In a series of progressive decisions aimed at promoting inclusive development, environmental stewardship, and administrative efficiency, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened in Shimla today to chart a forward-looking roadmap for the state.
The Cabinet greenlit the recruitment of 700 Home Guard Volunteers in the Home Guards and Civil Defence Department, a move set to bolster the state’s internal security infrastructure. Simultaneously, it approved the regularisation of services for 203 Panchayat Secretaries (Zila Parishad cadre) who have completed two years of contract service by March 31, 2025. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to recognising the dedication of grassroots administrators and providing them with secure employment avenues.
In a bid to streamline the medical education system, the Cabinet amended the Postgraduate/Specialist Services (PG/SS) Policy by withdrawing the mandatory one-year field posting prerequisite for eligibility for Senior Residency at the prestigious Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda. This progressive move aligns with the policy norms at AIIMS Chamiyana, ensuring parity and creating a seamless transition for aspiring medical professionals.
The state government’s focus on sustainability and waste management was highlighted through the introduction of the Deposit Refund Scheme 2025. Under this scheme, consumers will pay a refundable deposit for products such as glass bottles, plastic beverage containers, aluminium cans, and multilayered packaging, with the deposit refunded upon the return of the empty product. This pilot initiative aims to tackle non-biodegradable waste and promote a circular economy model.
In a significant administrative move, the Cabinet approved the relocation of the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) office from Shimla to Dharamsala, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency for stakeholders. Additionally, it granted in-principle approval for restarting the de-novo reservation roster for Panchayati Raj Institutions members and Chairpersons, echoing the commitment made in 2010 to strengthen grassroots democratic representation.
The Cabinet’s emphasis on environmental sustainability was underscored by authorising the Himachal Pradesh Forest Development Corporation to collect minor minerals and carry out dredging operations in forest-area rivers and ponds. This decision is designed to promote better resource management and safeguard ecological balance.
Recognising the need to enhance educational access, the Cabinet approved the bifurcation of the Elementary Education Block Ramshahar in Solan district by creating a new Elementary Education Block at Baddi. This move will be accompanied by the creation and filling of necessary posts to ensure efficient operation of the new block. Further, the re-organisation of the Development Blocks of Sulah, Bhawarna, and Lambagaon in Kangra district, along with Bhoranj in Hamirpur district, was approved to streamline governance and improve service delivery to local populations.
These wide-ranging decisions reflect the Himachal Pradesh government’s unwavering focus on empowering communities, modernising infrastructure, protecting the environment, and ensuring equitable growth across the state. Chief Minister Sukhu’s administration is clearly moving ahead with a vision of making Himachal Pradesh a model of progressive governance and sustainable development.
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