Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, July 28
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has approved a comprehensive relief package for people affected by recent natural disasters across the state. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting at the state Secretariat. The financial assistance aligns with the 2023 model and includes ₹7 lakh for individuals whose homes were completely destroyed, and ₹1 lakh for partially damaged structures. Homeowners will receive ₹70,000 for loss of household items, while tenants are entitled to ₹50,000. Compensation will also be provided for damaged farmland and livestock loss.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi told reporters the relief will apply beyond Mandi district, covering all disaster-affected areas in Himachal Pradesh. “The government remains committed to delivering timely aid to those in need,” he said.
In a move aimed at preserving examination integrity, the Cabinet approved a bill that proposes up to three years’ imprisonment for those involved in leaking or facilitating the leak of examination papers.
To address shortages in medical personnel, the Cabinet cleared an increase in sanctioned posts for anesthesiologists and radiologists at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla—from 10 to 50. Approval was also granted to operationalise PET scan services at the IGMC cancer hospital, with infrastructure and equipment already in place.
On the environmental front, the Cabinet gave the go-ahead to the Rajiv Gandhi Forest Conservation Scheme, which promotes afforestation and employment. Women and youth groups planting trees on forest land will receive initial financial aid of ₹1.40 lakh. Additional incentives will be based on sapling survival rates.
The slew of decisions highlights the Himachal Pradesh government’s focus on disaster recovery, exam reform, public healthcare, and sustainable development.
