HIM MSME FEST 2026 from 3rd–5th January 2026 at Shimla

From Himachal on Saturday 20th Dec 20, 2025 at 8:50 PM Regarding HIM MSME FEST 2026

Another objective to provide vibrant platform for those seeking new collaborations

Shimla: 20th December 2025: (Media Link Team//Himachal Screen Desk)::

The Department of Industries is going to organize HIM MSME FEST 2026 from 3rd – 5th January 2026 at Shimla with an objective of providing platform to MSMEs for having access to e-commerce companies on one hand and showcasing of locally manufactured traditional products on the other. 

The fest also aims to provide a vibrant platform for aspiring/existing entrepreneurs and Start-Ups from Himachal Pradesh to exhibit their products, interact with buyers, investors, and MSME ecosystem partners, and explore new collaborations for business growth.

This is a priority initiative of the Hon’ble Chief Minister to promote inclusive industrial development in the State through focused efforts on investment facilitation, women entrepreneurship and enterprise promotion. The fest will be graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh as the Chief Guest, along with the Hon’ble Industries Minister, senior representatives from Government of India (MoMSME, NITI Aayog, DPIIT) and other dignitaries from both the State and Central Governments.

The FEST on 03rd January 2026 will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister in the presence of Hon’ble Industries Minister and other dignitaries. The ceremony will also feature the Startup Awards & Recognition Ceremony, followed by a cultural evening providing a platform to artists from across the State to showcase Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the major attractions of the first day will be the showcase of handmade shawls representing the traditional crafts and weaving heritage of different districts. Additionally, factory outlets and exhibition stalls featuring unique products from across Himachal Pradesh will be set up for the entire duration of the three-day fest.

The Hon’ble Industries Minister apprised that in order to accelerate the tempo of Industrialization in the State, the Department has identified some focused potential sectors such as Green Mobility, Defense, Pharma, Dairy, Food Processing, AI & Electronic Chip, Data Center and other sunrise sectors. Captains of leading industrial sectors are being invited for discussion and deliberations vis-a -vis tracking fresh industrial investment in Himachal. Besides, Hon’ble Minister also shared that discussion with the captains of the industries will also be held in the context of upcoming new industrial policy. 

The Director of Industries also informed that thematic knowledge exchange sessions and networking deliberations will be organized around key themes such as startup promotion, women entrepreneurship, buyer-seller meet focusing on One District One Product (ODOP) initiative and forging linkages with e-commerce platforms such as Walmart, Amazon, GI Tagged and ONDC etc. A delegation from the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry is also expected to participate in CEO interaction.  

A meeting was held under the Chairmanship of Sh. R.D. Nazeem (IAS) Addl. Chief Secretary (Industries) and Dr. Yunus (IAS), Director Industries, Sh. Tilak Raj Sharma, Addl. Director Industries, Ms. Deepika Khatri, Joint Director, Sh. Anil Thakur, Joint Director were also present in the meeting to work out the clear cut roadmap. Regular meetings and on ground efforts are being undertaken for successful conduct of the fest. 

The said event is being organized in consultation with Ernst and Young, CII and BRICS Chamber of Commerce. 

About 6000 Mani Mahesh pilgrims were evacuated safely

Evacuation work completed through buses and taxis

Shimla: 30 August 2025: (Media link Ravinder/ /Devbhoomi Screen)::

Water outbreak has wreaked havoc on Himachal Pradesh. Despite this bitter reality of sadness, it is also a big fact that the government, society and common people have faced all these difficulties with great courage in this difficult time. Due to this courage, success has also been achieved in saving many people.

About 6000 Mani Mahesh pilgrims have been evacuated safely through buses and taxis. This success has brought a wave of relief to many worried homes. Along with this, many efforts are being made in other difficult places as well. Their result will also be very good. God will definitely shower his blessings on the people of Devbhoomi.

Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, while chairing a review meeting with senior officials here today, informed that about 6 thousand passengers stranded in Chamba have been safely evacuated and sent to Nurpur and Pathankot through private and HRTC buses and taxis.

He said that on Friday, passengers from Kalsui area of ​​Chamba were sent to Pathankot through corporation buses. On Saturday, 20 buses were run, out of which 17 were sent to Pathankot and the remaining buses to Kangra and Dehra. 60 additional buses have been deployed in Chamba, which are being used as per requirement.

