Himachal Cabinet Provides Extended Aid for Fire-Affected Community

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Special relief package extended for fire-affected families in Tandi village.
- Financial compensation includes Rs 7 lakh for total loss, Rs 1 lakh for partial loss, and Rs 50,000 for cowsheds.
- Monthly rental assistance of Rs 5,000 until June 30.
- Research on cannabis cultivation initiated.
- New robotic surgery facilities approved for medical institutes.
Shimla, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has announced an extension of the special relief package initially launched for families affected by disasters in 2023, now including those impacted by the recent fire in Tandi village, located in the Kullu district.
Families who suffered total loss of their homes will receive Rs 7 lakh, while those with partial damages will be granted Rs 1,00,000. Additionally, a compensation of Rs 50,000 will be allocated for any lost cowsheds.
Furthermore, a monthly housing rental support of Rs 5,000 will be provided to these families until June 30.
The Cabinet has also resolved to explore cannabis cultivation through a pilot program, which will be collaboratively researched by Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya in Palampur and Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture in Nauni, as stated in an official announcement.
This study aims to assess and propose future guidelines for cannabis cultivation.
In addition, the Agriculture Department has been appointed as the lead department for this initiative.
The Cabinet sanctioned the acquisition of advanced machinery and equipment for robotic surgeries at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS) in Chamiyana, Shimla, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda, Kangra, with a budget of Rs 56 crore, modeled after AIIMS, New Delhi.
Moreover, the Cabinet approved modifications to a prior order from the Forest Department, permitting the extraction of berberis roots (kashmal) until February 15.
Additionally, forest products collected from open areas before January 4 will be allowed for transport until February 15, in line with the HP Forest Produce Transit (Land Routes) Rules, 2013.
The Cabinet also gave the green light for establishing a ropeway between the Kullu bus stand and the Peej paragliding point, aiming to enhance tourist access.
It decided to fill nine vacancies for Block Development Officers within the Department of Rural Development.
Additionally, a reorganization of the PWD National Highway Circle in Shahpur was approved, creating two new divisions at Nankhadi and Kholighat, along with the Kharahan section.
The Cabinet has authorized the acquisition of 24 air-conditioned super luxury buses for the state-operated Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) to improve its services.
Moreover, it has approved 100 motorbikes for the field offices of the State Taxes and Excise Department to ensure enhanced enforcement and surprise inspections.