CM Stresses Shift from Relief-Centric to Resilience-Centric Governance; Launches Rs. 2,688 Crore HP-READY Project.
Shimla:
In a major step towards strengthening disaster preparedness and climate resilience, the Himachal Pradesh Government has launched the ambitious Himachal Pradesh Resilient Action for Development and Disaster Recovery (HP-READY) Project with an outlay of Rs. 2,688 crore. The initiative aims to build a robust disaster management framework across the state and enhance resilience against the growing threat of natural calamities.
The project will be implemented from January 2026 to November 2030 and is designed to strengthen disaster preparedness, mitigation and recovery systems while safeguarding lives, livelihoods and critical infrastructure.
Himachal Pradesh, owing to its fragile mountain ecosystem and increasing vulnerability to climate change, has witnessed a significant rise in extreme weather events in recent years. According to official data, the state has experienced more than 66 cloudbursts, 234 landslides and 121 flash floods over the past three years. These disasters have caused extensive loss of human lives and inflicted damage worth thousands of crores on public infrastructure and private property, besides disrupting normal life across several districts.
Recognizing the urgent need for a comprehensive and long-term strategy, the HP-READY Project seeks to restore and strengthen disaster-affected public infrastructure, including transport networks, water supply schemes, sanitation systems and power infrastructure in vulnerable and disaster-prone regions. The project will also focus on reviving livelihoods and employment opportunities affected by natural disasters.
A key component of the initiative is the development of a comprehensive disaster risk financing and insurance framework aimed at reducing economic vulnerabilities and ensuring quicker recovery following disasters. The project also envisages strengthening institutional capacities and establishing systematic financial mechanisms to support long-term disaster resilience.
Special emphasis will be placed on modernizing early warning systems, promoting disaster-resilient infrastructure, encouraging scientific land-use planning and enhancing community preparedness. The government plans to integrate technology, traditional knowledge and inter-departmental coordination to create a more effective disaster management ecosystem.
To strengthen preparedness at the grassroots level, specialized training modules will be introduced for Panchayati Raj Institutions, Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals and school children. These capacity-building initiatives are expected to foster a culture of disaster awareness and preparedness among communities while encouraging active participation in restoration and mitigation efforts.
The project also proposes the establishment of a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU) to ensure effective implementation, monitoring and evaluation of all project components.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters have underscored the need for a fundamental shift in governance priorities.
“Himachal Pradesh is ecologically fragile. The natural disasters witnessed during the last three years have compelled us to shift from relief-centric governance to resilience-centric governance. HP-READY is our roadmap to protect lives, livelihoods and developmental assets,” the Chief Minister stated.
He emphasized that the project reflects the government’s belief that “development without resilience is not sustainable.” He further said that vulnerable districts and communities would be given priority under the initiative, while efforts would be made to strengthen disaster management capabilities at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that HP-READY would help safeguard the state’s development gains from climate-related disruptions and establish a resilient framework capable of responding effectively to future challenges.
With climate change increasingly impacting mountain states, HP-READY is being viewed as a transformative initiative that could serve as a model for disaster-resilient development and sustainable governance in the Himalayan region.
