News Analysis India

Tag: Himachal Pradesh

  • Meet Vikramaditya Singh, The Himachal Congress Leader Who Defied Party To Attend Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha In Ayodhya |

    AYODHYA: In a surprising move, Vikramaditya Singh, a prominent Congress leader and minister in the Himachal Pradesh government, went against his party’s official stance on the Ram Temple inauguration. Despite top Congress leaders boycotting the event, Singh visited the holy city of Ayodhya to partake in the auspicious ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol on Monday.

    A Lone Stand: Himachal Pradesh Declares Half-Day Amid Congress Resistance

    Interestingly, Himachal Pradesh, the sole Congress-ruled state, took a distinctive step by declaring a half-day for all state government workers, showcasing a unique departure from the party’s overall stance.

    Vikramaditya Singh: The Rebel Congress Leader Who Became A ‘State Guest’ In UP

    Vikramaditya Singh, the son of current Himachal Congress chief Pratibha Singh, made headlines as he reached Lucknow from Chandigarh on Sunday. Despite being a Congress leader, he was treated as a ‘state guest’ by the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government.

    ‘Once-In-A-Lifetime’ Opportunity: Singh On Ayodhya Visit

    Earlier on January 8, Singh expressed that attending the Ayodhya ceremony was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” This came amidst the Congress top brass deciding to stay away from the event, denouncing it as a ‘BJP/RSS event.’

    Congress Leaders Shun Ayodhya Invite

    On January 10, senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury declined the invitation, citing the BJP’s attempt to score political points with the ceremony. The Congress labelled the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony as an “RSS and BJP event,” emphasizing their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment while respecting the sentiments of Lord Ram’s devotees.

    Vikramaditya Singh: Political Scion’s Background And Journey

    Vikramaditya Singh, born in 1989, represents the Shimla Rural constituency as an MLA. Hailing from a political family, he is the son of the late ex-CM Virbhadra Singh, and his mother, Pratibha Singh, currently serves as the MP from Mandi and is the state Congress chief.

    A post-graduate in History from St Stephen’s College, Delhi, Singh served as the chief of the state youth Congress from 2013 to 2017. With two consecutive victories in the elections of 2017 and 2023, he continues to make a mark in Himachal Pradesh politics.

    PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

    The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the ‘aarti’ of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed ‘parikrama’ of the deity and did ‘dandvat pranam’. He also took blessings from ‘sadhus’.

    The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

    Presence Of Distinguished Dignitaries

    RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting ‘Jai Sri Ram’ along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple’s construction.

    Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

    The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

    The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

    Innovative Construction Methods

    The Mandir’s foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

    Modern Amenities In Traditional Ambiance

    The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture. 

  • Water levels on the rise in Himachal dams as flash floods ravage North India

    Express News Service

    CHANDIGARH/DEHRADUN:  As the gushing waters from rivers, drains and barrages batter the north-western belt of the country, the Central Water Commission (CWC) on July 13 revealed that the water levels in the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams in Himachal Pradesh are almost double than the normal for this time of the year. The combined storage of these three dams is 97 per cent above the last 10-year average.

    The water level in Thein Dam in Punjab, too, is 64 per cent more than the decade-long average. At least 108 persons have died, an equal number of people injured and at least a dozen are missing due to rain-related incidents and road accidents since the onset of monsoon on June 24 till July 13.

    The bodies of people killed in flash floods are being recovered in Kullu and Mandi districts. So far 53 landslides and 22 flashfloods have hit the state, as per the data released today evening by the Himachal emergency operations centre. The state is likely to get heavy rain at isolated places till July 18 and the MeT office has issued a yellow alert.

    The CWC data says the total combined capacity of the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams is 12.475 billion cubic metres (BCM) and at present the storage is 7.606 BCM. Last year at this time it was 2.265 BCM and the average storage has been 3.855 BCM.

    While yesterday the water level at Bhakra was 497.18 meters against the reservoir level of 512.06 meters. Thus the reservoir of the dam is filled up to 56 per cent of its total capacity this year compared to 21 per cent at the same time last year. The average of the last 10 years is 37 per cent.

    The picture is no different at the Pong dam as the water level at the dam was 416.22 m yesterday against the total level of 423.67 meters, thus 67 per cent of the dam is full compared to 15 per cent at the same time last year.

    Sources said due to heavy rains in the catchment areas of these dams, the inflow into these dams had been extraordinarily high since last week. The authorities had decided not to release excess water from these dams as already there is a heavy water influx in rivers and streams downstream and many areas are flooded.

    The Bhakra Beas Management Board is monitoring the situation and a decision to release additional water from these dams would be taken in consultation with the partner states depending on the level of inflows and the demand for water, said sources. The Himachal police are now focusing on inaccessible areas and low mobile connectivity to trace stranded persons. “Rescue operation is on,’’ said officiating DGP Satwant Atwal.

    Inflows into dams due to rain in catchments

    The CWC data says the total combined capacity of the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams is 12.475 billion cubic metres (BCM). At present, the storage is 7.606 BCM. Last year at this time, it was 2.265 BCM and the average storage was 3.855 BCM.

