thanked Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi to introduce the Food Security Act, which would ensure that nobody remains hungry in the country. 

Forest Minister Shri Thakuri Singh Bharmouri while welcoming the Chief Minister said that Pangi area of Chamba district remained neglected by the previous Government and people suffered a lot as many posts in various key departments remained vacant. He requested the Chief Minister to fill up the vacant posts of Pangi area on priority. He thanked the Chief Minister to sanction Rs. 30 lakh for the survey of Chehni tunnel. He also apprised the Chief Minister about various demands of the area. 

Tribal Advisory Council Member Shri Ram Charan Rana and Member BoD Forest Corporation Shri Subhash Chauhan also spoke on the occasion.

Advisor to Chief Minister Shri T.G. Negi, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister & Tribal Development Shri V.C. Pharka, Resident Commissioner Pangi Shri Inder Singh Bhardwaj and prominent persons of the valley were also present on the occasion. 

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Decisions

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet which met here today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh decided to frame a special policy for regularization of encroachments by the oustees in the New Bilaspur Township in the public interest. The maximum extent of land which may be regularized shall be upto 150 sqm only and same shall be on free hold basis. 

The Cabinet decided to revise and enhance the norms of relief under Himachal Pradesh Disaster Management and Relief Manual 2012. This will enhance the relief assistance provided to the disaster affected persons in the State.

The Cabinet gave its approval to upgrade the Nagar Panchayat Santokhgarh, Dehra, Jawalamukhi and Sujanpur as Municipal Council and upgrade their posts of Secretaries as Executive Officers.

It decided to move the case for FCA clearance of land to Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India (GoI) for the establishment of Central University in the State as per recommendation of the Site Selection Committee. 

The Site Selection Committee has recommended to develop both the campuses one at Dharamshala and other at Dehra in a phased manner. About 160 hectares of land at Dharamshala has been recommended for immediate development of the main campus of the University while 80 hectares at Dehra may be taken up in second phase.

The Cabinet gave its nod to upgrade Civil Hospital Nerva and Chopal in district Shimla to 50 bedded each with required staff.

It gave its approval to create 15 posts of various categories required for Police Station Sunni which was recently upgraded from Police Post Sunni to full-fledged Police Station in Shimla district. 

It approved to shift HPPWD Division No. II Shimla and HPPWD Sub Division Jutogh to Dhami.

The Cabinet approved the proposal of High Court of Himachal Pradesh for enhancement of pecuniary jurisdictions of all subordinate Courts in Himachal Pradesh by amending Himachal Pradesh Courts Act, 1976. This will enable citizens to take up their cases at the district level Courts. 

The Cabinet gave its permission to lease out Government land measuring 1540.37 sqm. comprised in Khasra No. 1380/645 and 1381/645 in Mohal Khaliar, Tehsil Sadar, District Mandi to the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan on token lease money of Rs. one per annum for 99 years in relaxation of rules. 

The Cabinet gave its nod to open a Tehsil Welfare Office at Haroli in district Una.

It approved construction of Irrigation and Public Health Department Rest House (Inspection Hut) at Sidhwari in district Kangra. 

The Cabinet also approved for the publication of amendments in Himachal Pradesh Forest (Timber Distribution to the Right Holders) Rules, 2010 in H.P. Rajpatra for inviting objections/suggestions from the general public. 

It approved to transfer back the control of 842.68 hectares of forests of Shimla Urban area from Municipal Corporation Shimla to Forest Department for its proper management.

The Cabinet approved to bring all statutory towns notified or likely to be notified under the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Act, 1994 and Urban Growth Centres under the ambit of Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act, 1977 to meet the directives of the Government of India and fulfill the conditionalities of mandatory reforms of JNNURM for ensuring funding under said Centrally Sponsored Programme. 

The Cabinet decided to fill up 100 posts of Punjabi and 100 posts of Urdu language Teachers on contract basis. 

It was decided to fill up two posts of Station Fire Officer, four posts of Sub Fire Officer alongwith 30 posts of Firemen through recruitment of trained Firemen on contract basis. 

The Cabinet decided to fill up 15 posts of Assistant Engineer (Civil) in Irrigation and Public Health Department through direct recruitment on contract basis. 

It also approved to engage a Consultant for designing and setting up of Emergency Operation Centre at the State level and 12 Districts Emergency Operations Centres in each district headquarter in the Revenue department for Disaster Management. 

