Principals and medical superintendents can issue Himcare cards year-round in special cases. Regular application periods occur quarterly (March, June, September, December). Accident victims receive free treatment at state-run hospitals. Himcare cards are valid for one year and renewable during the quarterly periods. Fees vary based on applicant category.
Approximately 15.53 hectares of forest land were allocated for expanding Dr. Radhakrishnan Government Medical College in Hamirpur. The expansion includes a cancer hospital (Rs 200 crore budget, Rs 90 crore released), a nursing college, a super specialty hospital, a mother and child hospital, and staff quarters. The land transfer allows construction to begin.
Himachal Pradesh High Court ordered removal of apple orchards from re-encroached forest land and plantation of forest species. Costs will be recovered from encroachers. Police and government assistance was directed, and bailable warrants issued for those obstructing the eviction process.
Health Minister JP Nadda will tour cloudburst-affected areas in Mandi district on July 9. He will visit Thunag, Nachan, and Karsog, sites of significant devastation. He will be joined by State BJP president Rajeev Bindal and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur.
Himachal Pradesh plans helicopter service to key temples to boost spiritual tourism and revenue. The state also seeks helicopter ambulance service and relaxed visibility rules at Gaggal Airport. Development of helipads is crucial for tourism and local economy.
Flash flood warnings are in effect for eight districts due to heavy rainfall expected over the next 24 hours, with a yellow warning for heavy rain until July 14. Light to moderate rain continues with isolated heavy spells. Una was the hottest place at 34.2°C, and Tabo was the coldest at 12.1°C.
BJP leader Rajeev Bindal criticized the Himachal Pradesh government for its slow response to flash flood damage in Mandi district. He claimed the government failed to restore roads, water supply, and properly rehabilitate affected residents. Bindal accused the Chief Minister of prioritizing politics over providing aid, highlighting deaths and missing persons due to the floods.
Solan MC ward boundaries will remain unchanged due to minimal population disparities and councillor concerns about electoral impacts. Delimitation was cancelled after objections to proposed boundary adjustments. The focus now shifts to finalizing ward reservations for upcoming elections.
CM directs Nauni varsity Vice-Chancellor to send teams of experts to affected areas
Mandi district has banned hill cutting and excavation activities until August 31 due to heavy rainfall risks. The ban, enforced under the Disaster Management Act, aims to protect life and infrastructure. Exceptions are made for disaster-related work. Violators face legal action.
A dog's instincts saved over 60 lives in Siyathi village during a landslide. The dog's agitated behavior alerted its owner to a crack in a wall, prompting an evacuation. Minutes later, a landslide destroyed homes. Survivors are now displaced and seeking aid.
Kalka-Shimla train services will be suspended from July 11-15 due to bridge work. Trains will only run to Tara Devi. Several trains are canceled or have altered schedules. Watering facilities will be at Barog. Passengers should check the latest schedule.
The state government is expanding technician course seats after 23 years to address a shortage of trained medical staff and support modern equipment. Seats in programs like B.Sc. (Medical Laboratory Technique) and others have been increased at specific institutions. This aims to offer local training and reduce reliance on out-of-state institutions.
Meteorological Department issues flash flood warning for 8 districts
These districts are Chamba, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur
Known for his selfless service under the initiative 'Almighty’s Blessings', Bobby has spent over a decade helping the needy
The Public Works Department repaired the Siyur wooden bridge, which was damaged by a rockfall, restoring essential connectivity for Holi area residents. The bridge is now open to pedestrians and light vehicles, providing a shorter route and vital lifeline, especially during road closures. Heavy vehicles are restricted.
Once a clean and serene spot in Himachal Pradesh, the area now faces large-scale environmental degradation due to the absence of a proper waste disposal system
Two PhD scholars from CSKHPKV, Aashin Sharma and Isha Goswami, received prestigious INSPIRE fellowships. The fellowships, awarded by the Indian government, recognize top postgraduate students in science. The university's Vice-Chancellor lauded their achievement, highlighting the university's commitment to research.
Himachal Kisan Sabha and CITU demand compensation and rehabilitation for Shimla residents affected by building collapses blamed on negligent NHAI construction. They advocate for an expert committee, compensation under Factor 2 of the Land Acquisition Act, and protest on July 16. They also highlight broader environmental and livelihood concerns related to infrastructure projects.
Himachal Pradesh University reconstituted its Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) for three years to address sexual harassment complaints. The committee, mandated by UGC regulations, includes a presiding officer, faculty, non-teaching staff, an NGO representative, and elected student members. This aims to create a safe environment for students and staff.
Health services mobilised on a war footing
Anirudh Singh, Rural Development Minister, attended the Bishu Fair in Shimla, emphasizing the importance of preserving Himachal's cultural heritage. He highlighted government investments in the region, including road improvements and efforts to solve water supply issues. The local community welcomed the government's support.
Construction delays on the Kangra-Shimla highway between Ranital and Nadaun cause concern. Unmetalled stretches, especially during monsoon, plus incomplete culverts and lack of safety measures endanger villagers. Local officials urge NHAI to address safety issues and expedite the project to realize travel time and safety benefits.
From debris to hope
Torrential rains in Kangra district are causing widespread damage. Infrastructure is failing in areas like Dharamsala, Nagrota Bagwan, and Jwalamukhi due to poor construction, neglected repairs, and inadequate drainage. Locals face risks from landslides, flooding, and crumbling roads, demanding urgent action.
The Adhivakta Parishad, Himachal Pradesh, held a legal aid camp in Kupvi, Shimla district, on July 5. It provided free legal consultations and focused on the Forest Rights Act, specifically community rights, entitlements, and collective ownership.
Himachal Pradesh Assembly member Kewal Singh Pathania advocates for including Chamba's temples and pilgrimage sites in the state's religious tourism circuit. He highlights the region's devotional potential, citing Manimahesh Lake's popularity. Pathania also announced developmental projects for Koonr, including a new school building and road improvements.
The government is committed to preserving Buddhism, the Bhoti language, and tribal culture. Minister Jagat Singh Negi spoke at the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday celebration, emphasizing the importance of cultural fairs and spreading Buddhist teachings, including translating Bhoti texts. The event included traditional dances.
Monsoon mayhem on Shimla route sparks call for toll suspension, FASTag fix