Key Decisions by Himachal Pradesh Cabinet

Vishal Rana, Hamirpur

In a significant move under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, during its meeting today, approved the recruitment of 2,061 Van Mitras in the state’s Forest Department. Notably, the condition of a 10-mark personal interview has been eliminated from the recruitment process.

Additionally, the Cabinet decided to create and fill 150 nursing staff positions at Dr. Radhakrishnan Government Medical College and Hospital, Hamirpur. Further, the creation of six Associate Professor posts and ten Assistant Professor posts in various departments, including General Medicine, Pediatrics, General Surgery, Orthopedics, Anesthesia, and Radiology, was also approved.

The Cabinet sanctioned the opening of a new Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) office in Nadaun, Hamirpur district, along with the creation of five positions to support its operations.

The establishment of a new fire station in Indora, Kangra district, was also approved, with 13 new positions to be filled for its smooth functioning. In Lahaul-Spiti district, a new police post will be set up in Shinkula under the jurisdiction of Keylong Police Station, with six posts being created.

In a crucial decision, the administrative control of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will now be transferred to the Additional Director General (Home Guards and Civil Defence) to enhance the force’s effectiveness in responding to disasters and emergencies. Additionally, the Cabinet gave approval for the deputation of Home Guards to the SDRF for up to two years to ensure its smooth operation.

To promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the Cabinet approved the expansion of EV charging stations across six green corridors in the state, inviting private stakeholders to participate in this initiative. Currently, 77 EV charging stations are operational along these green corridors.

The Cabinet also gave its nod to the establishment of automated vehicle testing stations equipped with advanced technology, with plans to set up five such stations across the state to provide enhanced services to citizens.

Moreover, under the chairmanship of Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, the Cabinet approved the recommendations of the Cabinet sub-committee regarding the 450 MW Shongtong Karchham Power Project. The company responsible for the project has been directed to ensure its completion by the 2026-27 fiscal year.

To assess the functioning of parking facilities in Shimla under the PPP model, the Cabinet sanctioned the formation of a sub-committee headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi. The committee will review key parking lots in the city, including Lift Parking, Chhota Shimla Parking, Sanjauli Parking, New Bus Stand Parking, and Tutikandi Parking.

In alignment with recent amendments to the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) 2023, the Cabinet decided to amend the state’s Eco-Tourism Policy of 2017 to promote and develop eco-tourism activities across Himachal Pradesh.

These wide-ranging decisions reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing public services, strengthening administrative structures, promoting eco-friendly initiatives, and fostering the state’s overall development. The reforms, especially in medical staffing, forest conservation, and infrastructure, are poised to have a lasting impact on the state’s growth trajectory.