The Chief Secretary said that about 5000 passengers are left in Bharmour and 500 in Chamba Chaugan, who are residents of Jammu and Kashmir and surrounding areas. These passengers will also be sent to their destinations soon after the restoration of Langera road. He said that the work of restoring the Langera road is going on at war footing.

He said that the Chamba-Bharmour road has been restored till Kalsuni and Rajera. Apart from this, Jot road has also been restored for traffic till the gate.

The Chief Secretary informed that Pagal Nala in Lahaul-Spiti has also been restored for vehicular movement, after which heavy vehicles have started moving from here towards Kaza. After the opening of Pagal Nala, four oil tankers have been sent to Keylong from Atal Tunnel. He said that the Aleo road through Rohtang Pass has been opened for small vehicles.

Director and Special Secretary Disaster Management D.C. Rana informed that the work of restoring the Kullu-Manali road for traffic is also being done on a war footing. The road from the left bank has been opened for Manali. The road for Banjar and communication services in the area have been restored.

He said that the movement of trucks from Lahaul will be started from Sunday.

'Greening of MSMEs' Growing Fast

 Received From AT//PR on 26th July 2025 at 1:05PM Regarding Industrial Growth Workshop

Stakeholder consultation held in special workshop

Industry representatives from Baddi and Nalagarh participated in the workshop

*Energy efficiency to more than 2500 enterprises

*Special training plan on waste management and green financing

*A new industrial boom begins from Shimla

Shimla: 25th July 2025: (Kartika Kalyani Singh/ /Himachal Screen Desk)::

It is not easy to give a fast pace to the industry on the path of development while keeping the environment safe. There are many challenges in this effort. A special workshop was organized to deal with and discuss these challenges, which was also completely successful.

In a significant move to promote environmentally sustainable industrial development and enhance resource efficiency among MSME units, a Stakeholder Consultation Workshop was organized under the ‘Greening of MSMEs’ initiative in Solan district. The workshop witnessed active participation from entrepreneurs and industry representatives from the industrial hubs of Baddi and Nalagarh.

Jointly conducted by Frost & Sullivan and Tinge Consultancy, the workshop provided participants with in-depth knowledge on key subjects such as energy conservation, waste management, green financing, water conservation and recycling, and resource efficiency. Experts emphasized the concept of Resource Efficient Cleaner Production (RECP), outlining how MSMEs can optimize production using fewer resources while upholding environmental responsibilities.

The ‘Greening of MSMEs’ initiative is being implemented under the Government of India’s RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) program, with support from the World Bank. The primary objective is to empower the MSME sector both technically and financially, making it more competitive and environmentally responsible. Under this initiative, approximately 1,900 MSMEs in the state will be integrated into the greening process.

The workshop also introduced participants to modern industrial concepts such as Net Zero, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, Circular Economy, and Decarbonization. Additionally, information was provided on available green financing schemes, technical solution providers, and real-time monitoring systems through digital portals.

It was highlighted that in the near future, more than 2,500 enterprises in Himachal Pradesh will receive specialized training on energy efficiency, waste management, and green financing. This initiative aligns with the Himachal Pradesh Government’s vision of transforming the state into a ‘Green Energy State’ by 2026, and contributes meaningfully toward India’s national goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.

The workshop not only proved informative but also empowering, providing participating entrepreneurs with actionable insights and guidance on practical solutions and access to financial resources for their units.

Mr. Tilak Raj Sharma, Additional Director, Department of Industries, emphasized that ‘Greening of MSMEs’ is not merely an environmental initiative but a symbol of positive transformation in industrial mindset. He added that this initiative will not only contribute to environmental preservation but also make MSME units more self-reliant, competitive, and profitable.

CM Sukhu releases two books written by Ajay Parashar

Thursday:19th September 2024 at 03:45 PM    DIPR HP Shimla

One book is history of the Peeth and other is of literature 

Shimla: 19 September 2024: (Media Link//Kartika Kalyani Singh//Himachal Screen Desk)::

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu today released two books 'Jalandhar Peeth Ka Rahasya' and 'Mushtarka Khata' written by Ajay Parashar, Director, Information and Public Relations, North East Council.

