Lahaul-Spiti carving distinct identity within state: DC

Lahaul-Spiti district is making significant strides towards progress, following a balanced and sustainable development model similar to other regions of Himachal Pradesh. According to Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar, the district is carving a distinct identity within the state and across the nation, thanks to various government programmes aimed at its holistic development.

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“The state government is making consistent efforts to accelerate the pace of development through various schemes. These initiatives, implemented with the help of the administrative machinery, are ensuring fast and efficient progress in the region,” remarked the DC.

Among the flagship programmes, the Chief Minister Sukh Ashray Yojana has been particularly impactful in Lahaul-Spiti. In 2024-25, 26 orphaned children were provided with social security pensions, each receiving a monthly stipend of Rs 4,000, totalling Rs 16.85 lakh for the year. Additionally, three orphaned children have been granted Rs 2.32 lakh for higher education, while six others received Rs 5.67 lakh for vocational training. Furthermore, one orphan child has been provided Rs 3 lakh for house construction.

Under the Indira Gandhi Sukha Shiksha Yojana, seven eligible children from the district receive Rs 1,000 per month. Similarly, the Mission Vatsalya initiative has benefited 17 orphaned and semi-orphaned children under the age of 18, with financial assistance totalling Rs 4.68 lakh in 2024-25.

The Beti Hai Anmol Yojana has also played a vital role in supporting education for girls. Forty girls in the Lahaul sub-division received a total of Rs 3 lakh in financial aid, while 44 girls in Kaza have benefited from the scheme. Additionally, under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, 10 meritorious girl students from the district’s 10th and 12th grades were awarded tablets to aid their studies.

Highlighting another key welfare programme, the DC mentioned that the Social Security Pension Scheme has provided Rs 4.91 crore in pensions to 2,835 eligible individuals, including the elderly, differently-abled, and single women. Furthermore, 97 new pension cases were approved in the district this year.

“These efforts reflect the state government’s commitment to uplifting marginalised sections, especially children and women, while ensuring social security and education,” the DC emphasised.