Did the Himachal Cabinet Approve Amendments to the Compassionate Job Policy with Priority for Widows?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has approved amendments to the Compassionate Employment Policy, focusing on widows and parentless individuals. The annual income limit has been raised, and new initiatives for nursing education and women's rights in the workforce are also on the agenda.
Key Takeaways
- Compassionate Employment Policy amendments prioritize widows and parentless individuals.
- Annual income limit increased to Rs 3 lakh.
- Women can now work night shifts for gender equality.
- Expansion of nursing education with additional seats.
- Flight operations on Shimla-Dharamsala route extended until June 30, 2026.
Shimla, July 30 (NationPress) The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has formally approved revisions to the current Compassionate Employment Policy, prioritizing widows and parentless candidates under 45 years of age, as well as dependents of government officials who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
According to the updated policy, the annual income eligibility limit for families has been raised from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh.
Furthermore, in scenarios where positions under the existing five percent quota for such appointments are filled, the Cabinet has allowed a one-time relaxation of the quota to accommodate eligible candidates, as stated in an official announcement.
Additionally, the Cabinet resolved to increase the number of B.Sc. nursing seats at Sister Nivedita Government Nursing College in Shimla from 60 to 100.
Approval was also granted for the establishment of a new B.Sc Nursing College at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda, Kangra district, with an annual intake of 60 seats. The creation and filling of 27 various posts has also been sanctioned.
Women workers will now be permitted to work night shifts in shops and commercial establishments from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. to promote gender equality.
Moreover, maternity benefits will be extended to every female employee working in these establishments, in accordance with the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961.
A Cabinet Sub-Committee, led by Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, was formed to oversee the development of a Medical Device Park covering 300 acres in Nalagarh, with a report to be submitted within two months.
The Cabinet also approved an extension of the agreement with Alliance Air Aviation Limited for flights on the Shimla-Dharamsala-Shimla route until June 30, 2026.
In addition, the Cabinet sanctioned the cancellation of 172 small hydro projects below five megawatts under HIMURJA, where construction had been delayed, with plans to re-advertise these projects.
A uniform free power royalty of 12 percent will also apply, alongside an additional one percent for the Local Area Development Fund for all future hydro projects under five MW.
The Cabinet approved the cancellation of 22 hydroelectric projects above five MW, where implementation agreements were not signed, previously allocated by the Directorate of Energy.
A committee will be constituted to negotiate out-of-court settlements with 14 project developers for the refund of the principal upfront premium, without interest.
Finally, to support the expansion of Gaggal Airport in Kangra, a one-year extension until August 16, 2026 has been granted under Section 26 of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that the amendments to the Compassionate Employment Policy reflect a progressive step towards inclusivity. The focus on marginalized groups such as widows and parentless individuals demonstrates the government's commitment to welfare and equality.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes have been made to the Compassionate Employment Policy?
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has increased the annual income eligibility limit from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh and prioritized widows and parentless applicants under 45.
Will women be allowed to work night shifts?
Yes, the Cabinet has permitted women workers to engage in night shifts from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. to promote gender equality.
How many B.Sc nursing seats will be available?
The number of B.Sc nursing seats at Sister Nivedita Government Nursing College will increase from 60 to 100.
What is the duration of the flight agreement with Alliance Air?
The flight agreement for the Shimla-Dharamsala route with Alliance Air has been extended until June 30, 2026.
What is the status of small hydro projects under HIMURJA?
The Cabinet has canceled 172 small hydro projects below five megawatts due to stalled construction work.