    Status of dams

    On Thursday, water level at Bhakra was 497.18 metres against reservoir level of 512.06 metres
    How much it is full: Dam reservoir is filled up to 56 per cent of its total capacity
    How was it last year: 21 per cent at the same time. Average for last 10 years is 37 per cent
    The picture is no different at the Pong dam as the water level at the dam was 416.22 m on Thursday against the total level of 423.67 metres

    CHANDIGARH/DEHRADUN:  As the gushing waters from rivers, drains and barrages batter the north-western belt of the country, the Central Water Commission (CWC) on July 13 revealed that the water levels in the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams in Himachal Pradesh are almost double than the normal for this time of the year. The combined storage of these three dams is 97 per cent above the last 10-year average.

    The water level in Thein Dam in Punjab, too, is 64 per cent more than the decade-long average. At least 108 persons have died, an equal number of people injured and at least a dozen are missing due to rain-related incidents and road accidents since the onset of monsoon on June 24 till July 13.

    The bodies of people killed in flash floods are being recovered in Kullu and Mandi districts. So far 53 landslides and 22 flashfloods have hit the state, as per the data released today evening by the Himachal emergency operations centre. The state is likely to get heavy rain at isolated places till July 18 and the MeT office has issued a yellow alert.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });

    The CWC data says the total combined capacity of the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams is 12.475 billion cubic metres (BCM) and at present the storage is 7.606 BCM. Last year at this time it was 2.265 BCM and the average storage has been 3.855 BCM.

    While yesterday the water level at Bhakra was 497.18 meters against the reservoir level of 512.06 meters. Thus the reservoir of the dam is filled up to 56 per cent of its total capacity this year compared to 21 per cent at the same time last year. The average of the last 10 years is 37 per cent.

    The picture is no different at the Pong dam as the water level at the dam was 416.22 m yesterday against the total level of 423.67 meters, thus 67 per cent of the dam is full compared to 15 per cent at the same time last year.

    Sources said due to heavy rains in the catchment areas of these dams, the inflow into these dams had been extraordinarily high since last week. The authorities had decided not to release excess water from these dams as already there is a heavy water influx in rivers and streams downstream and many areas are flooded.

    The Bhakra Beas Management Board is monitoring the situation and a decision to release additional water from these dams would be taken in consultation with the partner states depending on the level of inflows and the demand for water, said sources. The Himachal police are now focusing on inaccessible areas and low mobile connectivity to trace stranded persons. “Rescue operation is on,’’ said officiating DGP Satwant Atwal.

    Inflows into dams due to rain in catchments

    The CWC data says the total combined capacity of the Bhakra, Pong and Kol dams is 12.475 billion cubic metres (BCM). At present, the storage is 7.606 BCM. Last year at this time, it was 2.265 BCM and the average storage was 3.855 BCM.

    Status of dams

    On Thursday, water level at Bhakra was 497.18 metres against reservoir level of 512.06 metres
    How much it is full: Dam reservoir is filled up to 56 per cent of its total capacity
    How was it last year: 21 per cent at the same time. Average for last 10 years is 37 per cent
    The picture is no different at the Pong dam as the water level at the dam was 416.22 m on Thursday against the total level of 423.67 metres

  • Himachal sets up committee to study legalising cannabis cultivation

    By PTI

    SHIMLA: A five-member committee has been set up in Himachal Pradesh to study the issue of legalising cannabis cultivation, and it would submit a report within a month.

    The committee of MLAs was set up by Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on the advice of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

    The Committee, headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, would have chief parliamentary secretaries (CPS) Sunder Singh, and three other MLAs — Hans Raj, Puran Chand Thakur and Janak Raj — as members.

    The committee would submit its report on use, misuse and other aspects of cannabis cultivation within one month.

    The decision to constitute the committee was taken after a discussion on a resolution moved by Puran Chand Thakur (BJP).

    Replying to the discussion, Sukhu said the government would take an appropriate decision after getting full information on the medicinal use of leaves and seeds of cannabis.

    The committee would visit the places where illegal cultivation of cannabis is rampant before submitting its report, Sukhu said, adding the Union government has permitted cultivation of cannabis in some districts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

    Cannabis cultivation is being done in Uttarakhand also, he said.

    Earlier, moving the resolution, Puran Chand Thakur said that legalising cannabis cultivation would improve the economy of rural areas and also increase the revenue of the state.

    Sunder Singh Thakur(Congress) said that the demand for legalising cannabis cultivation had been made in the past also and permission should be granted for cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes.

    SHIMLA: A five-member committee has been set up in Himachal Pradesh to study the issue of legalising cannabis cultivation, and it would submit a report within a month.

    The committee of MLAs was set up by Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on the advice of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

    The Committee, headed by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, would have chief parliamentary secretaries (CPS) Sunder Singh, and three other MLAs — Hans Raj, Puran Chand Thakur and Janak Raj — as members.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });

    The committee would submit its report on use, misuse and other aspects of cannabis cultivation within one month.

    The decision to constitute the committee was taken after a discussion on a resolution moved by Puran Chand Thakur (BJP).

    Replying to the discussion, Sukhu said the government would take an appropriate decision after getting full information on the medicinal use of leaves and seeds of cannabis.

    The committee would visit the places where illegal cultivation of cannabis is rampant before submitting its report, Sukhu said, adding the Union government has permitted cultivation of cannabis in some districts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

    Cannabis cultivation is being done in Uttarakhand also, he said.