The Cabinet approved to fill up 19 vacant posts of Inspector, Grade-I in Food and Civil Supplies Department through direct recruitment on contract basis. 

Committee to be Constituted for Speedy Execution of SHPs

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh said that a High Power Committee would be constituted under the chairmanship of Chairman H.P. Electricity Regulatory Commission to remove bottlenecks in execution on Small Hydro Electric Projects (SHPs) in Himachal Pradesh so that work on these could be expedited for their timely completion. The Committee would submit its report in a month. 

Chief Minister was speaking at the One Day Meet on ‘Speedy Development of Small Hydro Electric Power Projects in H.P,” organised by Bonafide Hydro Power Developers Association, H.P, in collaboration with HIMURJA & Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) GoI at Hotel Holiday Home, here today. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that Government intends to harness Hydro Power Potential speedily not only through SHPs but also by fast execution of medium and big hydel projects. He said that Government would facilitate all Independent Power Producers (IPP) and would take all necessary steps to harness power potential expeditiously. He said that High Power Committee would look into the problems of Small Hydro Power Developers and suggest recommendations to simplify the procedures of granting various clearances. He said that he was aware of problems being faced by the IPPs and in order to execute SHPs speedily the Committee would gave its suggestions which would be placed before the Cabinet. 

Chief Minister said that the Committee would recommend that all the clearances would be given in a specific period and concerned officers would be held responsible for any delay and laxity. He said that all sanctions and approval should be ensured in a stipulated time by the concerned authority. He said that Panchayats and local people should also cooperate with SHPs, as they 

would also be benefited by the projects. He said that IPPs should also take care of social responsibilities and be considerate towards the genuine demands of local people. 

Chief Minister said the State Government has given priority to harness the immense Hydro Power Potential in a time bound way. He said that SHPs are environmental friendly and cause least disturbance to the local population. He said that his Government had given priority to develop these projects on faster track, as they encourage Himachali entrepreneurship and provide wider and equitable distribution of opportunities for employment and development in the State. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that though Himachal was pioneer in the field of Hydro Power development, but much was needed to be done to exploit the Power Potential in a stipulated time. He said that he has always given priority to the power sector and it was during his previous tenure that Hydro Power Policy of H.P. was notified in the year 2006. 

MPP and Power Minister Shri Sujan Singh Pathania said that the Government was concerned about various problems being faced by the IPPs and would take effective steps to remove the hurdles. He said that State Government would facilitate the SHPs and unnecessary formalities would be done away and procedure of clearances would be simplified. He said that Government had started allotment of SHPs in 1995 when Shri Virbhadra Singh was Chief Minister. 

Shri Pathania said that incentives were given to the Himachalis under Power Policy-2006 by reserving the projects upto 2 MW exclusively for them. While allotting projects having installed capacity of 2 MW to 5 MW preferences was being given to the Himachalis. He said that it was difficult for the 

developers of small projects to sell and evacuate the power in open market therefore the HPSEB Ltd. should facilitate them by buying power from them.

Bonafide Hydro Power Developers Association, H.P. President Shri Rajesh Sharma apprised the Chief Minister about the problems and complications being faced by the SHPs in the State. He requested the Chief Minister to simplify the procedures for executing SHPs. He said that projects upto 5 MW should be allotted exclusively to the Bonafide Himachalis and priority should be given to Himachalis for projects from 5 MW to 25 MW. He said that instead of so many agencies, HIMURJA should be made sole agency to grant all approvals and clearances. 

SAI Engineering Foundation CEO Shri Raj Kumar Verma gave a presentation on Small Hydro Power Development in Himachal Pradesh, its problems and suggestions. He said that 475 SHPs of 1215 MW were allotted for execution since 1995-96 in the State, out of which only 59 projects having 225 MW capacity had been commissioned so far. He said that on an average about three projects of 12 MW werebeen completed per year and it would take more than 100 years to complete the allotted potential at this rate. He requested the Chief Minister to take appropriate action to remove the hurdles in order to expedite the commissioning of SHPs in the State. 

Independent Power Producer Shri Maan Singh Thakur presented vote of thanks. 

MLAs Sarv Shri Mansa Ram, Karan Singh, Karnesh Jung, Mayor Shri Sanjay Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Shri Tikender Panwar, Chairman, HP State Electricity Regulatory Commission Shri Subhash Negi, Principal Secretary MPP & Power and Non Conventional Energy Sources Shri K.Sanjay Murthy, Director SHPs MNRE GoI Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar Bhatt, HPPCL M.D. Shri D.K. Sharma, HIMURJA CEO Shri Bhanu Pratap Singh, other senior officers and Independent Power Producers were present on the occasion. 

