Current Affairs 1st to 15th Dec

Current Affairs 1st to 15th Dec

1.   About the News

The Himachal Pradesh government has initiated the process of creating new Gram Panchayats and re-demarcating existing ones in preparation for the 2025 Panchayat elections, scheduled for December. This move is expected to increase the current number of Gram Panchayats from 3,615 and ensure effective local governance. Proposals for the creation of new Panchayats and boundary redefinition have been sought from all Deputy Commissioners.

Highlights

• Proposals for New Panchayats: Deputy Commissioners have been directed to submit proposals for the formation of new Panchayats and re-demarcation of existing ones.
• Impact on Boundaries and Reservations: Changes to Panchayat boundaries will also necessitate a revision of the reservation roster, which must be finalized by April 2025.
• Historical Precedent: New Panchayats are typically created before each election. During the 2020 elections, 412 new Panchayats were proposed, and 389 were officially formed after re-demarcation.
• Minister’s Statement: Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh confirmed that the decision to form new Panchayats will be based on proposals and regulatory compliance.

Procedure to established New Panchayat : According to the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, the creation of a new Gram Panchayat is governed by specific provisions. The government may establish a Gram Panchayat based on population and geographical considerations:

1. Population Requirement: A Gram Sabha area is typically constituted for a population of not less than 1,000 and not more than 5,000. However, exceptions can be made in scheduled areas or regions with specific geographical or transport challenges.
2. Government’s Role: The State Government, through notification and after a proposal’s prior publication, can:
   • Increase a Sabha area by including more villages.
   • Diminish a Sabha area by excluding villages.
   • Change the headquarters of the Sabha area.
   • Alter the Sabha area’s name.
   • Declare that an area ceases to be a Sabha area.
3. Administrative Flexibility: The government considers administrative convenience, geographical location, and communication facilities when making such decisions​.

Key challenges to Panchayats as outlined in the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, include:

1. Financial Constraints:
   • Limited revenue generation capacity and dependence on grants from the state government.
   • Difficulty in recovering arrears and imposing taxes effectively​.
2. Administrative Issues:
   • Mismanagement and lack of professional staff for efficient functioning​.
   • Bureaucratic delays in approvals for developmental works and fund utilization​.
3. Dispute Resolution and Legal Challenges:
   • Frequent disputes between Panchayats and other local authorities, often requiring state intervention​.
   • Legal irregularities in resolutions or licenses issued by Panchayats, leading to state-mandated suspensions​.
4. Capacity and Accountability:
   • Absence of adequate training and capacity building for Panchayat members.
   • Challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability, including issues of fund mismanagement

2.   News on Bhai Hirdaram’s 139th Birth Anniversary Celebration

The 139th birth anniversary of Bhai Hirdaram, a prominent freedom fighter, was celebrated with reverence in Mandi at his statue in Indira Market. Floral tributes were paid by members of the Bhai Hirdaram Memorial Committee, his grandson Shamser Singh Manhas, Mandi Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Madhuri Kapoor, and other dignitaries. Speakers recalled his sacrifices and pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, acknowledging his legacy as an inspiration for the younger generation.

Deputy Mayor Madhuri Kapoor highlighted his contributions, thanking author KK Nutan for documenting his life. She noted Bhai Hirdaram’s imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail alongside Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Nutan, the committee secretary, praised his patriotism and his leadership in establishing the Ghadar Party, emphasizing the need to educate youth about his revolutionary spirit.

About Bhai Hirdaram

Bhai Hirdaram was born on November 28, 1885, in Mandi to Gajjan Singh. Despite financial challenges, he developed a deep interest in revolutionary literature, which ignited his patriotism. After completing his studies, he worked as a goldsmith but was drawn into the freedom struggle. His wife, Sarla Devi, supported him during his endeavors.

He became a key figure in the revolutionary movement, establishing the Ghadar Party in San Francisco in 1913 alongside leaders like Lala Hardayal. He trained under Rash Behari Bose in bomb-making and worked clandestinely in forested areas to avoid British surveillance.

