The Himachal Pradesh government has initiated a significant welfare scheme, the ‘Mukhya Mantri Apna Parivar Sukhi Parivar Yojna’, aimed at providing monthly financial assistance to eligible women across the state. Under this new program, women aged between 18 and 59 years will receive ₹1,500 per month. The scheme also includes a provision for 300 units of free electricity for beneficiary families.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that approximately 3.5 lakh women have been identified as eligible for this scheme. This initiative builds upon previous government efforts, which had already seen an increase in financial aid for women over 59 years of age, with their assistance being enhanced from ₹1,050 to ₹1,500 monthly.
The decision to launch the ‘Mukhya Mantri Apna Parivar Sukhi Parivar Yojna’ was a key outcome of a recent Cabinet meeting. During the same meeting, the state Cabinet also addressed matters concerning inter-state resource sharing and youth engagement. A uniform state policy was adopted to govern and periodically revise the rates for the sale of surplus raw water to neighbouring states, government agencies, and industries.
This new water policy establishes an initial benchmark rate of ₹100 per 1,000 cubic feet. This rate will apply to all ongoing and future projects within the state, including those that involve water sharing across state borders. The policy outlines a mechanism for periodic revision of these rates, which will be linked to the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) to ensure adjustments align with economic fluctuations.
In addition to the financial and resource management initiatives, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet also gave the green light for the statewide launch of the ‘Khelo Himachal Chitta Mukt Abhiyan-2026’. This campaign is designed to be implemented across all 12 districts of the state. Its primary objective is to foster a healthier and more active lifestyle among the youth by encouraging participation in sports activities.
The ‘Khelo Himachal Chitta Mukt Abhiyan-2026’ aims to strengthen the state’s ongoing efforts to prevent drug abuse. By promoting sports, the initiative seeks to instill discipline, encourage positive community engagement, and offer a constructive alternative for young individuals. The campaign’s implementation across all districts signifies a broad-based approach to drug prevention and youth development.
The financial assistance component of the ‘Mukhya Mantri Apna Parivar Sukhi Parivar Yojna’ is expected to benefit a significant portion of the female population in Himachal Pradesh. The provision of ₹1,500 per month aims to provide a measure of economic support, contributing to the financial well-being of eligible women and their families. The inclusion of free electricity units further aims to alleviate household expenses.
The policy on raw water pricing reflects the state’s approach to managing its water resources and inter-state agreements. By setting a clear benchmark rate and a mechanism for revision, the government seeks to ensure fair compensation for the use of its water resources while maintaining a consistent policy framework for all stakeholders. This move is also intended to provide clarity and predictability for existing and prospective projects.
The launch of the ‘Khelo Himachal Chitta Mukt Abhiyan-2026’ underscores the government’s commitment to addressing drug-related issues among the youth. The integration of sports and physical activities is seen as a crucial element in promoting a healthy lifestyle and diverting young people from the risks associated with substance abuse. The campaign’s extended timeline until 2026 suggests a sustained effort and a long-term vision for its impact.
The identified beneficiaries for the financial assistance scheme will be determined based on specific eligibility criteria to be detailed by the government. The comprehensive nature of the scheme, encompassing both financial aid and free electricity, indicates a multi-faceted approach to social welfare. The initiative is poised to have a considerable impact on the economic landscape for many households in Himachal Pradesh.
The state’s decision to implement a uniform raw water pricing policy is a strategic move towards better resource management and inter-state cooperation. The WPI-linked revision mechanism is designed to ensure that the rates remain relevant and equitable over time, taking into account inflationary pressures. This policy will govern transactions with entities outside the state as well as within.
Furthermore, the ‘Khelo Himachal Chitta Mukt Abhiyan-2026’ is expected to foster a sense of community and healthy competition among the youth. By organizing sports events and creating platforms for athletic development, the government hopes to channel the energy and potential of young people into productive pursuits, thereby contributing to a drug-free society.
The Chenab Times News Desk