Virbhadra struggling to restore Himachal's economy

Shimla, Sep 13 (IANS) Just eight-months-old, the Virbhadra Singh-led government has been struggling to bring Himachal Pradesh's derailed economy - largely dependent on tourism, horticulture and hydropower - back on track.

In a rare show of strength, Virbhadra Singh, who is in his sixth stint as chief minister, and his entire cabinet reached the doorstep of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh earlier this week. They lobbied hard to get central projects and schemes, particularly dealing with infrastructure and connectivity, sanctioned, besides timely release of funds for relief and restoration in the state's flood-affected areas.
"To show the urgency on the issue, Virbhadra Singh, who has been chief minister for over 16 years, for the first time in his political career took his entire cabinet to New Delhi," a senior minister said.
Virbhadra Singh's vast experience - in the state and in the central government - would definitely help in getting adequate central funding, the minister added.
Manmohan Singh on Monday assured the delegation that the centre would release adequate funds to the state from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for calamity relief and restoration in the flood-affected areas.
"The state as a whole experienced heavy rainfall and 69 lives have been lost. And 11,157 houses, 4,519 roads and 2,763 water supply schemes have been badly damaged in the flash floods," the chief minister told the prime minister.
Assuring all possible assistance from the centre, the prime minister said all the demands of the state government, like extension of an industrial package, special plan assistance and strengthening of the rail network will be considered positively by the central government in a time-bound manner.
Official sources said a day after meeting the prime minister, the chief minister and two of his cabinet colleagues - Kaul Singh and Mukesh Agnihotri - met Finance Minister P. Chidambaram in Delhi and demanded that a railway project linking Chandigarh with Himachal Pradesh's prominent Baddi industrial hub be declare as one of national importance.
Official sources told IANS that the state has sought a special financial package from the central government to overcome a whopping Rs.29,000 crore debt.
The state is also seeking liberal funding for central-aided projects in the ratio of 90:10, like special category northeastern states were getting, an official said.
Pleading the case at a conference of civil aviation ministers in Delhi Sep 10, Industries Minister Agnihotri, on behalf of the chief minister, demanded that Himachal Pradesh be included in the list of states were 50 new low-cost airports and 20 bigger airports are to be developed.
At present, no flight operates to any of the state's three airports.
Political observers say the chief minister's decision to take his entire cabinet to Delhi was a shrewd move to put pressure on the Congress party's top bosses.
The government has already been at the receiving end for its failure to get any major central project. There is even an abnormal delay in getting calamity relief from the centre, a political observer said.
"The only major benefit the state has got so far is the restoration of the centre's capital investment subsidy for industry," he added.
Union Commerce Minister Anand Sharma, who belongs to the state, announced this week in Shimla that the capital investment subsidy on plant and machinery would be extended till March 31, 2017 to accelerate the state's industrial growth.
In the assembly's just-concluded monsoon session, BJP leaders, including two-time chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal, said issues like development have been pushed to the background as registering fabricate cases against political opponents tops the government's agenda.
Another BJP leader and former revenue minister Gulab Singh said there was a difference in the relief being distributed to victims by the centre in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
To be fair to Virbhadra Singh, he has been credited with reforms in the education, social, infrastructure and power sectors during his previous stints as chief minister.

Via: http://in.news.yahoo.com/virbhadra-struggling-restore-himachals-economy-065003211--finance.html

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet led by Chief Minister called on Prime Minister

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet led by Chief Minister, Shri Virbhadra Singh called on Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh in New Delhi

Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh said that Centre Government would immediately release the adequate funds from National Disaster Response Fund to Himachal Pradesh for undertaking relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction works in flood affected areas of the State.

Himachal Pradesh Cabinet led by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh called on Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh at 7 Race Course, New Delhi and requested him to provide financial assistance from National Disaster Response Fund for relief and rehabilitation works in flood affected areas of the State.

Mrs. Ambika Soni, General Secretary All India Congress Committee also accompanied the delegation.

