Shimla:

 In a significant series of decisions, the State Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened today to address various developmental and administrative matters across Himachal Pradesh.

1. Expansion of Kangra Airport:

   – The Cabinet approved the declaration of land acquisition and compensation for families affected by the expansion of Kangra Airport.

2. Bulk Drug Park in Una District:

   – The State will provide capital cost for constructing a Bulk Drug Park in Haroli Assembly constituency, Una district. The tender for this project has been approved.

3. Green Area Expansion in Shimla:

   – Additional areas including Retreat, Mashobra, Band Tukda Andri, Shiv Mandi Andri, Tal and Giri, D.P.F. Khalini, B.C.S. Mist Chamber, and Parimahal will now fall under the ambit of Green Area in the Shimla Development Plan.

4. Educational and Personnel Enhancements:

   – Creation and filling of 486 posts of Lecturer Physical Education and 157 supernumerary posts of Principal School Cadre in the Education Department.

   – 245 posts of Special Educators will be filled to cater to the needs of children with special needs.

   – Creation of 30 posts in different categories for H.P. Rajya Chayan Aayog Hamirpur, along with 30 posts of JOA (IT) in the Public Works Department.

5. Healthcare and Infrastructure Development:

   – Establishment of a Department of Cardiology at Dr. Radhakrishnan Government Medical College, Hamirpur, with the creation and filling of three key positions.

   – Procurement of PET scan machines for IGMC Shimla and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, and a Spect Scan Machine for IGMC Shimla to enhance medical diagnostic capabilities.

6. Other Notable Approvals:

   – Amendment of H.P Motor Vehicles Rules, 1999, mandating the submission of receipts for two Bureau of Indian Standards-certified protective headgears for registering two-wheelers.

   – Setting up of a ropeway from taxi parking to Baba Balak Nath Temple Deothsidh in district Hamirpur for improved pilgrimage facilitation.

   – Rationalization of provisions for Zero Electricity Bill for domestic consumers, restricting subsidy to ‘One Family One Meter’ and linking electricity connections with Aadhar-seeded Ration Cards.

7. Special Recognitions and Welfare Measures:

   – Launch of the ‘Himachal Pradesh State Award for School Teachers Scheme, 2024’ to honor exceptional contributions of teachers.

   – Creation of a dedicated State Fund for the welfare of persons with disabilities.

8. Legal and Administrative Reforms:

   – Recommendation for the premature release of 16 prisoners serving life sentences.

   – Approval to continue the MoU for operating flights between Shimla and Dharamshala daily.

9. Government Servant Benefits:

   – Approval of child care leave for a maximum of 730 days for female government servants with children having a minimum disability of 40 percent.

These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, education, healthcare, and governance across Himachal Pradesh, aiming for inclusive growth and welfare. The Cabinet’s resolutions are expected to impact various sectors positively, fostering sustainable development and improved public services.