Key Contributions of Bhai Hirdaram

1. Role in Ghadar Party: Played a pivotal role in the party’s establishment, fostering revolutionary activities.
2. Bomb-Making Expertise: Trained by Rash Behari Bose, he contributed to armed resistance against British rule.
3. Imprisonment and Torture: Arrested by the British, he was sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail due to his wife’s appeal. He endured immense hardships but returned home in 1929.
4. Unrecognized Patriot: Despite his sacrifices, Bhai Hirdaram received no official recognition post-independence.

His legacy remains a source of inspiration, and efforts continue to keep his memory alive through such commemorative events.

3.   About the News

The news highlights the 49th meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Tribal Advisory Council chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Highlights of the News

1. Buddhist Tourism Circuit & Heliports: Plans to promote tourism and create self-employment opportunities in tribal districts, including Kinnaur, Lahaul, and Spiti, focusing on monasteries like Tabo, Dhankar, Key, and Kaza.
2. Budget Allocation: Rs 890.28 crore under the Tribal Sub Plan and Tribal Area Development Programme and Rs 1,145.46 crore under non-plan expenditure for 2024-25.
3. Land Transfer Regulation Act Amendment: Central approval now enables tribal people to secure loans without prior state approval.
4. Educational Initiatives: Construction of Eklavya Model Residential Schools in Pangi and Kukumseri and tribal Bhawans in Rampur, Chamba, and Nurpur.

About Tribal Rights and Nautor

• Tribal Rights: Tribal residents’ development challenges like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and land rights were discussed. ‘Nautor’ land rights are a priority to empower tribal communities.
• Explanation of Nautor:
  • ‘Nautor’ refers to the allocation of government-owned wasteland to tribal people in rural areas for agriculture, horticulture, or other permissible uses.
  • Approval depends on availability and is granted by appropriate authorities, excluding protected forests.
  • It provides an opportunity for tribal residents to utilize unused land for their economic and social upliftment.

Tourism Circuit in Himachal :

Satluj Circuit: The Sutlej Circuit derives its name from the ancient river Sutlej. It passes through snow covered majestic Himalayas, forests of pine, oak and deodar, across stone fruit and apple orchards and through the Shiwalik foot hills. This circuit covers Delhi – Parwanoo – Kasaul i- Barog – Solan – Chail – Hatkoti – Rampur – Sarahan – Narkanda – Naldehra – Tattapani – Shimla – Kiarighat – Delhi. This circuit also includes Renuka, Paonta Sahib and Nahan.

Beas Circuit :  The Beas Circuit derives its name from the ancient river Beas. It passes through the highly picturesque Kullu – Mandi regions. The main attractions are the flower filled meadows, terraced fields of paddy, maize, apple orchards and the sparkling Beas river. This circuit covers Delhi – Swarghat – Bilaspur – Mandi – Rewalsar – Kullu – Manali – Rohtang – Naggar – Manikaran – Delhi (1335 km)

Dhauladhar Circuit : The Dhauladhar Circuit derives its name from the Dhauladhar peaks of Western Himalaya. It passes in the shadow of the mighty and majestic snow clad Dhauldhar ranges, which dominates the beautiful Kangra valley, dotted by flower filled meadows, temples, tea gardens and flocks of sheep. This circuit covers Delhi – Chintpurni – Jwalamukhi – Kangra – Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Chamba – Dharamsala – Chamunda – Palampur – Jogindernagar – Delhi.

Tribal circuit : Passing through a spectacular terrain of River Valleys, Cold Desert Mountains, High Passes, Snow Capped Peaks, Icy Lakes, Mighty Glaciers, an exotic tribal country dotted by monasteries, yaks and lamas. This circuit covers Delhi – Shimla – Sarahan – Sangla – Kalpa – Nako – Tabo – Dhankar – Pin Vally – Kaza – Losar – Kunzum – Koksar – Sissu – Tandi – Udaipur – Trilokpur – Rohtang Pass – Manali – Delhi.

4.   Ropeway Connecting Baglamukhi Temple to Highway Begins Operations

Inauguration and Key Details

The 800-meter ropeway connecting Mata Baglamukhi Temple at Mandi’s Bakhli to Pandoh on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway was inaugurated on December 3, 2024, by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Constructed at a cost of ₹53.89 crore, this project is expected to be a game-changer for tourism in the region.

