Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves Hike in Remuneration for Panchayat Watchmen, Elected Representatives, Green Lights Filling of Over 100 Positions

The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet held a crucial meeting on Tuesday, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhhu, in the city of Shimla. The Cabinet made several significant decisions during the session.

Committee Formed to Explore Hydro Power Projects in the State

In a bid to promote renewable energy initiatives, the Cabinet established a committee under the chairmanship of the Secretary of Energy. This committee will delve into the prospect of installing hydro turbines on various energy projects throughout the state. Representatives from the departments of Energy, Finance, and Law will also be part of this committee.

Green Signal for Rajiv Gandhi State Model Day-boarding Schools

With an aim to enhance educational infrastructure, the Cabinet granted permission to commence construction activities for Rajiv Gandhi State Model Day-boarding Schools. The districts of Jwalamukhi and Fatehpur in Kangra, as well as Bhoranj in Hamirpur, have been approved for the establishment of primary-level schools. It is noteworthy that the Cabinet had previously given its nod for the establishment of similar schools in 13 locations across the state.

Approval for Filling Vacant Jail Warder Positions

Addressing the staffing needs of the Department of Prisons, the Cabinet approved the recruitment of 69 jail warders. Furthermore, the Cabinet also sanctioned the filling of 20 positions across various categories at the Nalagarh (Kishanpura) Sub Jail in Solan district.

Enhanced Honorarium for Elected Representatives and Panchayat Watchmen

In a significant move, the Cabinet decided to increase the monthly honorarium for temporary Panchayat watchmen, raising it from INR 6,200 to INR 6,700. This revision will benefit a total of 3,226 Panchayat watchmen in the state. The enhanced honorarium will come into effect from April 1, 2023. Additionally, the Cabinet also approved a raise in the remuneration of elected representatives of Panchayati Raj institutions. District Council Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons will receive an increment of INR 5,000, while members of the council will experience an increase of INR 500. Panchayat Samiti Chairpersons, Vice-Chairpersons, and members will also receive a raise of INR 500. It is worth mentioning that the remuneration for sewing instructors had already been increased, with the Cabinet giving its official approval during the meeting.