    Earlier, moving the resolution, Puran Chand Thakur said that legalising cannabis cultivation would improve the economy of rural areas and also increase the revenue of the state.

    Sunder Singh Thakur(Congress) said that the demand for legalising cannabis cultivation had been made in the past also and permission should be granted for cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes.

  • Himachal govt decides to adopt orphaned kids

    By Express News Service

    CHANDIGARH:  Himachal Pradesh cabinet in its second meeting today decided that the orphan children, referred to as ‘children of the state’ will be adopted by the state government which will refurbish the existing shelter schemes, orphanages and old-age homes under the ‘Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana.’

    The Rs 101-crore scheme will cover orphans and also those staying with their relatives, specially-abled children, destitute women as well as senior citizens.

    The government said the facilities under the Yojana will include common rooms, smart classes and coaching rooms, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a music room, and other modern amenities. To provide quality education for the children living in orphanages, adequate coaching will also be given.

    CHANDIGARH:  Himachal Pradesh cabinet in its second meeting today decided that the orphan children, referred to as ‘children of the state’ will be adopted by the state government which will refurbish the existing shelter schemes, orphanages and old-age homes under the ‘Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana.’

    The Rs 101-crore scheme will cover orphans and also those staying with their relatives, specially-abled children, destitute women as well as senior citizens.

    The government said the facilities under the Yojana will include common rooms, smart classes and coaching rooms, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, a music room, and other modern amenities. To provide quality education for the children living in orphanages, adequate coaching will also be given.

  • Himachal staff selection panel staff involved in paper leaks in past

    By PTI

    SHIMLA: The forensic examination of electronic devices recovered by the Vigilance department investigating the leak of an exam paper has indicated that the Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission employees were involved in recruitment scams in the past too, an official said on Monday.

    The department is investigating the leak of a paper held in December for the post of Junior Office Assistant (Information Technology).

    The Vigilance department has recovered question papers, financial transactions, voice recordings and chats from mobile phones, laptops, hard drives, and other electronic documents found on people under its scanner, which indicates that papers were leaked in the past also, an official told PTI requesting anonymity.

    Regional forensic laboratory, Dharamshala — the only forensic lab in the state recognised by the Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology — has screened 75 per cent of the devices and submitted the report to the investigation agencies probing the case.

    The paper leak was unearthed on December 23, 2022 when the vigilance arrested a senior assistant of HPSSC Uma Azad with a solved question paper and Rs 2.5 lakh in cash.

    So far, eight people — Uma Azad, her sons (Nikhil Azad and Nitin Azad), tout Sanjeev and his brother Shashi Pal, and Neeraj, Ajay Sharma, and Tanu Sharma have been arrested in the case.

    ALSO READ | Paper leak row rages on in Rajasthan as BJP demands CBI Probe

    The state government had suspended the functioning of the HPSSC over the recruitment exam paper leak and postponed all exams scheduled to be held in near future, stating it appears that the commission has not discharged its duties and responsibilities objectively and its credibility has been eroded.

    After the scam was unearthed, the Vigilance department received several complaints of irregularities in previous exams conducted by the HPSSC.

    The Vigilance department officers have said that enquiries have been initiated to further verify alleged malpractices in 10-20 exams held in the past.

    SHIMLA: The forensic examination of electronic devices recovered by the Vigilance department investigating the leak of an exam paper has indicated that the Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission employees were involved in recruitment scams in the past too, an official said on Monday.

    The department is investigating the leak of a paper held in December for the post of Junior Office Assistant (Information Technology).

    The Vigilance department has recovered question papers, financial transactions, voice recordings and chats from mobile phones, laptops, hard drives, and other electronic documents found on people under its scanner, which indicates that papers were leaked in the past also, an official told PTI requesting anonymity.

    Regional forensic laboratory, Dharamshala — the only forensic lab in the state recognised by the Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology — has screened 75 per cent of the devices and submitted the report to the investigation agencies probing the case.

    The paper leak was unearthed on December 23, 2022 when the vigilance arrested a senior assistant of HPSSC Uma Azad with a solved question paper and Rs 2.5 lakh in cash.

    So far, eight people — Uma Azad, her sons (Nikhil Azad and Nitin Azad), tout Sanjeev and his brother Shashi Pal, and Neeraj, Ajay Sharma, and Tanu Sharma have been arrested in the case.

    ALSO READ | Paper leak row rages on in Rajasthan as BJP demands CBI Probe

    The state government had suspended the functioning of the HPSSC over the recruitment exam paper leak and postponed all exams scheduled to be held in near future, stating it appears that the commission has not discharged its duties and responsibilities objectively and its credibility has been eroded.

    After the scam was unearthed, the Vigilance department received several complaints of irregularities in previous exams conducted by the HPSSC.

    The Vigilance department officers have said that enquiries have been initiated to further verify alleged malpractices in 10-20 exams held in the past.

  • Himachal govt woman employee arrested for leaking JOA (IT) exam paper

    By PTI

    HAMIRPUR: A woman employee of the Himachal Pradesh State Staff Selection Commission was arrested from Hamirpur district for allegedly leaking the paper of the junior office assistant JOA (IT) examination, officials said.

    The woman was on the radar of the Vigilance Department for a long time. Acting on a tip-off, the house of the woman was raided on Friday and she was caught selling paper of JOA(IT), they said.

