Rural economy key to Himachal’s prosperity: MLA

Arki MLA Sanjay Awasthi emphasised the importance of the rural economy in Himachal Pradesh’s development while addressing gatherings under the “Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar” programme in Harsangdhar and Chaleli villages of Arki constituency.

Highlighting the state government’s initiatives, Awasthi said farmers were being encouraged to adopt natural farming. He noted that milk prices have been appropriately increased to benefit producers and assured better marketing opportunities for natural farming products.

He lauded the Rajiv Gandhi Start-up Yojana for supporting unemployed educated youth and mentioned efforts to utilise barren lands by installing solar plants.

Education remains a top priority, he said, announcing that Rs 20 crore has been sanctioned for setting up a Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding School in Arki constituency. These schools aim to provide balanced education.

Awasthi also praised the Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar Student Loan Scheme, which supports meritorious students from economically weaker sections.

Regarding local infrastructure, he shared that a proposal for constructing an inn at Harsangdhar temple is awaiting clearance under the Wildlife Protection Act. The MLA assured residents of the government’s commitment to balancing wildlife protection with local rights.

He directed the Jal Shakti Department to draft and estimate an irrigation scheme for Banoh Khardahatti and nearby areas and announced Rs 17 lakh for a drinking water project in the region.