Chief Minister Approves 100 Percent Salary for AYUSH Doctors Pursuing Post-Graduation
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed that doctors pursuing post-graduation under the AYUSH Department be granted full salary, replacing the earlier provision of 40 percent. Chairing a departmental review, he emphasized the promotion of wellness tourism in the state, highlighting Himachal’s favorable climate and natural surroundings. The Chief Minister instructed a study of AYUSH institutions with high OPD turnout and integration of patient data with HIM Parivar numbers for improved service delivery.
Plans for a new AYUSH College at Nahan and strengthening of the Ayurvedic College at Paprola were also discussed. The Chief Minister further directed the creation of herbal gardens in high-altitude areas like Spiti Valley and the introduction of yoga classes in Balika Ashrams and Old Age Homes. AYUSH Minister Yadvinder Goma, Secretary A. Shainamol, and Director Rohit Jamwal were among those present.
20th State Level Coordination Committee Meeting Reviews Financial Health and Cyber Fraud Issues
The 20th meeting of the State Level Coordination Committee (SLCC) for Himachal Pradesh was held under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta. The forum reviewed issues related to unauthorized acceptance of deposits by fraudulent entities, cyber frauds, and the financial health of cooperative banks in the state. Regional Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Himachal Pradesh, Anupam Kishore convened the meeting. It was attended by Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar and senior representatives from SEBI, NABARD, Registrar of Companies (RoC), ICAI, TRAI, NHB, and PFRDA.
HPU Signs MoU with Indian Army to Promote Research and Development
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla and the Indian Army in the presence of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Brigadier Anurag Pandey represented the Indian Army, while Professor Mahavir Singh, Vice-Chancellor, signed on behalf of HPU. The agreement aims to foster collaboration in research and development, focusing on areas such as Indo-Tibet historical linkages, economic studies in border areas, drone technology, cyber security, and green energy initiatives.
The MoU also provides opportunities for Army personnel to pursue academic courses at HPU. The ceremony was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, and Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta.
Army to Set Up Wind Turbine Projects in Border Areas; CM Reviews Border Tourism Progress
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held a meeting with senior Army officers to review ongoing projects. The Indian Army has prepared a detailed project report to establish wind turbines at 20 border locations, expected to generate 68,000 to 80,000 kWh annually—enough to electrify up to 160 households. The Chief Minister noted the encouraging success of the joint border tourism initiative, which saw tourist inflow rise from 21,000 in 2024 to over 70,000 in 2025.
He informed that the state government has written to the Union Government seeking resumption of trade through Shipki-La, with positive indications received. Progress on the Rangrik airport project was also reviewed. The meeting was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, and Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta.
Dr. Abhishek Jain Advocates Modernization of Keylong Library and Museum
Secretary (Finance, Economics, Statistics, and Planning) Dr. Abhishek Jain visited the regional museum and library at Keylong, where he emphasized equipping the facility with modern technology to enhance research and study activities. He suggested expanding computer facilities, digitizing rare collections, and organizing exhibitions to preserve and promote the tribal region’s cultural heritage.
Data Accuracy Vital for Policy Planning: Workshop on Statistical Strengthening Held at Keylong
The Department of Economics and Statistics organized a workshop in Lahaul-Spiti under the Statistical Strengthening Support Scheme to promote transparency and coordination. Dr. Abhishek Jain chaired the session, stressing that reliable data forms the backbone of policy-making. He urged departments to conduct sector-wise data analysis and form small research groups to study migration, horticulture, agriculture, and handicrafts. Economic Advisor Dr. Vinod Rana and Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana highlighted the role of data transparency in good governance. Presentations were made on the District Good Governance Index and GDP estimation.
Governor Inaugurates International Lavi Fair at Rampur Bushahr
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the four-day International Lavi Fair at Rampur Bushahr, describing it as a vibrant festival symbolizing Himachal’s cultural unity and trade legacy. He acknowledged former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh’s role in granting the fair international status and praised organizers for promoting Himachal’s heritage through cultural performances and exhibitions. Expressing concern over drug abuse, the Governor urged community action alongside police efforts. He also stressed environmental protection for a prosperous Himachal. Local MLA Nand Lal and Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap addressed the gathering, while folk artists presented traditional performances.
Axis Bank to Build Weather-Resistant Shelters for Disaster-Hit Families in Mandi
Axis Bank North Zone Head Abhishek Parashar and State Head Varun Sharma met Chief Minister Sukhu and committed to constructing 57 weather-resistant shelters in disaster-affected areas of Mandi under CSR. Each unit will include insulation, kitchen slabs, and electrical fittings. Additionally, 15 community toilet units will be installed, benefiting multiple families. The initiative prioritizes vulnerable groups such as the elderly and persons with disabilities. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude, terming the initiative a significant humanitarian effort.
Education Minister Emphasizes Reconstruction of Disaster-Affected School Buildings
Education Minister Rohit Thakur stated that repairing disaster-damaged school buildings is a top priority for the state government. Funds have been directed to HIMUDA for urgent reconstruction of 1,411 schools affected during the monsoon, at an estimated cost of Rs. 126.73 crore. He announced that Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding Schools with modern facilities are being constructed in all constituencies, with 42 sites currently under development. The government is also introducing CBSE curriculum in 100 government schools, with specialist teachers appointed for quality instruction.
The Minister directed regular school reviews, additional classes for low-performing students, and disciplinary action for misconduct. He also encouraged reducing teachers’ non-academic workload and announced that B.Ed. and D.El.Ed. trainees would undergo teaching practice in their home areas. Senior officers including Secretary (Education) Rakesh Kanwar and Director (School Education) Ashish Kohli attended the review meeting.