SHIMLA -19 September, 2025
CM lauds the efforts of Army and Kangra administration in safeguarding lives
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has commended the swift and coordinated response of the Indian Army, the Kangra district administration, and local residents in the aftermath of the recent landslides that struck Bachwai village in Thural. Acknowledging their tireless efforts, the Chief Minister stated that stranded villagers were safely evacuated to secure locations. He further noted the recovery of household valuables and belongings of 13 affected families from severely damaged houses, carried out under highly challenging conditions.
He emphasized that through their dedication, the army and district administration not only safeguarded lives and property but also instilled hope among the affected families, further strengthening the bond of trust between the Army and the local community.
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Apple season records higher market arrivals despite damaged roads
· Record 55,000 metric tonnes apple procurement done through HPMC
Despite the havoc caused by torrential rains across Himachal Pradesh and extensive damage to roads, a total of 1,73,74,204 apple boxes (20 kg each) have reached various markets between 27 June 2025 and 15 September 2025. This marks a significant increase compared to 1,23,18,924 boxes during the same period last year. This has been made possible due to the continuous supervision of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and the relentless efforts of the Public Works Department (PWD). The damaged roads were either restored or temporarily reconnected in record time to ensure smooth transportation of apples. Even during peak damage, government machinery worked round the clock to facilitate apple growers.
A government spokesperson informed that from Shimla and Kinnaur APMC, 1,09,86,863 boxes were sold against 77,40,164 boxes last year. From Mandi APMC, 16,81,055 boxes were sold compared to 89,19,893 boxes last year. Solan APMC recorded sales of 24,90,835 boxes against 22,18,685 boxes, while Kullu APMC registered 20,88,374 boxes compared to 14,03,392 boxes in 2024.
The spokesperson added that the government is committed to ensuring smooth transportation and marketing of apples so that growers do not face any inconvenience.
In addition to ensuring smooth transportation of apples, the State Government has also extended benefits to orchardists under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). Through HPMC, procurement has crossed 55,000 metric tonnes, which is more than double compared to last year. To facilitate this, HPMC has set up 274 collection centres, where apple procurement is actively underway. However, due to road blockages in several areas, trucks are still unable to reach some centres. Taking prompt action, the Chief Minister has directed deployment of additional trucks to ensure timely lifting of apples.
Meanwhile, HPMC’s fruit processing plants at Parala (Shimla), Parwanoo (Solan) and Jarol (Mandi) are operating at full capacity, processing nearly 400 tonnes of apples daily. Despite adverse weather conditions, the State Government is making every possible effort to support apple growers, ensuring that they do not miss out on any financial benefits.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said: “The State Government is fully committed to safeguarding the interests of apple growers and ensuring their well-being. We have introduced the Universal Carton to guarantee remunerative prices and to put an end to the exploitation of horticulturists.”
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Rajiv Gandhi Government College, Nagrota Bagwan offers degree courses in Artificial Intelligence
Digital university on innovation, entrepreneurship, skill and vocational studies to be set up in Ghumarwin
The state government is committed to up-skill the youth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science because of its vast potential and good future opportunities with better employment and entrepreneurial prospects.
Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the State Government was making consistent efforts to transform Himachal into an IT hub of the country. With a rising demand for skilled professionals in the IT sector the state was actively working towards nurturing a capable workforce to meet National and global needs.
A significant initiative underway this financial year is the planned launch of drone taxi services. These would support the transformation of agricultural produce and medical supplies to remote regions of the state and would significantly improve the connectivity and service delivery in rural areas. To modernize the agriculture and horticulture practices, drone station would be set up in Hamirpur, Mandi and Kangra districts in the state.
Chief Minister said that drones have wide applications across sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, and healthcare. Encouraging drone technology is vital to achieving the goals of the ‘Green Himachal Vision’.
Apart from this to enhance service delivery the present state government was focused on creating employment and self-employment opportunities through drone technology. In the year 20224-25 a total of 243 youth have already received drone-related training through government ITI's across the state.
To further prepare the youth for future opportunities the state government has introduced cutting-edge courses in artificial intelligence and device science. Rajiv Gandhi Government College in Nagrota Bagwan would now offer degree courses in AI and data science. Similarly, new technical courses have been approved for other institutions, such as civil engineering degree at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pragatinagar, Shimla and a diploma in computer science and engineering (AI & Machine learning) at Government Polytechnic Sundernagar, Mandi. The required teaching staff would be provided to ensure the successful implementation of these courses.
The government was establishing a dedicated innovation fund of rupees two crore with an aim to boost the innovation ecosystem, besides supporting young innovators in turning their ideas into reality.
Apart from this, a digital university of innovation, entrepreneurship, skill and vocational studies would be set up at Ghumarwin in Bilaspur district through public-private partnership and self-financing model. This university would serve as a centre for nurturing entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking among youth.
The new avenues in the field of information and technology would lay a strong foundation for the empowerment of youth and also pave the way for economic prosperity of the state.
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133 Eco Task Force organises afforestation drive at GSSS Shakra
Pays tribute to those who lost their lives this monsoon
In a meaningful initiative to honour the resilience of the people of Himachal Pradesh affected by the recent monsoon floods and landslides, 'A' Company of 133 Eco Task Force (ETF) organized a tree plantation drive and community engagement program at Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS), Shakra.
Led by Company Commander Lt Col Lokesh Dhiman, the staff and nearly 100 students of the school actively participated in the plantation activity that reinforced the importance of restoring and protecting the fragile ecology of the region.
To pay respect to those affected by the natural calamities this monsoon, a two-minute silence was observed by all present. Lt Col Dhiman also conducted a 'Know Your Army' lecture, where he interacted with the students, highlighting the multifaceted role of the Indian Army in both defending the Nation and contributing to environmental and community welfare.
Expressing his gratitude the Principal of GSSS Shakra appreciated the continued efforts of the battalion in safeguarding the state’s ecology. He noted that such initiatives not only help conserve the environment but also inspire local communities and students to actively contribute towards ecological preservation.
The event served as a symbol of solidarity, bringing together the Army, educators, and youth to reaffirm their commitment to rebuilding and protecting Himachal Pradesh’s environment in the wake of this year’s devastating natural disasters.