Chief Minister, Shri Virbhadra Singh told the Prime Minister that State had suffered massive losses due to heavy rainfall and requested the Central assistance under NDRF and Prime Ministers Relief Fund. He told that first installment of SDRF amounting to Rs. 68.12 crore was released by the Central Government in July 2013 and State Government had released its share of Rs. 15.14 crore. He said that total 129.24 crores had been released to various departments and district administration for providing immediate relief to the affected areas. He told that the State as whole experienced heavy rainfall which was 576% to 1358% above the normal rainfall during the 15-17 June 2013 and Kinnaur and Sirmour district were the worst affected. He told that total 69 human lives had been lost and 2427 animals have perished in the flash floods. He told that 11157 houses, 4519 roads, 2763 water supply schemes had been badly damaged in the flash floods.

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh requested the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh to restore the industrial package of the State till the year 2020 to remove regional disparity in the field of industrial development and create employment avenues to youths in the State. He told that Special Package to the industries was introduced in the year 2003 for the period of 10 years till March 2013. However the incentive of central excise duty was withdrawn in March 2010 and income tax incentive was withdrawn in March 2012. He told that the these incentives to Special Category States were not adversely affecting the industrial development of bigger States and told that about 16500 units in small, medium and large scale sector with the proposed investment of Rs. 48,830 crore having employment potential of 5,42,580 persons was approved between 6th January 2003 to 31st March 2013. However out of these approved units only 9,353 units with investment of Rs. 14,557 crore having employment potential of 1, 20,602 persons were actually set up in the State. He said that State Government had made massive investment to improve infrastructural facilities in industrial areas to facilitate the industrial investment.

Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh requested the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to release the full amount of Rs. 2,100 crore Special Plan Assistance to the State for financing the Annual Plan of Rs. 4,100 crore to speed up the pace of the development in the State. He requested SPA/SCA of Rs. 2,100 crore for the annual plan 2013-14 as the State had suffered huge loss due to adverse recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission. He said that Himachal Pradesh had got only 50 percent increase in the total devolution of funds by 13th Finance Commission over 12th Finance Commission in comparison to 126 percent increase to all other States and the State was deprived of additional transfer of Rs.10,725 crore during the award period of 13th Finance Commission between the year 2010-15 and requested to provide SPA/SCA to fund the State plans to compensate the State. Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh requested the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to provide uniform funding in the ratio of 90:10 in Centrally Sponsored Schemes for all Special Category States. He told that at present the funding under Sarv Shisha Abhiyan (65%), Mid Day Meal Scheme (75%), Indira Awas Yojna, Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (75%), Swaran Jayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojna(75%), Nutrition Component of ICDS (50%) and the Ambulance Service Under NHM (20%) is less for the Himachal Pradesh compared to other Special Category States in North East. He requested that funding pattern for all Special Category States should be exactly at par with North Eastern States and requested to issue guidelines to all Central Ministries to modify the guidelines for the existing schemes and adopt uniform norms for all Special Category States. Dr. Manmohan Singh sympathised with the flood victims of the State and said that the State had badly suffered in recent flash floods and assured all possible central assistance. He appreciated the relief and rehabilitation works done by State Government in restoring the normalcy in the flood affected areas.

Dr. Manmohan Singh assured the delegation that all the demands of the State Government like extension of Industrial Package, Special Plan Assistance, strengthening of Rail Network will be positively considered by the Central Government in time bound manner to increase the pace of the development in the region and fulfill the aspirations of the people from present Congress Government.

The delegation comprised of Smt. Vidya Stokes, Irrigation & Public Health and Horticulture Minister, Shri Kaul Singh Thakur Health and Family Welfare Minister, Shri G.S. Bali, Food & Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister, Shri Sujan Singh Pathania, Agriculture Minister, Shri Thakur Singh Bharmouri, Forest and Fisheries Minister, Shri Mukesh Agnihotri, Industries and Information & Public Relations Minister, Shri Sudhir Sharma, Urban Development Minister, Shri Prakash Chaudhary, Excise & Taxation Minister, Dr. (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil, Social Justice & Empowerment Minister, Shri Anil Sharma, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Minister, Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee, President, Shri Sukhvinder Singh Thakur and Dr. Shrikant Baldi, Principal Secretary Finance.

Himachal govt to buy Rs.70 lakh Mercedes for CM Virbhadra Singh

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Virbhadra Singh will soon add a full-size luxury crossover SUV Mercedes-Benz GL-Class to his official fleet of vehicles. The new high-tech car will have all the requisite security and technical requirements, official sources said in Shimla on Saturday.

The chief minister's office and the general administration department of the state secretariat have already approved the purchase of the vehicle.

