Himachal Pradesh CM Unveils INR 100 Crore Plan To Boost Tourism

In a bid to boost tourism activities in the picturesque Pong Dam area, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed plans for initiatives totalling Rs 100 crore during a statement recently. The Chief Minister made these announcements while presiding over the "Sarkar Gaon Ke Dwar" program at Nakki village in Kangra district.

Addressing the public, Sukhu emphasised the government's commitment to designating the region adjoining Pong Dam as an eco-sensitive zone, aligning with the local community's interests.

Additionally, he highlighted ongoing efforts to fortify the rural economy, citing a noteworthy increase of INR 6 in milk purchase rates. Sukhu also disclosed plans for the construction of a state-of-the-art INR 250 crore milk processing plant in Dhagwar, Kangra district.

Moreover, the CM shared positive developments in the employment sector, announcing the creation of 20,000 jobs in the government sector. To further empower the youth, he unveiled the INR 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi self-employment start-up scheme, aiming to provide self-employment opportunities.

During the event, Sukhu inaugurated four projects valued at INR 11.32 crore, showcasing the government's commitment to infrastructure development. Additionally, he distributed financial assistance cheques of INR 31,000 each to 10 beneficiaries under the Shagun Yojana, an initiative supporting individuals with wedding-related expenses.

Meanwhile, after a prolonged dry spell in January, Himachal Pradesh is set to experience snowfall starting January 25, as per the local Met office. The higher hills are expected to witness isolated snowfall, with both higher and lower hills likely to experience snow and rainfall on January 26 and 27. The entire state is anticipated to have widespread snow, rainfall, and thunderstorms in isolated areas on January 28.

So far, Himachal Pradesh has recorded only 0.1 mm of precipitation this year, highlighting the significance of the upcoming weather change. The current weather in the region has been dry, with dense fog reported in lower hills and plains on Tuesday. The minimum temperature in key locations like Shimla, Dharamshala, Manali, Kufri, and Mandi varies, with Kukumseri village in Lahaul and Spiti district recording the lowest temperature at minus 8.1 degrees Celsius. The anticipation of snowfall brings hope for residents and tourists, adding a wintry touch to the landscape after a relatively dry period.