Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Addresses Allegations in Himcare Scheme

In a recent Assembly session, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed plans for a thorough investigation into alleged financial discrepancies in the Himcare health insurance scheme. The CAG has begun auditing the scheme's expenditures, which has faced accusations of misuse benefiting private entities. Additionally, the opposition raised concerns about outsourcing practices, leading to a heated exchange in the House. On a positive note, MLAs united to promote a drug-free Himachal with a strong anti-drug message on the final day of the session. This session highlighted both accountability and community health initiatives.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 15:18 IST

Investigation into Himcare Scheme Discrepancies

Dharamshala: On December 5, 2025, Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced in the state Assembly that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted regarding alleged financial irregularities within the Himcare health insurance program.

CM Sukhu noted that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has initiated an audit of the funds spent on the scheme to date.

He emphasized that the Himcare initiative, designed to offer free medical services to economically disadvantaged individuals, has reportedly been exploited to provide unwarranted advantages to private pharmacies and hospitals. 'The fundamental purpose of the scheme has been undermined, leading to malpractices. Although the program has benefited the underprivileged, instances of misuse cannot be overlooked,' he stated during the session.

Additionally, the Chief Minister mentioned that medical college principals and superintendents will be authorized to issue Himcare cards for four months each year, ensuring that residents can obtain them without unnecessary obstacles. He assured the Assembly that the government would implement stricter measures to prevent irregularities. This statement was made in response to inquiries from BJP MLAs Vinod Kumar and Trilok Jamwal.

Opposition Raises Concerns Over Outsourcing

Leader of the Opposition, Jai Ram Thakur, sought clarification from the government on whether any outsourced agency had been utilized through the Department of Information and Public Relations (IPR) or other means. He also requested information regarding the duration of service and payments authorized up to October 31, 2025.

The Assembly experienced heated exchanges when Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi filed a privilege notice against Jai Ram Thakur, prompting the Speaker to consider appropriate actions. The Speaker indicated that the Assembly Secretariat would review the situation before determining the next steps, leading to protests and disorder in the House. Consequently, the proceedings were temporarily suspended for 10 minutes due to the uproar.

Final Day of Session Highlights Anti-Drug Message

On the last day of the winter session, both ruling and opposition MLAs donned jerseys emblazoned with the slogan 'Chitta Mukt Himachal – Ek Naya Himachal' to convey a unified stance against the escalating drug issue. The day's activities began with the question hour shortly thereafter.