    During the search of her house, the Vigilance Department sleuths recovered Rs 2.50 lakh and confiscated a computer there, the officials said.

    About one and a half lakh candidates have applied for the examination, scheduled to be held on December 25 (Sunday).

    Assistant Superintendent of Police, Vigilance, Renu Sharma was supervising the entire operation and was also at the house of the arrested employee during the raid, the officials said. This is not the first time that a paper of a recruitment examination has been leaked in the hill state.

    Earlier this year, a constable recruitment examination paper too was leaked. The paper leak had shocked the state. As many as 253 people were arrested during the course of investigation and chargesheets were filed against over 181 accused.

    The CBI is now probing the case.

    HAMIRPUR: A woman employee of the Himachal Pradesh State Staff Selection Commission was arrested from Hamirpur district for allegedly leaking the paper of the junior office assistant JOA (IT) examination, officials said.

    The woman was on the radar of the Vigilance Department for a long time. Acting on a tip-off, the house of the woman was raided on Friday and she was caught selling paper of JOA(IT), they said.

    During the search of her house, the Vigilance Department sleuths recovered Rs 2.50 lakh and confiscated a computer there, the officials said.

    About one and a half lakh candidates have applied for the examination, scheduled to be held on December 25 (Sunday).

    Assistant Superintendent of Police, Vigilance, Renu Sharma was supervising the entire operation and was also at the house of the arrested employee during the raid, the officials said. This is not the first time that a paper of a recruitment examination has been leaked in the hill state.

    Earlier this year, a constable recruitment examination paper too was leaked. The paper leak had shocked the state. As many as 253 people were arrested during the course of investigation and chargesheets were filed against over 181 accused.

    The CBI is now probing the case.

  • New CM Sukhvinder, his deputy Mukesh brace for a bumpy road in Himachal Pradesh

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: The decisive move on new leadership in Himachal Pradesh notwithstanding, the Congress has its task cut out in the hill state as it faces the twin challenge of keeping factional fighting at bay and delivering on ambitious poll promises.

    Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and his deputy will be bracing for a bumpy ride ahead, with the first hurdle being the cabinet formation that reflects the interests of competing pressure groups in the party, principally the one led by incumbent state chief Pratibha Singh.

    Allocation of portfolios would be the immediate vexatious issue for the party, with supporters of Virbhadra Singh already feeling sidelined after the elevation of the late chief minister’s professed rival Sukhu.

    Virbhadra Singh’s wife Pratibha Singh may have made all the right noises to start with, but it remains to be seen what bargain she strikes in order to satisfy her camp.

    The buzz is that she has sought a meaty portfolio for her son Vikramaditya Singh, who returned to the assembly from Shimla Rural. Sources in the party said the top leadership has agreed to make Vikramaditya Singh a senior minister in the state cabinet.

    Organisational unity challenge apart, the Congress government in the state would need to hit the ground running and deliver on the manifesto promises, which appeared to have struck a chord with the voters.ALSO READ | Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu: A fighter who rose through the ranks

    The uphill task would be to generate finances for the range of promises which, all put together, would entail an expenditure of around Rs 10,000 crore annually on the part of the state government.

    How Sukhu and his team achieve this will be closely watched considering Himachal’s massive debt burden of around Rs 65,000 crore till March 31, 2002.

    With the state’s finances already under stress, the CAG has also warned that the state government utilised 74.11 per cent of borrowed funds for the repayment of previous borrowings (principal) and 25.89 per cent for capital expenditure.

    As per the CAG’s latest report tabled in the state assembly for 2020-21, around 39 per cent of the debt (amounting to around Rs 25,000 crore) is payable in the next two to five years.

    Implementing the lofty promises made by Congress is going to be a challenging task, including providing one lakh jobs in the first year and a total of five lakh jobs in the five-year term. The immediate task would, however, be to fill the state’s 62,000 vacancies in various government departments, which will also push up the employee cost.

    The promise of giving Rs 1500 to every adult woman in the state would entail Rs 5,000 crore expense annually. Coupled with that the promise of free power of up to 300 units to every household will entail expenses of another Rs 2,500 crore annually while catering to around 15 lakh households, the sources said.

    As per the budget estimates for 2022-23, the total receipts and cash expenditure are estimated at Rs 50,300.41 crore and Rs 51,364.76 crore respectively. The Revenue Deficit in 2022-23 for Himachal is likely to be Rs 3,903.49 crore and the Fiscal Deficit is expected to be Rs 9,602.36 crore.

    The restoration of the old pension scheme, which has been the biggest promise that helped the party romp home to power, is also a challenging task considering that other Congress-ruled states of Rajasthan and Chattisgarh have not been able to implement them.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    Though Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that there will be no hindrance to the development of Himachal Pradesh even though the BJP lost power there, getting funds liberally from the BJP-ruled Centre may also be difficult for the Congress.

    On Saturday, Sukhu said all stakeholders will be taken on board while taking important decisions. “We want to change the system. Give me some time. We need to work hard to bring in a new system and new thinking,” he said.

    The Congress made several ambitious promises ranging from a free once-in-four-year pilgrimage for all elderly to a dedicated budget for the promotion of religious tourism in every assembly constituency, as the manifesto included a stand-alone segment titled – “Devsthan and Tirth Yatras” (Temples and Pilgrimages).

