The Himachal Pradesh government has announced plans to recruit 1,000 police constables and 500 assistant forest guards, aiming to generate employment for educated youth in the state.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that 50 percent of the forest guard positions will be reserved for individuals recruited under the ‘Van Mitra’ scheme. This significant employment drive was a key outcome of a state Cabinet meeting held on Friday, chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Beyond recruitment, the state Cabinet also made substantial decisions to bolster the rural economy and enhance service delivery across various departments. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for several key agricultural produce was increased. Wheat procurement price has been raised from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg, while maize will now fetch Rs 50 per kg, up from Rs 40. Barley from Pangi Valley in Chamba district will see an increase from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg. The MSP for raw turmeric has been significantly enhanced from Rs 90 to Rs 150 per kg. For produce cultivated through natural farming methods, ginger will now be purchased at Rs 30 per kg.
In a move to leverage renewable energy potential, the Cabinet approved the allotment of 71 small hydroelectric projects. These projects will be allocated to eligible independent power producers in adherence to the state’s Hydro Power Policy, established in 2006. This initiative is expected to contribute to the state’s energy security and economic development.
To address staffing gaps in crucial administrative roles, the government will engage retired officials from the Revenue Department. The decision includes the appointment of eight Naib Tehsildars, 20 Kanungos, and 44 Patwaris on a fixed remuneration basis to serve within the Forest Department. Furthermore, approvals have been granted for the appointment of 10 legal consultants who will serve across the state’s territorial circles, strengthening legal support mechanisms.
Recognizing the need for experienced faculty in emerging medical institutions, the Cabinet has sanctioned the engagement of retired professors for new medical colleges. These appointments will fill critical positions in both clinical and non-clinical specialities, ensuring the quality of medical education and patient care.
In an effort to improve service delivery within the Jal Shakti Department, the administrative setup of its divisions in Sirmaur district will be reorganised. The restructuring will be based on a constituency-wise approach, aiming for more efficient and targeted service provision to the populace.
To ensure the timely and consistent disbursement of social security pensions, amendments have been approved for Rules 10(2) and 10(3) of the Himachal Pradesh Social Security (Pension/Allowance) Rules, 2010. These changes are intended to streamline the pension distribution process for eligible beneficiaries across the state.
The Cabinet also focused on improving regulatory processes by approving a simplification of the fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) process. This initiative aims to create a more streamlined and citizen-friendly system, thereby promoting ease of doing business and enhancing overall fire safety standards within the state.
In a unique initiative to inspire youth towards military service, the state government has decided to engage Honorary Captain Sanjay Kumar, a recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military award for valour. He will be engaged from May 1 onwards to motivate the state’s youth to join the Indian Army, serving as a role model and ambassador for defence recruitment drives.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
