In a significant move, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened on Tuesday to approve the induction of 2,061 Van Mitras into the Forest Department, eliminating the previously required 10-mark personal interview criterion. This decision is expected to enhance workforce efficiency within the department.
Enhancements in Healthcare and Law Enforcement
The cabinet also sanctioned the creation of 150 nursing personnel positions at Dr. Radhakrishnan Government Medical College and Hospital in Hamirpur. In addition, six Associate Professor and ten Assistant Professor posts will be established across several medical departments, including General Medicine, Paediatrics, General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Anaesthesia, and Radiology.
Moreover, the cabinet approved the establishment of a new Sub-Divisional Police Officer’s office in Nadaun, Hamirpur district, along with the creation of five posts across various categories. A new Fire Post will also be set up at Indora in Kangra district, with 13 posts to be filled.
To improve disaster response, the cabinet decided to transfer administrative control of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to the Additional Director General (Home Guards and Civil Defence). The move aims to enhance the SDRF’s effectiveness during emergencies and includes a plan to deputize Home Guards to the SDRF for a maximum of two years.
Additionally, to promote electric vehicle (EV) usage and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the cabinet approved the involvement of private players to expand the EV charging station network along the state’s six green corridors. Currently, 77 EV charging stations are operational in these areas. The cabinet also plans to establish five automated testing stations for vehicle fitness assessments using advanced equipment.
Focus on Power Projects and Parking Operations
The cabinet accepted recommendations from a sub-committee concerning the 450 MW Shongtong Karchham Power Project, directing completion by the financial year 2026-27. Furthermore, a new Cabinet Sub-Committee will review the operations of parking facilities managed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in Shimla City.
The committee will be chaired by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi and will assess various parking operations, including Lift Parking and Tutikandi Parking. Lastly, the cabinet decided to amend the Eco-tourism Policy of 2017 to align with recent amendments in the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) of 2023, aiming to boost eco-tourism initiatives in the state.
