The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has rolled out a series of key reforms focusing on workforce welfare and healthcare infrastructure. At the same time, the state government has approved a steep hike in the minimum bus fare, doubling it from Rs 5 to Rs 10 for journeys up to three kilometers.
In a major workforce reform, the Cabinet has approved the regularisation of contract, daily wage, and part-time workers across various government departments. This move addresses a long-standing demand from employee unions and is expected to benefit thousands of workers by providing them with greater job security and improved benefits.
On the healthcare front, the government has sanctioned the establishment of 50-bedded Critical Care Blocks in Bilaspur and Rohru. These new units will strengthen emergency and intensive care services, reducing the patient burden on larger hospitals in urban centres.
The fare change will further directly affect daily commuters, particularly those in rural and hilly areas who rely on short-distance travel. Furthermore, the fare hike is aimed at providing financial relief to both state-run and private bus operators struggling with increasing operational costs.
Additionally, the monthly stipend for government-employed doctors has been raised to Rs 1.30 lakh. This significant increase is aimed at retaining medical professionals and addressing staff shortages in public healthcare facilities.
In the energy sector, the state has moved to reclaim five hydroelectric projects currently under central PSUs, including the Bairasul project. Himachal plans to take control of construction and operations, with an independent evaluation agency to assess investments made so far.
The Cabinet also approved the re-auctioning of 400 liquor contracts, a step expected to boost state revenue and enforce better regulatory practices in the excise industry.