Enhanced Accessibility and Efficiency

Operating at a speed of 6 meters per second, the ropeway can transport up to 600 passengers per hour. It bypasses 14 kilometers of road travel, offering a faster and more efficient route to the temple.

Unique Features

This is Himachal Pradesh’s first ropeway to traverse a water body—the Pandoh Dam reservoir. Passengers can enjoy a stunning aerial journey, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills and the serene reservoir below.

Tourism Boost

The ropeway aims to promote religious tourism, making it more convenient for devotees and tourists to visit the revered Baglamukhi Temple while providing a memorable travel experience.

Artificial Snow Initiative Boosts Tourism at Sissu Amid Dry Spell

About the News

The prolonged dry spell in the Kullu-Manali and Lahaul-Spiti regions, which left the area without natural snowfall, led to an innovative solution by local tourism stakeholders. Amit Thakur, owner of Lapiti Cafe in Sissu, and his associate Vivek, an adventure enthusiast, introduced artificial snowmaking to maintain tourist interest. This initiative, set up opposite the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway, helped attract visitors and sustain the local tourism-dependent economy during a challenging period.

Highlights

• Innovative Solution: Artificial snow was created to replicate the experience of natural snowfall, providing tourists with a winter-like experience.
• Economic Impact: The lack of natural snow had caused a decline in tourist footfall, impacting local businesses. This initiative revived tourist interest, offering relief to the struggling tourism sector.
• Technology Used: Machines capable of producing artificial snow were installed, ensuring a snowy ambiance even in the absence of natural snowfall.
• Tourist Experience: The initiative provided visitors with the chance to enjoy scenic views and snowy landscapes, keeping the region attractive for winter tourism.

What is Artificial Snow?

Artificial snow is a man-made alternative to natural snowfall, created using specialized machines. The process involves:

• Combining water and air under high pressure to produce fine droplets.
• These droplets are released into the cold air, where they freeze into tiny ice particles, mimicking real snowflakes.
• The artificial snow is designed to provide an authentic winter experience, enhancing the visual appeal and recreational value of tourist destinations.

Himachal CM Launches New Schemes on Government’s 2-Year Anniversary

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Wednesday, celebrated the two-year anniversary of his government by launching six new schemes and distributing financial assistance to beneficiaries at Luhnu Ground, Bilaspur. The initiatives focus on natural farming, education, self-employment, horticulture, healthcare, and social welfare.

Promotion of Natural Farming

• Him Bhog Atta: Introduced to promote natural farming, this flour is prepared from maize cultivated using eco-friendly methods.
• Support to Farmers:
  • 398 metric tonnes of maize were procured from 1,506 farmers, and ₹1.2 crore was transferred to their accounts.
  • Himachal Pradesh offers the country’s highest support price for wheat at ₹40 per kg and maize at ₹30 per kg.
  • Over 36,000 farmers will be added under the Rajiv Gandhi Natural Farming Start-up Scheme this year.
• Organic Compost Scheme: Farmers and livestock owners can sell organic compost and vermicompost to the government at ₹300 per quintal, with ₹1 lakh distributed to 100 farmers via DBT.

Support for Self-Employment

• Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme 2023:
  • CM handed keys to 16 electric taxi owners. Beneficiaries received a 50% subsidy for purchasing e-taxis leased to government offices for five years.
  • The first phase aims to issue 150 e-taxi permits.

Welfare of Women and Children

• Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana:
  • ₹1.38 crore disbursed to 5,145 beneficiaries.
  • The scheme targets education and well-being for 23,000 children of widows, destitute women, and disabled parents, offering ₹1,000 monthly and financial aid for higher education.
  • Annual budget: ₹53.21 crore.

Horticulture Development

• HP Shiva Project:
  • ₹1,292 crore initiative to expand horticulture across seven districts, covering 6,000 hectares.
  • Expected annual output: 1.3 lakh metric tonnes of fruit by 2032, valued at ₹400 crore.

Healthcare for Remote Areas

• Mobile Ayush Healthcare Units:
  • Five mobile units flagged off to serve tribal and remote regions like Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, and Shillai block of Sirmaur district.
  • Units will offer Ayurveda, Unani, and Homeopathy treatments tailored to local needs.

