Minister inaugurates PHC at Halah
Industries, Parliamentary Affairs and Labour & Employment Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan inaugurated the newly constructed Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Halah in the Shillai Assembly constituency today. Following the inauguration, the minister participated as the chief guest in the closing ceremony of the 26th District-level Shaheed Kalyan Singh Memorial Sports and Cultural Meet.
Earlier in the day, Chauhan paid floral tributes at the Shaheed Kalyan Singh Memorial in Halah, honouring the martyr’s contribution to the nation.
Addressing a public gathering during the event, Chauhan congratulated the residents of the region on the inauguration of the PHC and reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure in remote areas. He said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the government is prioritising the development of health facilities and staffing in far-flung areas to reduce the need for rural populations to travel long distances for treatment.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to bolster healthcare access, Chauhan informed that a 100-bed Civil Hospital building, constructed at a cost of Rs 19 crore in Shillai, will soon be dedicated to the public. Once operational, the hospital will offer improved patient care, including specialist doctors and the filling of vacant nursing positions.
In addition to healthcare initiatives, the minister mentioned the ongoing construction of the Naya-Pinjor road at an estimated cost of Rs 19 crore. He said that approximately Rs 250 crore worth of developmental projects in road connectivity, education, healthcare, and drinking water supply are currently underway in the Shillai constituency.
“My aim is to transform Shillai into a model constituency, and consistent efforts are being made in that direction,” Chauhan added. Emphasising the importance of sports, Chauhan said athletics play a vital role in the holistic development of individuals. “Sports not only foster physical and mental well-being but also help in building strong character among youth. They act as a shield against social evils and addictions,” he said.
He proudly noted that four girls from the region had recently won gold medals at international-level sporting events. The state government, he said, is honouring sportspersons with monetary rewards and offering them appointments in government jobs through reservation policies.
Appealing to the youth to channel their energy towards constructive pursuits, Chauhan expressed concern over rising drug addiction among young people. He urged them to maintain a disciplined and busy daily routine to achieve new milestones in life. Earlier, the minister held a public grievance redressal meeting at the PWD Rest House in Ronhat, where he listened to the concerns of local residents.
Chauhan also announced several developmental grants for educational institutions and infrastructure during the event. These include Rs 10 lakh each for additional rooms in Halah and Loja schools, Rs 5 lakh for the playground at Naya-Pinjor school, and Rs 10 lakh for the sports ground where the memorial sports and cultural meet was held.
Himachal Tribune