Mandi: Himachal Pradesh Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh presided over the district-level Himachal Day celebrations held at Seri Manch in Mandi today.
The minister unfurled the national flag and took the salute at the march past. He also paid floral tributes at the Martyrs’ Memorial located at Indira Market and at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Seri. The event featured a grand parade by police, Home Guards, NCC, NSS, and Scouts and Guides contingents, along with colorful cultural performances by students from various educational institutions.
Extending greetings on Himachal Day, Vikramaditya Singh highlighted that Himachal Pradesh came into existence on this day in 1948 through the merger of 30 small and large hill states, becoming a Chief Commissioner’s province. He paid tribute to the leaders of the Praja Mandal movement, freedom fighters, and citizens who played a key role in the formation of the state.
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring road connectivity to every part of the state despite challenging geographical conditions. He said efforts are underway to upgrade the Shilh Budhani–Bhubhu Jot–Kullu road into a national highway, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) initiating the DPR process for a two-lane road after it was declared strategically important by the Defence Ministry. He added that the Bhubhu Jot tunnel would reduce the distance between Kangra and Kullu by approximately 55 km.
He further informed that under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, 1,538 km of roads covering 294 projects worth ₹2,244 crore have been approved. A proposal for an additional 800 km of roads worth ₹1,200 crore is also being prepared to ensure no village is left behind.
The minister stated that the government is also focusing on road maintenance with a provision of around ₹1,000 crore to ensure durability and safety. In the coming year, the state plans to construct 500 km of new motorable roads, complete 1,255 km of cross drainage works, carry out tarring of 950 km roads, and construct 47 new bridges.
Highlighting rural outreach initiatives, he said the government is providing doorstep services through the “Ghar Ke Dwar” programme and resolving long-pending revenue cases through special revenue courts.
Discussing financial challenges after the discontinuation of revenue deficit grants, he said that despite difficulties, the spirit of Himachal’s people would ensure progress. He added that the state has generated over ₹49,500 crore in revenue in the last three years and fulfilled major electoral promises, including the restoration of Old Pension Scheme for 1.36 lakh employees.
He also highlighted welfare schemes such as ₹1,500 monthly assistance under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh-Samman Nidhi Yojana, self-employment support under the Rajiv Gandhi Startup Scheme, and procurement of milk at the highest support prices in the country. Himachal has also become the first state to offer MSP for naturally grown wheat, maize, turmeric, and ginger.
The minister noted advancements in healthcare with the introduction of robotic surgery in major medical colleges and improvements in education rankings, with Himachal now ranked 5th nationally in the National Achievement Survey, rising from 21st position in 2021.
He concluded by calling for a “drug-free Himachal” and urged collective efforts to protect the youth from substance abuse.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including former minister Prakash Chaudhary, senior officials, and representatives from various departments.