Social Welfare Initiatives

• Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana:
  • ₹1.9 crore distributed to 197 beneficiaries in Bilaspur district.
  • Support included pensions, housing grants, marriage and education aid, and vocational training.

These schemes reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development, emphasizing agriculture, education, healthcare, and self-reliance.

5.   About the News

The “Chalo Chamba” campaign, initiated by the Chamba district administration in collaboration with Not On Map, gained prominence at the 6th Himalayan Orange Tourism Festival (HOTF) held in Kolkata. Organized by the Association for Conservation and Tourism (ACT), the festival celebrated the Himalayan region’s rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty. The campaign highlighted Chamba’s historical, religious, and ecological attractions while promoting sustainable tourism.

Highlights

• The 6th Himalayan Orange Tourism Festival featured cultural performances and exhibits from North Bengal, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, drawing over 60,000 visitors.
• Inaugurated by dignitaries including West Bengal’s Minister of State for Fire and Emergency Services, Sujit Basu, and consuls from Nepal, Bhutan, and Russia, the festival emphasized cultural exchange.
• Chamba’s stall showcased the region’s pristine locales, community-based tourism, and sustainable travel experiences, receiving widespread acclaim.
• Raj Basu, known as the “Tourism Gandhi of India,” praised the campaign, underlining the importance of community-driven tourism in Himalayan regions.

About the “Chalo Chamba” Campaign

The “Chalo Chamba” campaign aims to unlock the tourism potential of Chamba, one of India’s 112 Aspirational Districts identified by NITI Aayog for developmental focus due to high poverty and limited livelihood opportunities.

Key Features of Chamba District:

• Rich biodiversity, historical temples, high mountains, glaciers, lakes, and trekking routes.
• Cultural heritage, including crafts and religious sites.
• Significant potential for eco-tourism, agro-tourism, and hydropower development.

Objectives of the Campaign:

• Showcase unexplored tourist destinations and encourage sustainable travel.
• Provide employment opportunities for local youth, many of whom returned to Chamba after losing jobs in the tourism sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Promote community-based rural tourism by collaborating with stakeholders and enhancing Chamba’s visibility as a tourism destination.

 1.   About the News

The Himachal Pradesh government has initiated the process of creating new Gram Panchayats and re-demarcating existing ones in preparation for the 2025 Panchayat elections, scheduled for December. This move is expected to increase the current number of Gram Panchayats from 3,615 and ensure effective local governance. Proposals for the creation of new Panchayats and boundary redefinition have been sought from all Deputy Commissioners.

Highlights

• Proposals for New Panchayats: Deputy Commissioners have been directed to submit proposals for the formation of new Panchayats and re-demarcation of existing ones.
• Impact on Boundaries and Reservations: Changes to Panchayat boundaries will also necessitate a revision of the reservation roster, which must be finalized by April 2025.
• Historical Precedent: New Panchayats are typically created before each election. During the 2020 elections, 412 new Panchayats were proposed, and 389 were officially formed after re-demarcation.
• Minister’s Statement: Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh confirmed that the decision to form new Panchayats will be based on proposals and regulatory compliance.

Procedure to established New Panchayat : According to the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, the creation of a new Gram Panchayat is governed by specific provisions. The government may establish a Gram Panchayat based on population and geographical considerations:

1. Population Requirement: A Gram Sabha area is typically constituted for a population of not less than 1,000 and not more than 5,000. However, exceptions can be made in scheduled areas or regions with specific geographical or transport challenges.
2. Government’s Role: The State Government, through notification and after a proposal’s prior publication, can:
   • Increase a Sabha area by including more villages.
   • Diminish a Sabha area by excluding villages.
   • Change the headquarters of the Sabha area.
   • Alter the Sabha area’s name.
   • Declare that an area ceases to be a Sabha area.
3. Administrative Flexibility: The government considers administrative convenience, geographical location, and communication facilities when making such decisions​.

