Come Jan 1, Himachal to end power subsidy for top-tier govt employees

Shimla: Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday said from Jan 1, electricity subsidies would no longer be provided to grade-1 and grade-2 state govt officers and employees.The state govt will provide an additional corpus fund of Rs 100 crore to financially strengthen the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited, Sukhu added. The CM was chairing a review meeting of the HPSEBL.During the meeting, discussions were also held on incorporating modern techniques to improve the functioning of the board. Sukhu urged the board officials to propose innovative ideas to ensure financial stability and improve the efficiency of the electricity board.The state govt had recently revised electricity tariffs for industrial and commercial consumers, generating approximately Rs 500 crore as additional revenue annually. The state govt is also undertaking adequate measures on financial prudence, said Sukhu.The CM further said the state govt was planning to recruit linesmen and T-mates to ensure adequate field staff, which would aid in providing uninterrupted power supply and quality services to the consumers.He also directed the officers to prepare a rationalisation plan for the deployment of staff across the board.Principal advisor (media) Naresh Chauhan; principal advisor to chief minister Ram Subhag Singh; principal secretary, finance, Devesh Kumar; and secretary to chief minister Rakesh Kanwar were also present in the meeting.

State govt employees to go on strike on Jan 22

Government teachers and employees in Kerala, under the Joint Council (CPI), plan to strike on January 22, 2024. They are demanding pay revision, dearness allowance, and an end to the freeze on leave surrender. The council also wants the government to take over the Medisep scheme and address alleged financial discrimination by the central government.

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu sparks controversy over 'wild chicken' served at dinner

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu is embroiled in controversy after protected "wild chicken" was served at a dinner he attended. A video circulated online, sparking outrage from animal rights activists and the BJP, who demand an apology and action. While Sukhu didn't eat the dish, it was served to other officials.

Min: Govt already providing cheaper power through subsidy

Bihar's Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav countered Tejashwi Yadav's free electricity pledge, emphasizing the state's existing subsidy program. Yadav highlighted subsidized rates benefiting BPL households, rural and urban consumers, and farmers. He noted increased power availability, longer supply hours, and a substantial rise in per capita consumption, showcasing Bihar's progress under the current government.

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