Grand Celebrations Mark 79th Himachal Day at Reckong Peo; CM Sukhu Announces Major Welfare, Infrastructure Boost for Kinnaur.
Reckong Peo:
Himachal Pradesh celebrated its 79th Himachal Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour on Wednesday, with the state-level event held at Reckong Peo in Kinnaur district. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at an impressive march past, symbolizing the spirit and unity of the hill state.
The parade, led by DSP Umeshwar Rana, featured contingents from the 6th Indian Reserve Battalion, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), District Police Kinnaur, 2nd Indian Reserve Battalion (Women), Home Guards, Traffic Police, SDRF, and NCC units from local educational institutions, along with bands that added ceremonial grandeur to the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister extended greetings to the people of the state and paid rich tributes to Himachal’s first Chief Minister Yashwant Singh Parmar and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for their pivotal role in shaping the state.
Major Announcements for Kinnaur
Highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive development, Sukhu announced a monthly financial assistance of Rs. 1,500 for all eligible women in Kinnaur under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana. He also unveiled an ambitious plan to introduce geothermal-based central heating systems in Reckong Peo, covering government institutions, schools, and households—an initiative aimed at improving living conditions in the cold desert region.
To strengthen infrastructure, the Chief Minister sanctioned Rs. 8 crore for the construction of a tunnel to connect Taranda village and announced the upgradation of Choltu High School to a Senior Secondary School under CBSE curriculum. He further declared that the Polytechnic College currently operating in Rohru would soon be shifted to Urni in Kinnaur.
Connectivity, Energy and Border Development
Sukhu highlighted key connectivity projects, including the approval of the Nigulsari-Bhavanagar road and the launch of heli-taxi services between Reckong Peo and Shimla, facilitated by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi. He also announced the commencement of the 66 KV Pooh-Kaza transmission line project, worth Rs. 415 crore, benefiting thousands in Kinnaur and Spiti.
In a significant development, he stated that border trade through Shipki-La with China is set to resume from June 1, and efforts are underway to restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via this route, boosting border tourism and local livelihoods.
Relief for Employees and Police Personnel
Providing relief to government employees, the Chief Minister announced the withdrawal of the 3 percent salary deferment for Class I and II officers. He also assured that pending dues of retired Class IV employees would be cleared by May.
In a morale-boosting step, Sukhu declared that eligible non-gazetted police personnel would be granted one honorary rank higher upon retirement, recognizing their dedicated service.
Focus on Economy, Farmers and Healthcare
Addressing fiscal challenges due to the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants, Sukhu emphasized financial discipline while ensuring no burden on the common man. He highlighted major gains in the rural economy, including increased MSP for milk, wheat, maize, turmeric, and other crops under natural farming.
He also announced support for fishermen, reduced royalty rates, and a first-of-its-kind horticulture policy expected to generate over 82,000 jobs.
In healthcare, the government is expanding advanced facilities such as robotic surgery, PET scans, MRI, and mammography services across multiple districts, reducing dependency on out-of-state treatment.
Education and Tourism Push
The Chief Minister said that 151 government schools would be affiliated with CBSE to improve enrollment and quality education. He also announced infrastructure development worth Rs. 150 crore each at religious sites like Jwalamukhi and Naina Devi to promote tourism.
The event concluded with vibrant cultural performances showcasing the rich traditions of Himachal Pradesh. Senior officials, public representatives, and local residents attended the event in large numbers, making it a memorable celebration of the state’s progress and unity.