Key challenges to Panchayats as outlined in the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, include:

1. Financial Constraints:
   • Limited revenue generation capacity and dependence on grants from the state government.
   • Difficulty in recovering arrears and imposing taxes effectively​.
2. Administrative Issues:
   • Mismanagement and lack of professional staff for efficient functioning​.
   • Bureaucratic delays in approvals for developmental works and fund utilization​.
3. Dispute Resolution and Legal Challenges:
   • Frequent disputes between Panchayats and other local authorities, often requiring state intervention​.
   • Legal irregularities in resolutions or licenses issued by Panchayats, leading to state-mandated suspensions​.
4. Capacity and Accountability:
   • Absence of adequate training and capacity building for Panchayat members.
   • Challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability, including issues of fund mismanagement

2.   News on Bhai Hirdaram’s 139th Birth Anniversary Celebration

The 139th birth anniversary of Bhai Hirdaram, a prominent freedom fighter, was celebrated with reverence in Mandi at his statue in Indira Market. Floral tributes were paid by members of the Bhai Hirdaram Memorial Committee, his grandson Shamser Singh Manhas, Mandi Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Madhuri Kapoor, and other dignitaries. Speakers recalled his sacrifices and pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, acknowledging his legacy as an inspiration for the younger generation.

Deputy Mayor Madhuri Kapoor highlighted his contributions, thanking author KK Nutan for documenting his life. She noted Bhai Hirdaram’s imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail alongside Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Nutan, the committee secretary, praised his patriotism and his leadership in establishing the Ghadar Party, emphasizing the need to educate youth about his revolutionary spirit.

About Bhai Hirdaram

Bhai Hirdaram was born on November 28, 1885, in Mandi to Gajjan Singh. Despite financial challenges, he developed a deep interest in revolutionary literature, which ignited his patriotism. After completing his studies, he worked as a goldsmith but was drawn into the freedom struggle. His wife, Sarla Devi, supported him during his endeavors.

He became a key figure in the revolutionary movement, establishing the Ghadar Party in San Francisco in 1913 alongside leaders like Lala Hardayal. He trained under Rash Behari Bose in bomb-making and worked clandestinely in forested areas to avoid British surveillance.

Key Contributions of Bhai Hirdaram

1. Role in Ghadar Party: Played a pivotal role in the party’s establishment, fostering revolutionary activities.
2. Bomb-Making Expertise: Trained by Rash Behari Bose, he contributed to armed resistance against British rule.
3. Imprisonment and Torture: Arrested by the British, he was sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail due to his wife’s appeal. He endured immense hardships but returned home in 1929.
4. Unrecognized Patriot: Despite his sacrifices, Bhai Hirdaram received no official recognition post-independence.

His legacy remains a source of inspiration, and efforts continue to keep his memory alive through such commemorative events.

3.   About the News

The news highlights the 49th meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Tribal Advisory Council chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Highlights of the News

1. Buddhist Tourism Circuit & Heliports: Plans to promote tourism and create self-employment opportunities in tribal districts, including Kinnaur, Lahaul, and Spiti, focusing on monasteries like Tabo, Dhankar, Key, and Kaza.
2. Budget Allocation: Rs 890.28 crore under the Tribal Sub Plan and Tribal Area Development Programme and Rs 1,145.46 crore under non-plan expenditure for 2024-25.
3. Land Transfer Regulation Act Amendment: Central approval now enables tribal people to secure loans without prior state approval.
4. Educational Initiatives: Construction of Eklavya Model Residential Schools in Pangi and Kukumseri and tribal Bhawans in Rampur, Chamba, and Nurpur.

About Tribal Rights and Nautor

• Tribal Rights: Tribal residents’ development challenges like education, healthcare, infrastructure, and land rights were discussed. ‘Nautor’ land rights are a priority to empower tribal communities.
• Explanation of Nautor:
  • ‘Nautor’ refers to the allocation of government-owned wasteland to tribal people in rural areas for agriculture, horticulture, or other permissible uses.
  • Approval depends on availability and is granted by appropriate authorities, excluding protected forests.
  • It provides an opportunity for tribal residents to utilize unused land for their economic and social upliftment.

Tourism Circuit in Himachal :

Satluj Circuit: The Sutlej Circuit derives its name from the ancient river Sutlej. It passes through snow covered majestic Himalayas, forests of pine, oak and deodar, across stone fruit and apple orchards and through the Shiwalik foot hills. This circuit covers Delhi – Parwanoo – Kasaul i- Barog – Solan – Chail – Hatkoti – Rampur – Sarahan – Narkanda – Naldehra – Tattapani – Shimla – Kiarighat – Delhi. This circuit also includes Renuka, Paonta Sahib and Nahan.

