Modi lauds Himachal’s success in vaccination programme, urges state to be ‘chemical free’ in 25 years

Tribune News Service

Shimla, September 6

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday attributed the achievement of attaining 100 per cent first-dose vaccination and zero wastage in Himachal to the tireless efforts of the state government and the blessings of the deities in the “Dev Bhoomi”.

“It is the strong belief in deities, education and science which has brought about the feat, which Himachal has time and again proved this,” he remarked.

Modi said Himachal would get greater benefit of digital technology, especially in the field of education and health, as eminent doctors and teachers could virtually give their services.

He said the state should move forward with the mission of “chemical-free Himachal” in the next 25 years so that it could become an organic state. “I have complete faith in the youth of Himachal, women and men that they will protect our soil against chemicals,” he said.

He said it is for this reason that the Centre had simplified the rules for using drone technology as it could help in delivering medicines, undertaking land survey and protecting forests to transform the lives of the hill people. He said it was effective communication and education which helped in achieving this success story which would immensely help in tourism promotion.

“Himachal has become the favourite “work from home” destination for professionals from across the country which is giving a major boost to tourism,” he said. This, he added, was a proof that technology and good connectivity, be it of rail, road, air or internet was essential for development, tourism promotion and for framers to carry their produce to the markets.

Expressing concern over the recurring natural calamities, the PM said these had become a major challenge for the state. “We have to look for scientific solutions through research and look for developing early warning signals and explore new innovation in construction technology,” he advised.

He lauded the Jal Jeevan Mission which had ensured tap water supply to every home. “There is immense scope for cultivating medicinal herbs, vegetables and fruits in Himachal and women self-help groups can play a major role in this field,” he said. He said an Agri Infrastructure Fund for Rs 1,000 crore had been created which could be availed to set up processing units closer to the fields and orchards.

He said Himachal had given first vaccine to its entire eligible population and shown that the state is atama nirbhar.

“We need to now ensure that those who have taken one dose, take the second vaccine,” he said. He said Himachal had shown belief in the medical experts, doctors and health workers who have made the vaccination programme a success and that too with zero vaccine wastage.

Modi said Himachal achieved this success as everyone worked dedicatedly as a team and became number one in the country in achieving 100 per cent first dose vaccination and zero wastage.