Expansion of Kangra airport, Four lane planning area, exam to taken by HPPSC: Cabinet decisions
Shimla, June 19
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened today to address several important issues affecting the state. In a series of significant decisions, the Cabinet took steps to curb unregulated construction activities along major highways, enhance educational opportunities, and improve infrastructure. Here are the key highlights.
Regulation of Four Lane Highways: To combat the rampant unauthorized construction along major highways including Parwanoo-Shimla Highway NH-5, Shimla-Matour NH, Pathankot-Mandi NH, and Kiratpur-Manali Highway NH-3, the Cabinet decided to establish a Four Lane Planning Area. This move aims to control and plan construction activities within 100 meters on both sides of the four-lane highways. Additionally, all future four-lane highways will also fall under this regulatory ambit, ensuring better urban planning and development.
Examinations by H.P. Public Service Commission: The Cabinet approved the conduct of examinations for post codes previously unexamined by the erstwhile Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission, Hamirpur. This step ensures a fair and transparent recruitment process through the H.P. Public Service Commission, fostering efficiency and meritocracy in public service appointments.
Expansion of Kangra Airport: Recognizing the significance of Kangra as a potential tourism hub, the Cabinet gave the go-ahead for the land acquisition process to expand Kangra Airport. The expansion project aims to extend the runway length to 3010 meters, enabling the operation of A-320 type aircraft. This development aligns with the government’s vision to position Kangra as the “Tourism Capital” of the state, attracting more visitors and boosting economic growth.
Mukhya Mantri Vidyarthi Protsahan Yojana 2023: The Cabinet approved the guidelines for the Mukhya Mantri Vidyarthi Protsahan Yojana 2023. Under this scheme, financially disadvantaged students will have access to loans of up to Rs. 20 lakh at a nominal interest rate of one percent. The loans will support their pursuit of engineering, medical, management, para-medical, pharmacy, nursing, ITI and polytechnic courses, as well as Ph.D. programs from recognized universities and educational institutions. This initiative aims to promote higher education and empower students from economically weaker sections.
Cabinet Sub Committee Formation:To address concerns related to School Management Committees (SMCs) and Computer Teachers, the Cabinet established a sub-committee comprising Education Minister Rohit Thakur, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh. This committee will investigate and propose solutions to the challenges faced in these areas, ensuring the effective functioning of SMCs and addressing the needs of computer teachers.
Also read: Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Allows Habitable Attic Floors
Opening of Government Degree College:In a bid to expand educational opportunities, the Cabinet approved the establishment of Government Degree College in Tauni Devi, Hamirpur district. This initiative will provide students in the region with access to quality higher education, empowering them with knowledge and skills for future success.
Upgradation of Police Chowki Bir to Police Station: Recognizing the need for improved security measures, the Cabinet decided to upgrade Police Chowki Bir in Kangra district to a full-fledged Police Station. Additionally, it sanctioned the creation and filling up of 10 posts across various categories, bolstering the police force and ensuring better law enforcement in the area
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