Himachal CM Sukhu urges newly sworn-in PRI representatives to lead rural development and fight drugs
Shimla, June 15
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Monday called upon newly elected Panchayat representatives to play a proactive role in rural development and lead the fight against drug abuse, particularly the menace of heroin, while addressing a swearing-in ceremony of Panchayat Pradhans and Up-Pradhans in Shimla.
The oath-taking ceremony for newly elected Panchayat representatives from Shimla district was held at Hotel Peterhoff, where Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Rohit Thakur administered the oath of office and secrecy to Pradhans and Up-Pradhans from 441 Panchayats.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sukhu congratulated the newly elected representatives and expressed hope that their five-year tenure would prove to be a "golden period" for their respective Panchayats.
"Nearly 90 per cent of Himachal Pradesh's population lives in rural areas. If our villages and Panchayats develop, the state will move forward rapidly. Panchayat representatives have a crucial role in ensuring grassroots development and improving the lives of rural residents," Sukhu said.
The Chief Minister urged the elected representatives to work with dedication for public welfare, strengthen local governance, and address key issues affecting rural communities.
The Chief Minister also expressed condolences over a separate tragic incident involving the husband of a woman Panchayat representative.
"This is a very unfortunate incident. There have been various disputes related to the institution in the past as well. I will seek detailed information later. A meeting will be held after this programme, and I will share the latest status of the case," Sukhu told reporters.
Education Minister Rohit Thakur congratulated the newly elected representatives and said Panchayats remain the foundation of Himachal Pradesh's development framework.
"I extend my best wishes to all newly elected Pradhans, Up-Pradhans and members of Panchayati Raj institutions. Their contribution will be vital in fulfilling the aspirations of the people and accelerating rural development," Thakur said, while addressing the ceremony.
The newly elected Panchayat representatives outlined their priorities for local development while speaking to ANI.
Himi Devi, the newly elected Pradhan from Tarapur Panchayat, said improving roads, pathways and drinking water facilities would be her top priorities.
"When I visited every part of my Panchayat seeking votes, people highlighted the poor condition of roads and pathways. Children going to Anganwadis and schools face difficulties. My priority will be road construction, safe drinking water and ensuring that all government schemes reach every resident," Himi Devi said.
She also raised concerns over alleged environmental violations by some tourism establishments and said action would be sought against any activity affecting local water sources.
Nena Chauhan, the newly elected Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Bhanog, said she would actively support the government's anti-drug campaign.
"As advised by the Chief Minister and Education Minister, I will work to ensure that every family and every village in my Panchayat remains free from drugs. I will continue to work with the same trust and support that the people have shown in electing me," Chauhan said.
Hemraj Sharma, a newly elected Panchayat representative, said he would work without discrimination and focus on overall development.
"We have taken an oath with sincerity and commitment. We will remain dedicated to the development of our Panchayat and work for every resident without any discrimination. We will also strongly oppose drug abuse and work towards making our Panchayat free from chitta," Sharma said.
Kanshi Ram Sharma, who has been elected Pradhan of Baghu Panchayat for a third consecutive term, thanked residents for reposing faith in him once again.
"The major issues in my Panchayat include drinking water, roads, pathways and parking facilities. I pledge to complete pending development works and ensure the overall development of Baghu Panchayat over the next five years," Sharma said.
Referring to the anti-drug campaign, he added, "Drug abuse has become a serious concern across the country. We will cooperate fully with the administration and government to eliminate such activities from our area."
The ceremony witnessed participation from a large number of newly elected Panchayat representatives, who pledged to work collectively for development, public welfare and social reform initiatives across their respective regions.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm from a small village near Shimla and I can tell you, roads and drinking water are genuine issues. Every time it rains, our pathways become muddy messes. Kids walking to Anganwadis in such conditions is heartbreaking. Himi Devi from Tarapur is spot on. But I wish CM also focused on job creation in villages—without that, youth will keep migrating to cities. Still, it's a start. 👏
Good to see Panchayati Raj getting attention. But I'm a bit skeptical, yaar. We've heard these promises before. CM Sukhu talks about a golden period, but what about the tragic incident mentioned? That woman Panchayat rep's husband died? What was that about? CM said he'll 'seek detailed information'—hope it doesn't get swept under the carpet. Villages need transparency, not just speeches.
Chitta is a menace indeed. My cousin in Kullu got hooked a few years ago—it nearly destroyed our family. If these Panchayat reps take anti-drug campaigns seriously, it could save many more families. Nena Chauhan from Bhanog sounds committed. But actions need to follow words. And please, highlight the role of women in these new Panchayats—Himi Devi and others stepping up is inspiring! 🌸
I appreciate the focus on development without discrimination, as Hemraj Sharma said. But let's be real—90% rural population? That figure hasn't changed in decades because policies favour urban centres. Panchayats can only do so much without proper funds and autonomy. Also, CM and Education Minister both spoke—where is the detailed plan? We need a roadmap, not just a call to action. Still, kudos to the new reps taking oath seriously.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.