Himachal Pradesh CM outlines vision for healthcare and economic self-reliance

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced a strategic vision to make the state self-reliant and among India’s wealthiest by 2032. A primary goal of this roadmap is to establish Himachal Pradesh as the nation’s leading state in healthcare by 2030.

Addressing a press conference in Shimla, Sukhu emphasized a policy of “Vyavastha Parivartan” (systemic change), focusing on education, the rural economy, social security, and economic reforms. He noted that these initiatives are being pursued despite significant fiscal challenges, including an inherited state debt of Rs 76,633 crore and liabilities of approximately Rs 10,000 crore as of March 2023.

To modernize healthcare, the government is prioritizing infrastructure, diagnostic technology, and medical staffing. Sukhu reported that staffing levels in medical colleges, such as the Indira Gandhi Medical College in Shimla, have improved from 35 percent to 60 percent of required personnel. The administration aims to reach 70 percent staffing by 2027 and intends to meet full staffing requirements by March 31, 2027.