CM Sukhu Defends MGNREGA, Pledges Fight for Poor and Workers
At the Indora festival, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a sharp attack on the Central Government, accusing it of trying to dismantle MGNREGA by changing its name. He called the scheme a lifeline for villages, the poor, and workers, warning that weakening it would directly rob people of their livelihoods.
Sukhu reminded the audience how during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when industries and jobs collapsed, MGNREGA kept millions of rural households afloat. He stressed that the Congress government will never accept attempts to dilute or rename the scheme, which he described as the backbone of the rural economy.
He also highlighted how MGNREGA reduced migration from villages to cities by providing local employment, and vowed that the state government will continue to fight for the rights of the poor and workers against what he termed anti-people decisions of the Centre.
Zero Tolerance on Drugs
Turning to the drug menace, Sukhu expressed concern over the spread of deadly substances like chitta in border areas adjoining Punjab, including Indora. He declared a zero-tolerance policy, promising that no one involved in the drug trade will be spared, regardless of influence or political connections. Properties acquired through drug money, he said, will be seized.
Education Reforms Ahead
On education, the Chief Minister announced that government schools will gradually be affiliated with CBSE, alongside new teacher recruitments, to ensure quality and competitive learning for students.
Dharamshala as Tourism Capital
Sukhu also revealed plans to develop Kangra district into a major tourism hub, with Dharamshala positioned as the state’s tourism capital. The Dharamshala Carnival, he said, is a step toward boosting tourism, creating jobs for local youth, and putting Kangra firmly on the tourism map.
Praise for Local Leadership
He concluded by praising Indora’s MLA for effectively raising local issues in the Assembly and assured that the state government remains committed to the region’s development and addressing people’s concerns.
