Shimla, March 3,
The Himachal Pradesh Council of Ministers, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened today and approved several key decisions, including the Governor’s address, tabling of the CAG report, and replacing traditional Katha Bhatties with IBR (Indian Boiler Regulations) boilers.
The Cabinet approved the draft Governor’s address to be delivered on the inaugural day of the 8th session of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha on March 10, 2025. The address will outline the government’s policies, achievements, and roadmap for the future. Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned the presentation of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report for the financial year 2023-24 in the upcoming budget session.
To strengthen urban governance, the Cabinet approved the creation and filling of 145 posts across various municipal bodies. This includes 66 positions in newly upgraded Municipal Corporations, three in upgraded Municipal Councils, 70 in recently established Nagar Panchayats, and six in the Directorate of Urban Development. These appointments are expected to enhance administrative efficiency and service delivery in urban areas.
In the health sector, the Cabinet decided to create two posts of senior resident doctors in the Gastroenterology department at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties, Chamiana, Shimla. This move aims to improve specialized healthcare services in the state.
A significant decision was made regarding the Katha industry, which traditionally processes khairwood using age-old methods. The Cabinet approved the conversion of all conventional Katha Bhatties into IBR-compliant boiler units. As per the new regulations, all such units must register with the Chief Inspector of Boilers in the state. IBR boilers will be allowed to process khairwood with bark within a range of 5,435 to 7,500 quintals annually. The shift is aimed at improving efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting environmental sustainability.
The decision to enforce IBR standards is expected to bring modernization to the industry, ensuring safer and more energy-efficient operations. It also aligns with the government’s broader objectives of industrial reform and environmental conservation.
