CM Sukhu Marks 62nd Birthday with Green Initiative, Welfare Outreach and Public Engagement.
Shimla:
The 62nd birthday of Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was celebrated with great enthusiasm and public participation at his official residence, Oak Over, on Thursday. People from diverse sections of society—including party workers, cabinet colleagues, officials and citizens—gathered in large numbers to extend their greetings and wish him good health, long life and continued leadership.
Marking the occasion with an eco-friendly gesture, the Chief Minister planted a sapling of Chinar tree within the premises of Oak Over, symbolizing his commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. His wife, Kamlesh Thakur, along with other family members, was present during the celebrations.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister flagged off a marathon organized by employees of the Himachal Pradesh Secretariat. The run began from the Secretariat premises and concluded at the iconic Christ Church, drawing enthusiastic participation from employees and residents.
Addressing the gathering, Sukhu emphasized that the State Budget presented by his government is people-centric and focused on the welfare and upliftment of the common man. He reiterated his government’s commitment to taking progressive and impactful decisions aimed at ensuring inclusive growth, prosperity and overall development of the State.
Highlighting the principles of good governance, the Chief Minister said the government is working with dedication and a spirit of service to ensure that welfare schemes benefit the last person in society. He also expressed concern over the abrupt discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG), calling it a rightful entitlement of Himachal Pradesh since 1952, and assured that the State would continue to strongly advocate for its restoration.
Underscoring the State’s contribution to the nation, Sukhu stated that Himachal Pradesh provides ecological services valued at nearly Rs. 90,000 crore annually. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to safeguard the State’s rights and interests and expressed optimism about achieving positive outcomes through sustained efforts.
The Chief Minister further noted that steps are being taken to strengthen financial discipline and improve fiscal management, the results of which would soon be visible. Stressing social security, he highlighted the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme for government employees, ensuring financial stability and dignity after retirement.
As part of the celebrations, Sukhu also distributed financial assistance to 18 women beneficiaries under the Himachal Pradesh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. Each beneficiary received Rs. 1 lakh as the first installment of a total assistance of Rs. 3 lakh, helping them move closer to building their own homes.
To commemorate the occasion, a blood donation camp and a boxing competition were organized at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex by the Himachal Pradesh Youth Congress and State Youth units, reflecting a spirit of service and youth engagement.
Several Ministers, MLAs, Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons of Boards and Corporations, along with senior civil and police officials, were present and extended their greetings to the Chief Minister on his birthday.