    The loftiest promise in this section is a pledge of free pilgrimage to any shrine of choice for all elderly in the state. Congress promised to foot the bill for such a trip every four years. It included a provision for attendants to accompany the elderly on such trips.

    A “Dev Bhumi Vikas Nidhi”, a fund that entails dedicating budgeting for each assembly constituency to promote religious tourism, has also been promised.

    The Congress had made ten promises to the people of Himachal Pradesh which include the restoration of the old pension scheme in its first meeting of the state cabinet, besides giving Rs 1500 to all adult women in the state.

    It also sought to woo the poor by promising 300 units of free power to all households and five lakh jobs to the youth. The party also pledged to form a Rs 680-crore StartUp fund that would include Rs 10 crore for each of the 68 assembly constituencies to provide self-employment opportunities to youths.

    The 52-page ‘Pratigya Patra – Himachal, Himachaliyat aur Hum’ also promised a special budget to MLAs to promote religious tourism, one job per family to those affected by power projects and urban MGNREGA jobs to the unemployed.

    NEW DELHI: The decisive move on new leadership in Himachal Pradesh notwithstanding, the Congress has its task cut out in the hill state as it faces the twin challenge of keeping factional fighting at bay and delivering on ambitious poll promises.

    Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and his deputy will be bracing for a bumpy ride ahead, with the first hurdle being the cabinet formation that reflects the interests of competing pressure groups in the party, principally the one led by incumbent state chief Pratibha Singh.

    Allocation of portfolios would be the immediate vexatious issue for the party, with supporters of Virbhadra Singh already feeling sidelined after the elevation of the late chief minister’s professed rival Sukhu.

    Virbhadra Singh’s wife Pratibha Singh may have made all the right noises to start with, but it remains to be seen what bargain she strikes in order to satisfy her camp.

    The buzz is that she has sought a meaty portfolio for her son Vikramaditya Singh, who returned to the assembly from Shimla Rural. Sources in the party said the top leadership has agreed to make Vikramaditya Singh a senior minister in the state cabinet.

    Organisational unity challenge apart, the Congress government in the state would need to hit the ground running and deliver on the manifesto promises, which appeared to have struck a chord with the voters.ALSO READ | Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu: A fighter who rose through the ranks

    The uphill task would be to generate finances for the range of promises which, all put together, would entail an expenditure of around Rs 10,000 crore annually on the part of the state government.

    How Sukhu and his team achieve this will be closely watched considering Himachal’s massive debt burden of around Rs 65,000 crore till March 31, 2002.

    With the state’s finances already under stress, the CAG has also warned that the state government utilised 74.11 per cent of borrowed funds for the repayment of previous borrowings (principal) and 25.89 per cent for capital expenditure.

    As per the CAG’s latest report tabled in the state assembly for 2020-21, around 39 per cent of the debt (amounting to around Rs 25,000 crore) is payable in the next two to five years.

    Implementing the lofty promises made by Congress is going to be a challenging task, including providing one lakh jobs in the first year and a total of five lakh jobs in the five-year term. The immediate task would, however, be to fill the state’s 62,000 vacancies in various government departments, which will also push up the employee cost.

    The promise of giving Rs 1500 to every adult woman in the state would entail Rs 5,000 crore expense annually. Coupled with that the promise of free power of up to 300 units to every household will entail expenses of another Rs 2,500 crore annually while catering to around 15 lakh households, the sources said.

    As per the budget estimates for 2022-23, the total receipts and cash expenditure are estimated at Rs 50,300.41 crore and Rs 51,364.76 crore respectively. The Revenue Deficit in 2022-23 for Himachal is likely to be Rs 3,903.49 crore and the Fiscal Deficit is expected to be Rs 9,602.36 crore.

    The restoration of the old pension scheme, which has been the biggest promise that helped the party romp home to power, is also a challenging task considering that other Congress-ruled states of Rajasthan and Chattisgarh have not been able to implement them.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    Though Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that there will be no hindrance to the development of Himachal Pradesh even though the BJP lost power there, getting funds liberally from the BJP-ruled Centre may also be difficult for the Congress.

    On Saturday, Sukhu said all stakeholders will be taken on board while taking important decisions. “We want to change the system. Give me some time. We need to work hard to bring in a new system and new thinking,” he said.

    The Congress made several ambitious promises ranging from a free once-in-four-year pilgrimage for all elderly to a dedicated budget for the promotion of religious tourism in every assembly constituency, as the manifesto included a stand-alone segment titled – “Devsthan and Tirth Yatras” (Temples and Pilgrimages).

    The loftiest promise in this section is a pledge of free pilgrimage to any shrine of choice for all elderly in the state. Congress promised to foot the bill for such a trip every four years. It included a provision for attendants to accompany the elderly on such trips.

    A “Dev Bhumi Vikas Nidhi”, a fund that entails dedicating budgeting for each assembly constituency to promote religious tourism, has also been promised.

    The Congress had made ten promises to the people of Himachal Pradesh which include the restoration of the old pension scheme in its first meeting of the state cabinet, besides giving Rs 1500 to all adult women in the state.

    It also sought to woo the poor by promising 300 units of free power to all households and five lakh jobs to the youth. The party also pledged to form a Rs 680-crore StartUp fund that would include Rs 10 crore for each of the 68 assembly constituencies to provide self-employment opportunities to youths.

