Is the Himachal Govt Offering 40% Subsidy to Tribal Youths for Buses?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 40% subsidy for tribal youths on buses.
- Four-month road tax exemption.
- Focus on employment opportunities in transport sector.
- Interest subsidy for solar power projects.
- Improvement of power supply in Pangi and Spiti.
Shimla, Dec 12 (NationPress) Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Friday that the state government will offer a subsidy of up to 40 percent to young individuals in tribal regions for the acquisition of buses and traveler vehicles. Additionally, there will be a four-month exemption from road tax.
During the 50th meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Tribal Advisory Council, he emphasized the government's commitment to fostering employment and self-employment in the transport sector within tribal areas. Furthermore, to encourage self-employment in the solar energy sector, an interest subsidy will be provided for setting up private solar power projects ranging from 250 kW to 1 MW.
CM Sukhu instructed officials to expedite the tender process for development projects in snow-covered regions, aiming to commence construction by March-April, once weather conditions permit. He mentioned that to address power supply challenges in Pangi and Spiti, solar power plants of 1.2 MW at Dhanwas in Pangi and 2 MW at Rong-tong in Spiti will soon be operational.
The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to initiate the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki-La, a matter that has been raised with the Central government. He indicated that steps are being taken to revive trade activities with Tibet.
According to CM Sukhu, the government's initiatives have led to development in tribal areas, which now exhibit higher prosperity compared to other regions of the state. The average per capita income in tribal districts surpasses that of other districts, reflecting both economic strength and favorable social indicators, including a better male-female sex ratio.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to safeguarding women's rights, particularly in tribal communities. He announced plans for a new road in Nigulsari, a critical point on National Highway 5 prone to landslides. Efforts are also underway to enhance connectivity in Kinnaur district.
He emphasized that resolving pending Nautor cases in tribal areas is a government priority.
The state Cabinet has already approved this proposal, which is now awaiting the Governor's endorsement. Under the Forest Rights Act of 2006, approximately 1,039 land titles have been distributed as of September. To facilitate residents of Kinnaur and Spiti, construction of a tribal bhawan in Rampur is ongoing, with another tribal bhawan in Nurpur set to be inaugurated soon.