HP CM Sukhu announces Rs 1 crore for stadium on Maharana Pratap fete

HP CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced Rs 1 crore for an indoor stadium at Maharana Pratap International Public School in Kangra. Speaking at the ruler's birth anniversary, he urged youth to emulate his ideals and highlighted government achievements.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced Rs 1 crore for the construction of an indoor stadium at Maharana Pratap International Public School, Pathiar, while paying tributes to Veer Shiromani Maharana Pratap, whom he described as an enduring symbol of sacrifice, self-respect, freedom and patriotism. He also honoured meritorious students and released a souvenir to commemorate the occasion, according to a release.

Addressing a function organised to mark the 487th birth anniversary of Maharana Pratap at Dharamgiri Pathiar in Kangra district, CM Sukhu said the legendary ruler was not only a fearless warrior but also a visionary leader who upheld his principles in the face of adversity. Referring to the battle of Haldighati, he said it continues to "symbolize courage, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to freedom and honour."

Vision for a Self-Reliant Himachal

Urging the youth to emulate Maharana Pratap's ideals, CM Sukhu called upon them to embrace the values of sacrifice, discipline and national service while contributing to national unity and social harmony. He said, "The state government was committed to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and prosperous through good governance, rural development, quality education, skill enhancement and environmental conservation."

Highlighting the state's rich tradition of patriotism, he recalled the sacrifices of decorated soldiers, including Major Somnath Sharma, Colonel D.S. Thapa, Captain Vikram Batra and Subedar Major Sanjay and also lauded Flight Lieutenant Arshveer Singh Thakur of Jubbal for his exemplary courage during Operation Sindoor.

Strengthening State's Economy and Interests

The Chief Minister said the government was steadfastly working to safeguard the interests of the state and strengthen its economy. He said, "The sustained efforts have paved the way for the implementation of the 422 MW Kishau Dam Project, with the Union Government agreeing in principle that beneficiary states would bear nearly Rs. 2,000 crore towards Himachal Pradesh's power component, significantly reducing the state's financial burden. Once completed, the project is expected to provide around 100 crore units of electricity annually, generating an estimated revenue of nearly Rs 600 crore."

He further said the government has generated additional revenue worth thousands of crores over the past two and a half years through prudent financial management while vigorously pursuing the state's legitimate claims before the Centre. He added that the government was seeking enhancement of the Green Bonus and had urged the Prime Minister to constitute a high-level committee for the hill state to assess the losses incurred on account of the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG). He said that the state was also reclaiming the 110 MW Shanan Power Project and recovering pending dues from the Bhakra Beas Management Board.

Reforms in Education Sector

Speaking on education reforms, the Chief Minister said "Himachal Pradesh has emerged as a national leader by achieving 100 per cent literacy and securing a place among the top five States in the National Achievement Survey. The government has introduced English-medium education from Class I, established Rajiv Gandhi Day-Boarding Schools, adopted the CBSE curriculum in selected government schools, recruited over 5,400 teachers and expanded vocational and skill-based education to prepare students for future challenges." (ANI)

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