"The order for the SUV will be placed shortly. Though a final price has not been quoted so far, the estimated price of the vehicle is Rs.70 lakh," Secretary (general administration) Subhasish Panda told Mail Today. The move, however, has not gone down well with Opposition BJP in the state. The party has criticised the CM's plan, saying the vehicle is being purchased at a time when the financial health of the state is in a shambles.

"While the common man is facing the burden of price rise, the state government is buying luxury cars for ministers and the chief minister. The state government has loaned Rs.2,300 crore in the past six months and there is no money left to pay the arrears of allowances to the employees. The government has not even spared the retired army personnel and is Opposition questions timing of purchase charging four per cent VAT on the goods sold through CSD canteens," former chief minister and Leader of Opposition Prem Kumar Dhumal told Mail Today.

Virbhadra has a Skoda, a Toyota Fortuner and a Toyota Camry among his official fleet of luxury cars. This is the very first time that a vehicle of this class is being purchased for a chief minister of Himachal Pradesh.

Former Union minister and six-time CM Virbhadra Singh is the second wealthiest politician in the state, after MLA from Palampur constituency and Vidhan Sabha Speaker Brij Behari Lal Butail who has assets worth Rs.169 crore.

Total current value of all movable and immovable assets, including bank deposits and cash owned by Virbhadra Singh, his wife Pratibha Singh and two dependents - son Vikramaditya Singh and daughter Aprajita Singh - is Rs.68.12 crore.

The total value of his property in 2009, when he had filed nomination for MP from Mandi constituency, was Rs.19.45 crore.

Virbhadra owns agriculture landholdings of at two places carrying a current value of Rs.80 lakh and also holds property worth Rs.18.78 crore.

He also owns 4,53,505 sq ft built-up property - Padam Palace - in Rampur . The heritage building, which is spread over 2.8 hectares, is valued at Rs.10 crore.

His Shimla residence - Holly Lodge - is valued at Rs.5 crore and the market value of his ancestral estate Shanti Kunj at Saharan is Rs.2 crore. The CM also owns a 1,500- sq m flat worth Rs.30 lakh in Delhi.


Courtesy: http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/himachal-govt-to-buy-rs-70-lakh-mercedes-for-cm-virbhadra-singh/1/308830.html

Governor confers Awards upon 19 teachers on Teacher’s Day

Governor confers Awards upon 19 teachers on Teacher’s Day
( Click to Zoom )

State level Teachers day function was organized at Raj Bhawan today. Smt Urmila Singh, Governor presided over the function. Sh Virbhadra Singh Chief Minister was chief guest on the occasion. Governor presented National Awards comprising of a cash prize of Rs 60,000 along-with a set of books and shawl to three teachers besides State Awards comprising of a cash prize of Rs 40,000, silver medal, cap, shawl, a set of books and certificate to 16 teachers on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Smt Urmila Singh stressed upon educating the girl child in order to bring about women empowerment in its true sense in the society. She said that women were the pillars of the society and they should be empowered for building a strong nation. She said that students should be sensitized about this since childhood so that they grow up as aware and responsible citizens. 

Smt Urmila Singh said that ideal environment should be created in schools so that every student gets ample opportunity to grow according to his or her interest and ability. Teachers should explore the potential of students and facilitate learning opportunities beyond the classroom for their overall development, she added.

Governor said that teachers were the backbone of the society as they shaped the destiny of pupils and were nation builders in true sense. She said that they influence the minds of students and were looked upon as role models. She said that teachers prepared students for facing the challenges in life and their work was not confined to mere classroom. She said that teachers should inspire students by setting up examples through their good conduct and learning.

She lauded the Guru-Shishya Parampara which uphold the importance of teacher and instilled the values like respect for teacher as well as elders. She said that such rich traditions should be maintained in modern times also.

Governor and Chief Minister paid rich tributes to former President, Philosopher and Educationist Dr S. Radhakrishnan for his valuable contributions towards the cause of education and on whose birth anniversary Teachers Day is celebrated. Governor also released a souvenir on the occasion.

Shri Virbhadra Singh, Chief Minister said on the occasion that the state government had opened Primary schools within a radius of 1.5 or 2 km across the State so that students could get education nearer to their homes. He said that the present government had ordered to reopen all the schools closed by the previous government and added that the objective of state government of achieving the cent percent target of education was not possible unless children get school facility nearer to homes. He said that Himachal Pradesh being a hill state with tough topography and harsh weather conditions especially in winters, it was necessary to provide school facility in every area even if there were less students.

