Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Announces Diwali Benefits for HRTC Employees
In Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) employees. This increment aligns with the benefits given to state government employees and is part of a Diwali gift package. The Chief Minister assured that salaries and pensions would be disbursed by October 28, recognizing the importance of timely payments during festivals.
The announcement coincides with HRTC’s Golden Jubilee celebration, marking 50 years since its inception in 1974. During the event, the Chief Minister also promised to clear Rs 9 crore in pending medical bills within two months and pay Rs 50 crore of the Rs 97 crore owed for overtime work by March 31, 2025. Sukhu shared his personal connection to HRTC, recalling his father’s time as a driver there.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, also the Transport Minister, highlighted HRTC’s dedication to serving Himachal Pradesh, connecting even the remotest villages. Despite financial challenges, the government ensures timely payment of salaries and pensions. The corporation spends Rs 45 crores monthly on salaries, Rs 25 crores on pensions, and Rs 45 crores on diesel.
The government is committed to supporting HRTC, aiming to modernize operations and enhance public transport efficiency. A Green Hydrogen Project will be initiated next month to reduce the transport sector’s carbon footprint.
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Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and scenic landscapes. It is a popular tourist destination, especially for those who love nature and adventure.
CM -: CM stands for Chief Minister, who is the head of the government in an Indian state. The Chief Minister is responsible for making important decisions and managing the state’s affairs.
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu -: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. He is a political leader who makes decisions for the welfare of the people in the state.
Diwali -: Diwali is a major Hindu festival celebrated in India, known as the Festival of Lights. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and people celebrate it by lighting lamps, bursting crackers, and sharing sweets.
HRTC -: HRTC stands for Himachal Road Transport Corporation, which is a government-run bus service in Himachal Pradesh. It provides transportation services to people across the state, especially in hilly areas.
Dearness Allowance -: Dearness Allowance is a part of a salary given to employees to help them cope with inflation. It is an extra amount added to their salary to make sure they can afford the rising cost of living.
Golden Jubilee -: Golden Jubilee refers to the 50th anniversary of an event or organization. In this context, it means that HRTC has been providing services for 50 years.
Carbon footprint -: Carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, that are released into the atmosphere because of human activities. Reducing the carbon footprint means using cleaner and more efficient ways to do things to help protect the environment.
