Himachal Day celebrated in Mandi; Minister Vikramaditya Singh highlights infrastructure push
Celebrations held at Seri Manch marked by cultural programmes and key development announcements.
Himachal Pradesh Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh presided over the district-level Himachal Day celebrations held at the historic Seri Manch here today. The Minister unfurled the national flag and took the salute during an impressive march past featuring contingents of the police, Home Guards, NCC, NSS, and Scouts and Guides.
Earlier, he paid floral tributes at the Shaheed Smarak in Indira Market and at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. The event also witnessed vibrant cultural performances by students from various educational institutions, adding colour and enthusiasm to the celebrations.
Extending greetings on Himachal Day, Singh recalled that on April 15, 1948, 30 princely hill states were merged to form Himachal as a Chief Commissioner’s Province. He paid homage to freedom fighters, leaders of the Praja Mandal movement, and brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the unity and integrity of the nation.
Highlighting infrastructure development, the Minister announced that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) work for the strategically important Bhubujot Tunnel has begun. The proposed two-lane tunnel will significantly enhance connectivity between Mandi and Kullu districts and reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by around 55 kilometers. He added that efforts are underway to upgrade the Shilhbudhani–Bhubujot–Kullu road into a National Highway, with the Ministry of Defence recognising its strategic importance.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, 294 projects covering 1,538 kilometers of roads have been approved at an estimated cost of Rs. 2,244 crore. Additionally, proposals worth Rs. 1,200 crore are being prepared for another 800 kilometers of rural roads. Singh also announced that construction work on the Mandi–Gagal–Chailchowk–Janjehli road will begin soon.
The government has earmarked nearly Rs. 1,000 crore for the maintenance of existing roads. In the coming year, 500 kilometres of new motorable roads, 1,255 kilometres of cross-drainage works, 950 kilometres of road tarring, and 47 bridges will be constructed.
Addressing economic challenges following the withdrawal of revenue deficit grants, Singh expressed confidence in the resilience of the people, stating that collective efforts will restore the state’s economic strength. He noted that the government has generated over Rs. 49,500 crore in revenue over the past three years.
He also highlighted key welfare initiatives, including the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for 1.36 lakh employees, financial assistance of Rs. 1,500 per month to eligible women under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna scheme, and the Rs. 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Start-up Yojana promoting youth self-employment.
The Minister further emphasised achievements in education, healthcare, and agriculture, including the introduction of English-medium education from Class I in government schools, implementation of a new horticulture policy, and support prices for naturally grown crops.
On the occasion, Singh also launched a cleanliness awareness song and signature campaign by the Mandi Municipal Corporation and honoured sanitation workers, parade participants, and cultural performers.
Several dignitaries, senior officials, and local leaders were present during the event.
