Himachal Cabinet meeting: COMs approve Pilot Study for Cannabis cultivation, ropeway project in Kullu
Old cabinet photo. Used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Jan 24,
The study, will evaluate and propose a roadmap for the future of cannabis cultivation in the state, informed a official media note. Adding, that the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened in Dharamshala, Kangra district, to approve a series of significant decisions aimed at fostering development, aiding disaster-affected families, and promoting innovative projects.
Relief for disaster-affected families
The cabinet extended the 2023 special relief package for disaster-affected families to those impacted by the fire incident in Tandi village, Kullu district. Families with completely damaged houses will receive ₹7 lakh, partially damaged houses ₹1 lakh, and ₹50,000 for damaged cowsheds. Additionally, affected families will be provided ₹5,000 as monthly house rental assistance until June 30, 2025.
Healthcare modernization
To strengthen healthcare infrastructure, the cabinet approved the procurement of robotic surgery equipment for AIMSS Chamiyana in Shimla and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda, Kangra. The advanced machinery, costing ₹56 crore, will follow the model of AIIMS, New Delhi.
Boosting tourism and transportation
In a move to enhance tourism, a ropeway project between Kullu Bus Stand and Peej Paragliding Point was approved, ensuring smooth and safe transportation for visitors. The state also sanctioned 24 air-conditioned super luxury buses for HRTC to improve passenger services.
Environmental and forestry measures
The cabinet amended previous forest department orders, permitting the extraction of berberis roots (Kashmal) until February 15, 2025. Transportation of forest produce collected from open spaces before January 4, 2025, will also be allowed under the HP Forest Produce Transit Rules, 2013.
Administrative and educational reforms
The cabinet approved bringing Class-III and Class-IV posts in DC offices, divisional commissioners’ offices, and other departments under the State Cadre to ensure uniformity in governance. Additionally, Government College Seema, Shimla, was renamed Raja Virbhadra Singh Government College Seema, and other educational institutions were renamed to honor prominent figures.
Infrastructure expansion and employment
The reorganization of the PWD National Highway Circle Shahpur was approved, with the creation of two new divisions in Nankhadi and Kholighat and the Kharahan Section. The cabinet also sanctioned the recruitment of nine Block Development Officers for the Department of Rural Development.
Enforcement upgrades
To enhance enforcement operations, 100 motorbikes will be provided to field offices of the State Taxes and Excise Department for better monitoring and surprise checks.
The cabinet also discussed the revival of stalled hydro projects and the restructuring of directorates in the education department during a detailed presentation. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, supporting citizens, and boosting economic growth in Himachal Pradesh.
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