Shimla, Dec 12 (IANS) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday announced that the state government will provide up to 40 per cent subsidy to tribal youth for purchasing buses and traveller vehicles, along with a four-month exemption from road tax, to promote employment in remote regions.
Chairing the 50th meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Tribal Advisory Council, the Chief Minister said the government is prioritising livelihood creation in tribal districts by expanding opportunities in transport and renewable energy. He added that interest subsidies would also be offered for setting up private solar power projects ranging from 250 kW to 1 MW.
CM Sukhu directed officials to complete tender processes for development works in snow-bound areas so construction can begin by March–April. He said long-pending power issues in Pangi and Spiti would be resolved soon with new 1.2 MW and 2 MW solar plants becoming operational.
The Chief Minister reiterated efforts to open the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route via Shipki-La and revive trade with Tibet. He highlighted that tribal regions have made notable progress, recording higher per capita income and stronger social indicators compared to other districts.
Sukhu further announced new connectivity projects, including a road at the landslide-prone Nigulsari stretch on NH-5. He said pending Nautor cases are being prioritised, with over 1,039 land titles distributed so far under the Forest Rights Act. Tribal bhawans in Rampur and Nurpur are also nearing completion.
