Synopsis
In a historic announcement, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has declared Pangi Valley as the state's first natural farming subdivision during the Himachal Day celebrations held in Killar, Chamba district. He also emphasized infrastructure improvements and sustainable agricultural initiatives.Key Takeaways
- Pangi Valley declared as Himachal's first natural farming subdivision.
- Rs 5 crore fund allocated for natural farming initiatives.
- Infrastructure projects to enhance transportation and power supply.
- Minimum support prices set for various crops and dairy products.
- One-time settlement policy for farmers introduced.
Chamba, April 15 (NationPress) For the first time, the state-level Himachal Day celebrations took place on Tuesday in the remote and scenic Killar area of Pangi Valley, located in Chamba district. Here, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu proclaimed it as the state's inaugural natural farming subdivision.
Notably, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was the first Prime Minister to visit Pangi back in 1984.
A significant crowd gathered at the helipad ground to witness and partake in the 78th Himachal Day festivities.
On this occasion, CM Sukhu extended his greetings to the public, recalling the tremendous contributions of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Y. S. Parmar, in achieving statehood for Himachal Pradesh.
During the event, CM Sukhu announced that improving the Udaipur-Killar road is a top priority for the government, and discussions have been held with the Union government, with the tender process nearing completion.
He instructed the administrations of Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba districts to complete all necessary procedures and accelerate the road construction work.
Additionally, he declared the Pangi subdivision as the state's first natural farming subdivision and approved a revolving fund of Rs 5 crore for this initiative.
Furthermore, he set a minimum support price of Rs 60 per kg for naturally grown barley and announced the establishment of a milk processing plant in Pangi.
To enhance power supply in the valley, he mentioned that the government is working on projects worth Rs 62 crore.
He confirmed that Rs 5 crore is allocated for laying an 11 KV line from Tindi to Shaur and announced Rs 45.50 crore for installing a 33 KV line from Thirot to Killar.
Considering the distinct challenges of the region, he assured adequate funds for constructing Mahila Mandal bhawans and announced that Sach will be designated as a sub-tehsil.
To enhance transportation services, he declared 20 new bus permits for the valley, along with a 40 percent subsidy on bus purchases and a four-month exemption from road tax.
Moreover, the Chief Minister revealed plans to open a Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School in Pangi Valley and upgrade the Civil Hospital in Killar to an Adarsh Swasthya Sansthan.
He announced a 50 percent waiver on registration fees for homestays and allocated Rs 1.5 crore for improving link roads in the valley.
CM Sukhu noted that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had a profound connection with the Pangi valley and was the first PM to visit in 1984, after which regional development accelerated.
"This reflects the Congress government's dedication to tribal area development," he stated.
He highlighted that the government has endeavored to revive the economy by amending policies and laws, leading to substantial improvements in Himachal Pradesh's financial status.
Thus far, the government has fulfilled six out of ten guarantees and has taken numerous actions to bolster the rural economy.
The government is offering a minimum support price for milk, as well as for wheat, maize, and turmeric produced through natural farming.
A total of 1.58 lakh farmers practicing natural farming have been certified in the state.
CM Sukhu indicated that under the Agriculture Interest Subvention Scheme, a one-time settlement policy will be introduced this year via banks to assist farmers facing potential land auctions.
Under this policy, farmers will have the opportunity to repay agricultural loans of up to Rs 3 lakh, with the government covering 50 percent of the interest.
He added that the MSP for milk has been raised, with the government now purchasing cow milk at Rs 51 per litre and buffalo milk at Rs 61 per litre. Prior to this, the Chief Minister hoisted the national flag and received a ceremonial salute.
A parade was conducted, showcasing six contingents led by Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ravi Nandan. The male contingent of the Second Indian Reserve Battalion, stationed in Sakoh, was led by Assistant Sub-Inspector Satyanath Walia, while the female contingent was led by his counterpart Pooja Sood, the Himachal Home Guards contingent by Khushi Ram, and the Chamba district traffic police contingent by Assistant Sub-Inspector Ravinder Kumar.
