Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Samman Nidhi Yojana: Empowering Women in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Unveils Winter Closures, Welfare Schemes, and Development Push in Lahaul & Spiti

HimachalEmpoweringWomen: Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Samman Nidhi Yojana Empowers Lahaul & Spiti Women with ₹1,500 Monthly Pension

In a significant development for Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a multi-pronged initiative during his visit to Lahaul & Spiti. This initiative encompasses:

1. Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Samman Nidhi Yojana: This scheme grants a monthly pension of Rs. 1,500 to all women aged 18 and above in the district, empowering and uplifting their financial well-being. This move benefits 2.42 lakh women across the state, reflecting the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment.

2. Winter School Closures: Recognizing the harsh winter conditions, the Chief Minister announced the closure of schools in Lahaul & Spiti during winters. The academic session will be shifted to summers, ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.

3. Development Projects: Several development projects were announced, including a Block Development office in Udaipur, a Rajiv Gandhi Day Boarding School in Darcha, and the initiation of sewerage and water drainage schemes in Keylong. These projects aim to improve infrastructure and basic amenities in the district.

4. Healthcare and Education: A Public Health Centre in Tindi and an Animal Husbandry Department dispensary in Madgran will be established, enhancing access to healthcare for both humans and animals. Additionally, the Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Shiksha Yojana will cover the education cost of widows’ children till 27, ensuring their educational opportunities.

5. Other Initiatives: The Chief Minister announced a Rs. 60 increase in the daily wage under MNREGA, providing better compensation to workers. Himachal Pradesh also offers the highest Minimum Support Price (MSP) for milk in India, supporting dairy farmers. Furthermore, the government proposed raising the marriage age for girls to 21, promoting gender equality.

6. Addressing Challenges: Recognizing the financial constraints inherited from the previous government, the Chief Minister highlighted their efforts to improve the state’s fiscal health. He emphasized fulfilling election promises, including restoring the Old Pension Scheme despite central restrictions and providing a Rs. 4,500 crore disaster relief package without central aid.

7. Social Welfare: The state government enacted a law granting “Children of the State” status to orphans under the Mukhya Mantri Sukh Ashray Yojana, demonstrating their commitment to vulnerable sections of society.

This multi-pronged initiative by the Himachal Pradesh government addresses various concerns in Lahaul & Spiti, focusing on women’s empowerment, education, infrastructure development, healthcare, social welfare, and economic well-being. It showcases their commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in the district.