Development era begins in Bilaspur, says Anirudh Singh
Bilaspur has entered a new era of development with improved infrastructure and facilities, said Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh while addressing the Republic Day gathering at Bilaspur yesterday. After hoisting the national flag, Singh highlighted the significance of the day, paying homage to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for India’s independence and sovereignty. He emphasized that the country’s rapid development in various fields today is a result of the hard-earned freedom.
Singh noted that the past two years have marked significant strides toward making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and prosperous. With the mission to “change the system”, the government has achieved milestones in financial reform, social welfare, and infrastructure development.
Despite inheriting a debt of Rs 75,000 crore and employee liabilities of Rs 10,000 crore from the previous government, the Sukhu-led administration implemented strong financial measures, increasing state revenue by Rs 2,631 crore through a revised excise policy. Singh lauded Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for introducing a Rs 4,500 crore relief package for families affected by natural disasters and restoring the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), benefiting 1.36 lakh employees.
For women’s welfare, Singh highlighted the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana, which provides Rs 1,500 to women, and the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana, under which 6,000 destitute women and orphans were adopted as “Children of the State”. Additionally, 76,000 new beneficiaries were added to the state’s social security pension scheme.
In agriculture, Himachal Pradesh became the first state in India to offer a minimum support price for wheat and maize, showcasing its commitment to rural and agricultural development.
The minister also honoured families of freedom fighters and recognised outstanding employees from various departments for their service. The event featured a vibrant cultural programmes by students.