Beas Circuit :  The Beas Circuit derives its name from the ancient river Beas. It passes through the highly picturesque Kullu – Mandi regions. The main attractions are the flower filled meadows, terraced fields of paddy, maize, apple orchards and the sparkling Beas river. This circuit covers Delhi – Swarghat – Bilaspur – Mandi – Rewalsar – Kullu – Manali – Rohtang – Naggar – Manikaran – Delhi (1335 km)

Dhauladhar Circuit : The Dhauladhar Circuit derives its name from the Dhauladhar peaks of Western Himalaya. It passes in the shadow of the mighty and majestic snow clad Dhauldhar ranges, which dominates the beautiful Kangra valley, dotted by flower filled meadows, temples, tea gardens and flocks of sheep. This circuit covers Delhi – Chintpurni – Jwalamukhi – Kangra – Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Chamba – Dharamsala – Chamunda – Palampur – Jogindernagar – Delhi.

Tribal circuit : Passing through a spectacular terrain of River Valleys, Cold Desert Mountains, High Passes, Snow Capped Peaks, Icy Lakes, Mighty Glaciers, an exotic tribal country dotted by monasteries, yaks and lamas. This circuit covers Delhi – Shimla – Sarahan – Sangla – Kalpa – Nako – Tabo – Dhankar – Pin Vally – Kaza – Losar – Kunzum – Koksar – Sissu – Tandi – Udaipur – Trilokpur – Rohtang Pass – Manali – Delhi.

4.   Ropeway Connecting Baglamukhi Temple to Highway Begins Operations

Inauguration and Key Details

The 800-meter ropeway connecting Mata Baglamukhi Temple at Mandi’s Bakhli to Pandoh on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway was inaugurated on December 3, 2024, by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. Constructed at a cost of ₹53.89 crore, this project is expected to be a game-changer for tourism in the region.

Enhanced Accessibility and Efficiency

Operating at a speed of 6 meters per second, the ropeway can transport up to 600 passengers per hour. It bypasses 14 kilometers of road travel, offering a faster and more efficient route to the temple.

Unique Features

This is Himachal Pradesh’s first ropeway to traverse a water body—the Pandoh Dam reservoir. Passengers can enjoy a stunning aerial journey, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills and the serene reservoir below.

Tourism Boost

The ropeway aims to promote religious tourism, making it more convenient for devotees and tourists to visit the revered Baglamukhi Temple while providing a memorable travel experience.

Artificial Snow Initiative Boosts Tourism at Sissu Amid Dry Spell

About the News

The prolonged dry spell in the Kullu-Manali and Lahaul-Spiti regions, which left the area without natural snowfall, led to an innovative solution by local tourism stakeholders. Amit Thakur, owner of Lapiti Cafe in Sissu, and his associate Vivek, an adventure enthusiast, introduced artificial snowmaking to maintain tourist interest. This initiative, set up opposite the Atal Tunnel on the Manali-Leh highway, helped attract visitors and sustain the local tourism-dependent economy during a challenging period.

Highlights

• Innovative Solution: Artificial snow was created to replicate the experience of natural snowfall, providing tourists with a winter-like experience.
• Economic Impact: The lack of natural snow had caused a decline in tourist footfall, impacting local businesses. This initiative revived tourist interest, offering relief to the struggling tourism sector.
• Technology Used: Machines capable of producing artificial snow were installed, ensuring a snowy ambiance even in the absence of natural snowfall.
• Tourist Experience: The initiative provided visitors with the chance to enjoy scenic views and snowy landscapes, keeping the region attractive for winter tourism.

What is Artificial Snow?

Artificial snow is a man-made alternative to natural snowfall, created using specialized machines. The process involves:

• Combining water and air under high pressure to produce fine droplets.
• These droplets are released into the cold air, where they freeze into tiny ice particles, mimicking real snowflakes.
• The artificial snow is designed to provide an authentic winter experience, enhancing the visual appeal and recreational value of tourist destinations.

