Himachal Cabinet Revamps Social Security, Hydro Projects

The Himachal Pradesh cabinet approved amendments redefining 'destitute' women for social security pensions, discussed election rule changes, cancelled hydroelectric projects, and increased heli-taxi services. The cabinet also approved a new milk union and addressed funding challenges in the Jal Shakti department.

In a landmark move, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet has approved amendments to the Social Security Pension Rules, 2010, which redefine 'destitute' women. Women abandoned by their husbands and without independent income will now qualify for benefits under state government initiatives.

Chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the cabinet decided to seek public input on proposed changes to the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj (Elections) Rules, 1994. Meanwhile, the cabinet aimed to invigorate the energy sector by cancelling 15 stalled hydroelectric projects and allotting the Pandoh Hydro Electric Project to BBMB, securing a power share for the state.

The cabinet also approved enhancing heli-taxi services and addressed staffing requirements in multiple departments. Additionally, it established the Regional Cooperative Milk Producers Union Limited in Kangra district and tackled funding issues in the Jal Shakti department due to delayed central funds.