    The 52-page ‘Pratigya Patra – Himachal, Himachaliyat aur Hum’ also promised a special budget to MLAs to promote religious tourism, one job per family to those affected by power projects and urban MGNREGA jobs to the unemployed.

  • Himachal: Sukhvinder Sukhu sworn in as CM, Mukesh Agnihotri takes oath as Dy CM

    By Online Desk

    SHIMLA: Congress leader Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu became the 15th Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, while fellow party leader Mukesh Agnihotri took oath as his deputy at a ceremony held in Shimla on Sunday.

    The duo were sworn in by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. 

    Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and party President Mallikharjun Kharge were all present at the ceremony. 

    Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Chhatisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda were also in attendance at the swearing-in ceremony.

    Sukhu, a grassroots politician who rose through the ranks, is a four-time MLA from Nadaun and the head of the election campaign committee in the recently concluded assembly elections which saw Congress return to power in the hill state. ALSO READ | Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu: A fighter who rose through the ranks

    Meanwhile, his deputy,  Mukesh Agnihotri is a five-time MLA from Haroli and the leader of the opposition in the outgoing Himachal Assembly.

    Sukhu said that he is happy that despite being from an ordinary family he is going to be the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.

    “I am happy that I am going to be CM despite being from an ordinary family. I am thankful to the Congress party and the Gandhi family for giving me this opportunity. My mother never stopped me from being in politics. I have reached here today because of her blessings,” said Sukhu.

    The Congress wrested power from the BJP in the hill state winning 40 of the 68 assembly seats. The polling was held on November 12 and the results were declared last Thursday.

    Several leaders including state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, the wife of former Himachal Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, and their son Vikramaditya Singh, who also won his election, were also in contention for the CM and Dy CM’s post.

    This was the first state election since the demise of Virbhadra Singh in July 2021.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from ANI)

    SHIMLA: Congress leader Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu became the 15th Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, while fellow party leader Mukesh Agnihotri took oath as his deputy at a ceremony held in Shimla on Sunday.

    The duo were sworn in by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. 

    Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and party President Mallikharjun Kharge were all present at the ceremony. 

    Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Chhatisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda were also in attendance at the swearing-in ceremony.

    Sukhu, a grassroots politician who rose through the ranks, is a four-time MLA from Nadaun and the head of the election campaign committee in the recently concluded assembly elections which saw Congress return to power in the hill state. ALSO READ | Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu: A fighter who rose through the ranks

    Meanwhile, his deputy,  Mukesh Agnihotri is a five-time MLA from Haroli and the leader of the opposition in the outgoing Himachal Assembly.

    Sukhu said that he is happy that despite being from an ordinary family he is going to be the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.

    “I am happy that I am going to be CM despite being from an ordinary family. I am thankful to the Congress party and the Gandhi family for giving me this opportunity. My mother never stopped me from being in politics. I have reached here today because of her blessings,” said Sukhu.

    The Congress wrested power from the BJP in the hill state winning 40 of the 68 assembly seats. The polling was held on November 12 and the results were declared last Thursday.

    Several leaders including state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, the wife of former Himachal Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, and their son Vikramaditya Singh, who also won his election, were also in contention for the CM and Dy CM’s post.

    This was the first state election since the demise of Virbhadra Singh in July 2021.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Sukhwinder Sukhu to be sworn in as Himachal CM on Sunday

    Express News Service

    CHANDIGARH: Finally, it is official. After all the hectic lobbying, four time MLA Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, 58 has been named as the new Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Mukesh Agnihotri will be the Deputy CM.

    The names of Chief Minister and his deputy was announced soon after the end of the meeting of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) party in Shimla.

    According to a report, son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    The Nadaun MLA, who is considered close to Rahul Gandhi and was the Congress campaign committee head, was unanimously elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party on Saturday.

    Earlier in the day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge cleared Suku’s name and after the CLP meeting, party observer and Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Bhagel announced the names of CM and his deputy. They will be sworn in on December 11.

    Meanwhile the supporters of State party president Pratibha Singh have been protesting through out the day outside the Cecil Hotel in Shimla where the party observers Baghel and former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda were staying as she has vehemently opposed to Sukhu being made the CM and had conveyed her displeasure but finally she relented.

    From the morning itself Congress MLAs made a beeline to the hotel and met the observers. Many state party leaders including  Pratibha Singh and leader of the opposition in the outgoing assembly Mukesh Agnihotri besides Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met the observers individually.

    Sources said that  the party observers and high command  were not in favour of Pratibha to be CM as they were averse to facing a by-poll from Mandi Lok Sabha seat in case Pratibha is made CM and later an assembly by election to get her elected as an MLA and then she reportedly  bargained for the post of deputy chief minister for her son Vikramaditya Singh who had won from the Shimla (Rural) constituency for the second time.

    Sukhu is MLA from Nadaun in Hamirpur district and he had the support of a majority of  the legislators.

    This is for the second time that Hamirpur district has got a Chief Ministe as former BJP Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had lost the elections in 2017 came from the Sujanpur seat.

    According to a report, son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu, 58, had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    A product of student politics, Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu was a known detractor of party veteran Virbhadra Singh who had dominated Himachal Pradesh politics for over five decades until his demise last year. With the party bagging its first victory in the hill state without the charismatic presence of Virbhadra Singh, Sukhu’s elevation makes it clear that the party is ready to move on.

