Himachal Pradesh to Offer Online Access to Vital Certificates
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s Announcement
In a significant move, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that marriage, birth, and death certificates issued by Gram Panchayats will soon be available online. This initiative aims to provide essential services directly to citizens.
Rural Development and Employment
During a review meeting, CM Sukhu emphasized the importance of rural development for the state’s economy. Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), the state achieved 344.31 lakh labor days in 2023-24, surpassing the target of 275 lakh. For 2024-25, a target of 300 lakh labor days has been set, with 214.51 lakh already achieved.
Open Defecation Free Villages
The Chief Minister highlighted progress in making villages Open Defecation Free (ODF) plus models. By 2024-25, 17,582 villages are expected to achieve this status, with 9,203 already there and 2,347 verified.
Plastic Waste Management and Women’s Empowerment
Efforts in plastic waste management have led to 32 units being constructed, with 26 operational. Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), 43,161 self-help groups (SHGs) have been formed to empower women economically.
Innovative Initiatives and Future Plans
The State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) has opened 93 ‘Himera’ shops, generating Rs 1.4 crore in sales, and organized 80 weekly markets with Rs 1.2 crore in sales. Plans are underway to create an online platform for SHGs to market their products, enhancing their reach.
Support from State Officials
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh supported the government’s approach to empowering Gram Panchayats. The meeting included key officials like OSD to Chief Minister Gopal Sharma and Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena.
Doubts Revealed
Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and scenic landscapes. It is a popular tourist destination.
Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state, similar to a principal of a school but for the whole state. They make important decisions and announcements for the state.
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu -: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the current Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. He is responsible for leading the state government and making decisions for the welfare of the people.
Vital Certificates -: Vital certificates are important documents like birth, marriage, and death certificates. They are used to prove important life events.
MNREGA -: MNREGA stands for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. It is a program in India that provides jobs to rural people, helping them earn money and improve their lives.
Open Defecation Free -: Open Defecation Free means that people in a village or area do not defecate in the open. Instead, they use toilets, which helps keep the environment clean and healthy.
Self-help groups (SHG) -: Self-help groups are small groups of people, often women, who come together to support each other and work on projects to earn money. They help members become financially independent.
Online platform for marketing SHG products -: An online platform for marketing SHG products is a website or app where self-help groups can sell their products. This helps them reach more customers and earn more money.