The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s leadership, has decided to establish a modern Cancer Care Centre at Dr Radhakrishnan Government Medical College in Hamirpur town. Additionally, the Cabinet has sanctioned the creation of 11 new departments and the necessary recruitment for various positions. Amendments to the Social Security (Pension and Allowance) Rule of 2010 were also approved to ensure timely disbursement of social security pensions.
The Cabinet has given the green light to adopt the National Policy on Geothermal Energy, aiming to facilitate the exploration and utilization of untapped geothermal energy resources in the state. It has designated the Directorate of Energy as the key agency for implementing this policy and has made modifications to the Swaran Jayanti Energy Policy of 2021 to include guidelines on geothermal energy.
Furthermore, the Cabinet has approved the introduction of an Ordinance to impose an ‘Orphan and Widow Cess’ on petrol and high-speed diesel during the initial sale in the state. This measure is intended to enhance welfare programs for orphans and widows without burdening consumers financially, ensuring sufficient funds for the effective execution of these schemes.
In a move towards enhancing the state’s hydroelectric power capacity, the Cabinet has allocated four hydroelectric projects up to 25 MW to successful bidders following the completion of the tendering process. These projects include the 6 MW Khauli-II, 24 MW Malana-III, 21.9 MW Manalsu, and 18 MW Dhancho projects.
Moreover, the Cabinet has approved the construction of a 4.3-km-long Naddi Zipline Project near Dharamsala in Kangra district, estimated at Rs 7.41 crore. Once completed, this zipline will be the longest in Asia and is anticipated to become a significant tourist attraction in the region.
To enhance healthcare services, the Cabinet has amended the Senior Resident Doctor Policy to allocate 66.66% of seats to in-service candidates and 33.33% to direct candidates. Additionally, the distribution of seats can be interchanged in case eligible candidates are unavailable in their respective categories.
Lastly, the Cabinet has given the go-ahead to fill 11 positions of Assistant Commissioner in the State Taxes and Excise Department.