Himachal CM Launches New Schemes on Government’s 2-Year Anniversary

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Wednesday, celebrated the two-year anniversary of his government by launching six new schemes and distributing financial assistance to beneficiaries at Luhnu Ground, Bilaspur. The initiatives focus on natural farming, education, self-employment, horticulture, healthcare, and social welfare.

Promotion of Natural Farming

• Him Bhog Atta: Introduced to promote natural farming, this flour is prepared from maize cultivated using eco-friendly methods.
• Support to Farmers:
  • 398 metric tonnes of maize were procured from 1,506 farmers, and ₹1.2 crore was transferred to their accounts.
  • Himachal Pradesh offers the country’s highest support price for wheat at ₹40 per kg and maize at ₹30 per kg.
  • Over 36,000 farmers will be added under the Rajiv Gandhi Natural Farming Start-up Scheme this year.
• Organic Compost Scheme: Farmers and livestock owners can sell organic compost and vermicompost to the government at ₹300 per quintal, with ₹1 lakh distributed to 100 farmers via DBT.

Support for Self-Employment

• Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme 2023:
  • CM handed keys to 16 electric taxi owners. Beneficiaries received a 50% subsidy for purchasing e-taxis leased to government offices for five years.
  • The first phase aims to issue 150 e-taxi permits.

Welfare of Women and Children

• Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojana:
  • ₹1.38 crore disbursed to 5,145 beneficiaries.
  • The scheme targets education and well-being for 23,000 children of widows, destitute women, and disabled parents, offering ₹1,000 monthly and financial aid for higher education.
  • Annual budget: ₹53.21 crore.

Horticulture Development

• HP Shiva Project:
  • ₹1,292 crore initiative to expand horticulture across seven districts, covering 6,000 hectares.
  • Expected annual output: 1.3 lakh metric tonnes of fruit by 2032, valued at ₹400 crore.

Healthcare for Remote Areas

• Mobile Ayush Healthcare Units:
  • Five mobile units flagged off to serve tribal and remote regions like Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, and Shillai block of Sirmaur district.
  • Units will offer Ayurveda, Unani, and Homeopathy treatments tailored to local needs.

Social Welfare Initiatives

• Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana:
  • ₹1.9 crore distributed to 197 beneficiaries in Bilaspur district.
  • Support included pensions, housing grants, marriage and education aid, and vocational training.

These schemes reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development, emphasizing agriculture, education, healthcare, and self-reliance.

5.   About the News

The “Chalo Chamba” campaign, initiated by the Chamba district administration in collaboration with Not On Map, gained prominence at the 6th Himalayan Orange Tourism Festival (HOTF) held in Kolkata. Organized by the Association for Conservation and Tourism (ACT), the festival celebrated the Himalayan region’s rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty. The campaign highlighted Chamba’s historical, religious, and ecological attractions while promoting sustainable tourism.

Highlights

• The 6th Himalayan Orange Tourism Festival featured cultural performances and exhibits from North Bengal, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, drawing over 60,000 visitors.
• Inaugurated by dignitaries including West Bengal’s Minister of State for Fire and Emergency Services, Sujit Basu, and consuls from Nepal, Bhutan, and Russia, the festival emphasized cultural exchange.
• Chamba’s stall showcased the region’s pristine locales, community-based tourism, and sustainable travel experiences, receiving widespread acclaim.
• Raj Basu, known as the “Tourism Gandhi of India,” praised the campaign, underlining the importance of community-driven tourism in Himalayan regions.

About the “Chalo Chamba” Campaign

The “Chalo Chamba” campaign aims to unlock the tourism potential of Chamba, one of India’s 112 Aspirational Districts identified by NITI Aayog for developmental focus due to high poverty and limited livelihood opportunities.

Key Features of Chamba District:

• Rich biodiversity, historical temples, high mountains, glaciers, lakes, and trekking routes.
• Cultural heritage, including crafts and religious sites.
• Significant potential for eco-tourism, agro-tourism, and hydropower development.

Objectives of the Campaign:

• Showcase unexplored tourist destinations and encourage sustainable travel.
• Provide employment opportunities for local youth, many of whom returned to Chamba after losing jobs in the tourism sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Promote community-based rural tourism by collaborating with stakeholders and enhancing Chamba’s visibility as a tourism destination.