    More so, the party did not give in to the strong claim to the post mounted by Pratibha Singh, the party’s state unit chief and wife of Virbhadra Singh.

    He won the assembly election for the first time in 2003 from Nadaun, retained the seat in 2007 but was defeated in 2012 and won again in 2017 and 2022.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from PTI)

    CHANDIGARH: Finally, it is official. After all the hectic lobbying, four time MLA Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, 58 has been named as the new Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Mukesh Agnihotri will be the Deputy CM.

    The names of Chief Minister and his deputy was announced soon after the end of the meeting of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) party in Shimla.

    According to a report, son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    The Nadaun MLA, who is considered close to Rahul Gandhi and was the Congress campaign committee head, was unanimously elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party on Saturday.

    Earlier in the day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge cleared Suku’s name and after the CLP meeting, party observer and Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Bhagel announced the names of CM and his deputy. They will be sworn in on December 11.

    Meanwhile the supporters of State party president Pratibha Singh have been protesting through out the day outside the Cecil Hotel in Shimla where the party observers Baghel and former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda were staying as she has vehemently opposed to Sukhu being made the CM and had conveyed her displeasure but finally she relented.

    From the morning itself Congress MLAs made a beeline to the hotel and met the observers. Many state party leaders including  Pratibha Singh and leader of the opposition in the outgoing assembly Mukesh Agnihotri besides Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met the observers individually.

    Sources said that  the party observers and high command  were not in favour of Pratibha to be CM as they were averse to facing a by-poll from Mandi Lok Sabha seat in case Pratibha is made CM and later an assembly by election to get her elected as an MLA and then she reportedly  bargained for the post of deputy chief minister for her son Vikramaditya Singh who had won from the Shimla (Rural) constituency for the second time.

    Sukhu is MLA from Nadaun in Hamirpur district and he had the support of a majority of  the legislators.

    This is for the second time that Hamirpur district has got a Chief Ministe as former BJP Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had lost the elections in 2017 came from the Sujanpur seat.

    According to a report, son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu, 58, had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    A product of student politics, Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu was a known detractor of party veteran Virbhadra Singh who had dominated Himachal Pradesh politics for over five decades until his demise last year. With the party bagging its first victory in the hill state without the charismatic presence of Virbhadra Singh, Sukhu’s elevation makes it clear that the party is ready to move on.

    More so, the party did not give in to the strong claim to the post mounted by Pratibha Singh, the party’s state unit chief and wife of Virbhadra Singh.

    He won the assembly election for the first time in 2003 from Nadaun, retained the seat in 2007 but was defeated in 2012 and won again in 2017 and 2022.ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from PTI)

  • Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to be sworn in as Himachal CM on Sunday

    Express News Service

    CHANDIGARH: Finally, it is official. After all the hectic lobbying, four-time MLA Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu,58, has been named as the new Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.

    Mukesh Agnihotri will be the Deputy CM.

    The names of the Chief Minister and his deputy were announced soon after the end of the meeting of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) party in Shimla.

    Sukhvinder, the Nadaun MLA, who is considered close to Rahul Gandhi and was the Congress campaign committee head, was unanimously elected leader of the CLP on Saturday.

    Earlier in the day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge cleared Suku’s name and after the CLP meeting, party observer and Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Bhagel announced the names of the CM and his deputy. They will be sworn in on December 11.

    Humble Beginning

    Sukhu is MLA from Nadaun in Hamirpur district and he had the support of a majority of the legislators.

    This is for the second time that Hamirpur district has got a Chief Minister as former BJP Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had lost the elections in 2017 came from the Sujanpur seat.

    Son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu, had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    A product of student politics, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was a known detractor of party veteran Virbhadra Singh who had dominated Himachal Pradesh politics for over five decades until his demise last year. With the party bagging its first victory in the hill state without the charismatic presence of Virbhadra Singh, Sukhu’s elevation makes it clear that the party is ready to move on.

    More so, the party did not give in to the strong claim to the post mounted by Pratibha Singh, the party’s state unit chief and wife of Virbhadra Singh.

    He won the assembly election for the first time in 2003 from Nadaun, retained the seat in 2007 but was defeated in 2012 and won again in 2017 and 2022.

    Pratibha Singh Relents

    Meanwhile, the supporters of State party president Pratibha Singh have been protesting throughout the day outside the Cecil Hotel in Shimla where the party observers Baghel and former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda were staying as she has vehemently opposed to Sukhu being made the CM and had conveyed her displeasure but finally she relented.

    From the morning itself, Congress MLAs made a beeline to the hotel and met the observers. Many state party leaders including  Pratibha Singh and leader of the opposition in the outgoing assembly Mukesh Agnihotri besides Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met the observers individually.

    Sources said that the party observers and high command were not in favour of Pratibha being CM as they were averse to facing a by-poll from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat in case Pratibha is made CM and later an assembly by-election to get her elected as an MLA. She also reportedly bargained for the post of deputy chief minister for her son Vikramaditya Singh who had won from the Shimla (Rural) constituency for the second time.

    “Democratic Decision”

    Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma on Saturday congratulated Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on his selection as the next chief minister of Himachal Pradesh, saying he was grateful that the party leadership has taken a “democratic decision” and chosen one who has risen through the ranks.

