Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves Major Administrative, Infrastructure, and Developmental Reforms.
Shimla:
In a key meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet cleared a host of significant policy decisions aimed at strengthening governance, improving infrastructure, and accelerating developmental activities across the state.
Regularisation of Part-Time Class-IV Workers
In a major labour welfare move, the Cabinet approved the conversion of part-time Class-IV workers serving in various government departments into daily wagers. The decision will benefit those who have completed seven years of continuous service by March 31, 2025.
Reorganization in the Forest Department
The Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department will be shifted from Shimla to the CPD KFW Project Office building in Dharamshala, Kangra district. Consequently, the CPD KFW Project Office will relocate to the former premises of the Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) in Dharamshala.
Jail Infrastructure Overhaul in Mandi District
The Cabinet approved the relocation of the District Jail from Mandi to a newly constructed facility at Nerchowk. The existing jail premises will be repurposed as an Open Jail for women inmates. To support this transition, requisite posts across various categories will be created and filled.
Digital Transformation in Revenue Courts
The Cabinet sanctioned the Himachal Pradesh Online Filing and Processing of Court Cases Rules, 2025, under the Revenue Department, enabling digital submission and processing of appeals, reviews, and petitions in Revenue Courts.
Empowering Rajya Chayan Aayog
The Cabinet empowered the Himachal Pradesh Rajya Chayan Aayog to determine examination fees for recruitment tests, streamlining the recruitment process and ensuring financial autonomy.
Planned Development in Special Areas
Development plans will be prepared for the Shri Chintpurni Special Area (Una), Sarahan Special Area (Shimla), and Bhota Planning Area (Hamirpur). These plans aim to control unplanned expansion and unchecked commercial activity along highways.
New Guidelines for Appointments and Committee Formation
The Cabinet approved updated guidelines regarding vacancy requisition, selection, and appointment procedures across government departments. A Cabinet Sub-Committee will be constituted to oversee these reforms in future appointments.
Boost to Public Transport
A total of 350 new stage carriage routes were sanctioned, along with additional extra routes for 18-seater tempo travellers to be operated by private parties, to improve rural and inter-town connectivity.
Strengthening Health and Forensic Services
Approval was granted to fill 81 posts of Medical Officers, including 68 Casualty Medical Officers, to enhance emergency and trauma care services in government medical institutions. Additionally, 18 FACT and FACT Plus professionals will be recruited in the Department of Forensic Services to improve criminal investigation capabilities.
Support for Agricultural Extension Services
The Cabinet approved the recruitment of 11 Subject Matter Specialists for various Krishi Vigyan Kendras to further agricultural knowledge dissemination and rural outreach.
Modern Commercial Complex in Shimla
A commercial complex featuring two high-rise buildings (14 and 17 storeys) will be developed at Mohal Chotta Shimla, Dehat Shimla. The project is expected to address rising administrative and commercial infrastructure demands with modern amenities and efficient design.
Jal Shakti Vibhag to Manage Rural Water Supply
The Jal Shakti Vibhag has been designated as the service provider for implementation and maintenance of drinking water schemes in rural areas, under the 15th Finance Commission.
Land Transfers for National Institutions
The Cabinet approved the transfer of 21-09 bighas of land in Mauja Changar Palasiyan for Phase-II and III expansion of AIIMS Bilaspur. Additionally, 52-17-00 bighas of land at Revenue Estate Sarol in Chamba district were transferred for the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya.
Nagar Panchayat Sunni Status Revoked
The earlier notification to upgrade Nagar Panchayat Sunni to a Municipal Council has been withdrawn, signaling a reconsideration of urban governance restructuring in Shimla district.
These wide-ranging decisions reflect the state’s focus on good governance, digital transformation, public welfare, and sustainable development.
