Himachal Day Celebrations Highlight Government Initiatives in Chamba

The 79th Himachal Day celebrations in Chamba featured Cabinet Minister Rajesh Dharmani, who highlighted various government initiatives aimed at economic self-reliance. The event included a flag hoisting ceremony, a disciplined march-past, and cultural performances by students. Dharmani emphasized the importance of community welfare programs and urged citizens to work towards a drug-free Himachal. Key initiatives in education, disaster relief, and agriculture were also discussed, showcasing the government's commitment to the state's development.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 15, 2026, 18:21 IST

Celebrating Himachal Day in Chamba

Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie

During the district-level observance of the 79th Himachal Day, Cabinet Minister Rajesh Dharmani raised the national flag at the historic Chaugan ground in Chamba.

In his speech, Dharmani honored the influential figures who played a pivotal role in the establishment of Himachal Pradesh, paying homage to the state's freedom fighters and courageous soldiers. He underscored the government's commitment to fostering economic self-sufficiency in Himachal, despite facing financial constraints.

The minister outlined several key initiatives:

Revenue & Development: Strategic policies have bolstered state revenue, facilitating the effective execution of development projects.

Disaster Relief: Assistance of nearly ₹12 crore was provided to 1,387 families affected by disasters in Chamba last year.

Education & Health: The Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College is set to receive ₹194 crore for its Phase II construction, while seven schools in Chamba have been affiliated with CBSE.

Technical & Industrial Training: Upgrades are underway for institutions like Chamba Polytechnic and Banikhet Polytechnic.

Power Supply: The installation of 243 new transformers and the enhancement of 165 existing ones, along with 224 km of HT and LT lines, are in progress.

Agriculture: The promotion of natural farming includes support prices for wheat, maize, turmeric, and ginger. Pangi Valley has been designated as the state’s first natural farming subdivision, with a fixed barley support price of ₹80/kg.

Dharmani also highlighted various schemes such as the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme, Mukhyamantri Sukhashray Yojana, social security pensions, and initiatives aimed at tourism development. He urged citizens to contribute to a 'Drug-Free Himachal' and encouraged the youth to embrace a healthy lifestyle.

The event showcased a disciplined march-past led by Police Inspector (Women) Pankaj Sharma, featuring contingents from Himachal Police, Home Guards, Forest Guards, SPOs, NCC, NSS, Nursing College, and Anganwadi workers. Students from various institutions performed vibrant cultural programs.

Several outstanding officials, employees, and social workers were recognized with commendation certificates.

The ceremony was graced by MLA Neeraj Nayyar, former minister Asha Kumari, district leaders, and senior officials including Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal and Superintendent of Police Vijay Kumar Saklani.