Government to strengthen primary and elementary education: CM

Chief Minister stressed upon strengthening education at primary and elementary levels so that potential of the students could be explored to the maximum at higher education level and their base was strong. He expressed concern over discontinuation of examination system up to Elementary level and added that promoting to next class on the basis of assessment could prove harmful to the students in the long run as it hampered the interest of students in studies. He further said that examinations were essential for evaluating the education standards of students at every level as it was good for both students and teachers.

Shri Virbhadra Singh emphasized the need of instilling moral values besides teaching the importance of patriotism, nationalism, discipline among students so that they grew up as good citizens. He said they should be made aware of our constitution and principles laid in it. He said that during his previous tenure the preamble of Indian constitution was printed and displayed in schools and government offices. He ordered that they should be displayed again in all the educational institutions, libraries and government offices if already not been displayed. The State had achieved cent percent target of enrolment in elementary education and efforts were on to achieve the target of more than 60 percent enrolment in higher education. 

He said that presently more than 15,000 educational institutions were functioning in the State in government sector. The State Government had made a provision of Rs. 3836 crore for education sector for current year which was 18 percent of the total budget. He said that Netbooks would be given free of cost to 5,000 meritorious students of 10th and 12th class this year under Rajiv Gandhi Digital Student Yojna. To encourage meritorious students in the State, the Government had taken decision to give cash incentive of Rs. 75,000 to any student of Himachal Pradesh who got admission in prestigious institutions like IITs, IIMs and AIIMs. 

Shri Virbhadra Singh said that State Government was providing free travelling facility to all government school students in HRTC buses. He said that sincere efforts were being made to improving the quality of education in the State. The Government had taken decision of rationalization to fill the vacant posts of teachers in far-flung and hard areas of the State. He said that emphasis had been given on imparting training to the teachers. He said that efforts were being made to strengthen the basic infrastructure in the schools and making teaching child centric and activity based. 

Sh R.D.Dhiman, Principal Secretary Education welcomed the Governor and Chief Minister and detailed about the activities of the department.

Sh Dinkar Burathoki, Director Higher Education proposed vote of thanks.

A colourful cultural programme was also presented on the occasion.

Forest Minister Sh Thakur Singh Bharmouri, Excise and Taxation Minister Sh Prakash Chaudhry, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Education Sh Neeraj Bharti, Secretary to Governor Smt Anita Tegta, Sh Ashok Sharma Director Elementary Education, Awardee teachers, officers of state government and education department were present among others on the occasion.



List of Awardees :

• Shri Pradeep Singh, Lecturer, Mathematics, GSSS (Boys) Una,
• Shri Nek Ram, Shashtri, GSSS (Girls), Jogindernagar 
• Ms. Devika Rani, CHT GPS, Kinnu, District Una were honoured with National Awards for their outstanding services in the field of education. 

The State level Awards were given to -

• Shri Om Prakash Kaistha, Principal, GSSS, Jaidevi, District Mandi, 
• Shri Suresh Kumar Gautam, Headmaster, GHS, Talyahar, District Mandi, 
• Shri Krishan Chand, Lecturer, GSSS, Galore, District Hamirpur, 
• Shri Raj Kumar Kanwar, DPE, GSSS, Mawa Kaholan, District, Una, 
• Shri Ram Krishan, TGT, GSSS, Karsog, District Mandi, 
• Shri Nand Lal Sharma, TGT, GSSS, Gada Kufri, District Shimla, 
• Dr. Manohar Lal Awasthi, TGT, GHS, Menjha, District Kangra, 
• Shri Mohinder Singh, PET, GSSS, Delgi, District Solan, 
• Shri Mela Ram, PET, GSSS(Boys), Solan, 
• Smt. Neena Thakur Shastri, GMS, Pukhri, District Chamba, 
• Shri Yugal Kishore Gupta, JBT (CHT), GPS, Chhakoh, District Bilaspur, 
• Smt. Krishna Devi, JBT, GPS, Tawan (Balh), District Mandi, 
• Smt. Sita Devi, JBT (CHT), GPS, Takrela, District Bilaspur, 
• Shri Chuni Lal Sharma, JBT (CHT), GPS Rampur Bushar, District Shimla 
• Smt. Chandrawati, JBT (CHT), GPS, New Colony Jail Road, Mandi, District Mandi.