Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently underscored the Himachal Pradesh government’s dedication to uplifting disadvantaged segments of society. In a statement, the CM noted that different schemes have been launched to enable underprivileged communities to live with dignity.
One such initiative provides a grant of Rs. 1.50 lakh for house construction to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes earning less than Rs. 50,000 annually. About 1,150 homeless persons benefited under this scheme last fiscal, with Rs. 17.25 crore spent.
The government also aims to make weaker sections self-reliant through vocational training and assistance to start enterprises. Computer training is offered free of cost to children from disadvantaged backgrounds. A monthly stipend of Rs. 1,000 is given during training, rising to Rs. 1,500 for a six-month post-training job in government offices. Over 3,637 individuals have gained from this to date.
Other areas covered include education, health, social and economic programs, skill development, drinking water, sports, sanitation and solar energy targeted at minority communities. A common facility center costing Rs. 12.77 crore is under construction at Kaza, with 11 minority-focused projects sanctioned involving Rs. 25.45 crore.
By promoting inclusive growth and empowerment, the state hopes to create a equitable society with widespread access to resources and opportunities, concluded the CM. The commitment aims to uplift living standards and fulfill basic needs of vulnerable populations.