    Reacting to the development, Sharma said on Twitter, “Congratulations to…Sukhu…Richly deserved recognition of his life long commitment to the Congress party and acknowledged contribution. ” Grateful that the party leadership has taken a democratic decision and chosen one who has risen through the ranks, he said.

    “A matter of pride that the son of an ordinary family will be our CM, thanks to our leadership, Smt Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge ji, @RahulGandhi and @PriyankaGandhi for leading a spirited campaign,” Sharma tweeted.

    “My good wishes and support to my new CM Sukhu,” he added.

    Congratulations to Sukhvinder Sukhu on becoming the next Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Richly deserved recognition of his life long commitment to the Congress party and acknowledged contribution.
    — Anand Sharma (@AnandSharmaINC) December 10, 2022
    Sharma, a member of the G-23 group of Congress leaders who had written to the then party chief Sonia Gandhi in 2020 seeking organisational overhaul, had campaigned for the party in Himachal assembly polls and many candidates, for whom he canvassed, won the election.

    He, however, had lamented that the party did not fully utilise his services.

    The Congress wrested power from the BJP in the hill state winning 40 of the 68 assembly seats.

    The polling was held on November 12 and the results were declared Thursday.

    ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from PTI)

    CHANDIGARH: Finally, it is official. After all the hectic lobbying, four-time MLA Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu,58, has been named as the new Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh.

    Mukesh Agnihotri will be the Deputy CM.

    The names of the Chief Minister and his deputy were announced soon after the end of the meeting of the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) party in Shimla.

    Sukhvinder, the Nadaun MLA, who is considered close to Rahul Gandhi and was the Congress campaign committee head, was unanimously elected leader of the CLP on Saturday.

    Earlier in the day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge cleared Suku’s name and after the CLP meeting, party observer and Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Bhagel announced the names of the CM and his deputy. They will be sworn in on December 11.

    Humble Beginning

    Sukhu is MLA from Nadaun in Hamirpur district and he had the support of a majority of the legislators.

    This is for the second time that Hamirpur district has got a Chief Minister as former BJP Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had lost the elections in 2017 came from the Sujanpur seat.

    Son of a road transport corporation driver, SS Sukhu, had a modest beginning and used to run a milk counter at Chhota Shimla in his early days.

    A product of student politics, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was a known detractor of party veteran Virbhadra Singh who had dominated Himachal Pradesh politics for over five decades until his demise last year. With the party bagging its first victory in the hill state without the charismatic presence of Virbhadra Singh, Sukhu’s elevation makes it clear that the party is ready to move on.

    More so, the party did not give in to the strong claim to the post mounted by Pratibha Singh, the party’s state unit chief and wife of Virbhadra Singh.

    He won the assembly election for the first time in 2003 from Nadaun, retained the seat in 2007 but was defeated in 2012 and won again in 2017 and 2022.

    Pratibha Singh Relents

    Meanwhile, the supporters of State party president Pratibha Singh have been protesting throughout the day outside the Cecil Hotel in Shimla where the party observers Baghel and former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda were staying as she has vehemently opposed to Sukhu being made the CM and had conveyed her displeasure but finally she relented.

    From the morning itself, Congress MLAs made a beeline to the hotel and met the observers. Many state party leaders including  Pratibha Singh and leader of the opposition in the outgoing assembly Mukesh Agnihotri besides Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met the observers individually.

    Sources said that the party observers and high command were not in favour of Pratibha being CM as they were averse to facing a by-poll from the Mandi Lok Sabha seat in case Pratibha is made CM and later an assembly by-election to get her elected as an MLA. She also reportedly bargained for the post of deputy chief minister for her son Vikramaditya Singh who had won from the Shimla (Rural) constituency for the second time.

    “Democratic Decision”

    Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma on Saturday congratulated Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on his selection as the next chief minister of Himachal Pradesh, saying he was grateful that the party leadership has taken a “democratic decision” and chosen one who has risen through the ranks.

    Reacting to the development, Sharma said on Twitter, “Congratulations to…Sukhu…Richly deserved recognition of his life long commitment to the Congress party and acknowledged contribution. ” Grateful that the party leadership has taken a democratic decision and chosen one who has risen through the ranks, he said.

    “A matter of pride that the son of an ordinary family will be our CM, thanks to our leadership, Smt Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge ji, @RahulGandhi and @PriyankaGandhi for leading a spirited campaign,” Sharma tweeted.

    “My good wishes and support to my new CM Sukhu,” he added.

    Congratulations to Sukhvinder Sukhu on becoming the next Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Richly deserved recognition of his life long commitment to the Congress party and acknowledged contribution.
    — Anand Sharma (@AnandSharmaINC) December 10, 2022
    Sharma, a member of the G-23 group of Congress leaders who had written to the then party chief Sonia Gandhi in 2020 seeking organisational overhaul, had campaigned for the party in Himachal assembly polls and many candidates, for whom he canvassed, won the election.

    He, however, had lamented that the party did not fully utilise his services.

    The Congress wrested power from the BJP in the hill state winning 40 of the 68 assembly seats.

    The polling was held on November 12 and the results were declared Thursday.

    ALSO READ | How a battered and bruised Congress found love in Shimla

    (With inputs from PTI)