"Jalandhar Peeth Ka Rahasya" Very amazing information is available on the secrets of this Peeth. The need for such literature on this Peeth was also being felt very much. A lot of religious literature has been written but the lack of research-based religious literature is still felt. In this way, this book contributes a lot in this regard.

While appreciating the efforts of the author in compiling these books, the Chief Minister said that 'Jalandhar Peeth Ka Rahasya' will enlighten the readers about the historical and religious importance of various Peeths of Himachal Pradesh.

Ajay Parashar Sahib's second book 'Mushtarka Khata' contributes a lot. Actually this book is a collection of 16 short stories depicting various dimensions of everyday life, which will prove important in increasing the understanding of local culture and history. These stories introduce us to life through the pen, depicting various colors and dimensions of life.

Investigative writer Ajay Parashar thanked the Chief Minister for the release and encouragement. The areas also welcomed these books. .0.

आप यही खबर हिंदी में भी पढ़ सकते हैं बस यहां क्लिक करके 

HP: Governor confers state awards to 27 teachers

One teacher honored with national award 

Shimla: 5 September 2024: (Kartika Singh//Himachal Screen Desk)::

This time also special events were organized across the country on Teachers' Day. In Himachal Pradesh also, programs of the same purpose were held at different places. The state level event was held in Shimla in which the honor of teachers was a special attraction. On this occasion, the important role of teachers, parents and students in nation building was also highlighted in detail.

It was a matter of pleasure that Himachal selected amongst the six states under 'PM SHRI' Yojna, 180 schools to be covered. It was declared by the Guv. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla conferred State Awards upon 27 teachers and honoured one other with National Award for the year 2023 in a State-level function held at Raj Bhavan Shimla today.

On the occasion of the Teachers' Day it was a special event. On the occasion, Lady Governor Janaki Shukla also presented saplings to all the award winners. The Governor paid rich tributes to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India, whose birth anniversary is celebrated as Teachers' Day throughout the country. He termed Dr. Radhakrishnan as a veracious personality, nobel laureate, academician and an able administrator.

While congratulating the award-winning teachers, the Governor said that the role of teachers, parents and students was important in the field of education. "Teachers should be sensitive towards their role of imparting education and values as only then, the process of teaching and learning could be effective," he said.

The Governor said that the importance of teachers as nation-builders has also been clearly expressed in the National Education Policy 2020. Many provisions have been made in this policy about the students and teachers relationship and the role of teachers in shaping the future of the youth, he said and added that Himachal has always performed excellently in the field of education and can perform much better by implementing the National Education Policy in letter and spirit.

Shri Shukla said that the Government of India has also approved a new centrally sponsored scheme Prime Minister's Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI). Under this scheme, provision has been made to strengthen the existing schools under NEP-2020 so as they emerge as exemplary institutions over the span of time and be a role model to be followed by other schools. It will nurture students in a way that they become engaged, productive, and contributing citizens for building an equitable, inclusive, and plural society as envisaged by the National Education Policy 2020. 

He said that 180 schools of Himachal would be developed under this scheme. The Government of India has selected Himachal amongst the six states under the Star Project in which Himachal has been selected as 'Light House' along with three states.

He expressed contentment that under 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat', students and teachers of the State were being taken on educational tours to different states and for the first time in the State, International tours have also been organised for building educational ability of teachers. 

He said that only teachers play a pivotal role to shape and enable the future generation to contribute towards nation building.

Expressing concern, he said that today many youth were in the clasp of drugs, which was a matter of concern for the future of the country. There was a need to start a strong campaign against drugs, he said, adding that students of schools, colleges and other educational institutions should be made aware about the ill-effects of drugs and the teachers could play an important role awaring the students about the ill-effects of drugs and make an important contribution to the entire society. 

He said that soon a strong anti-drug awareness campaign would be launched at the district level with the cooperation of the district administration along with the Panchayat representatives in which the Education department would also be associated.

The Governor also released a souvenir on the occasion. Rohit Thakur, Education Minister welcomed the Governor and Lady Governor and said that the State Government was committed to the development of the education sector. He said that the life of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan has been inspirational as he dedicated his life towards prioritising and strengthening the education sector.

He said that for the first time a transparent policy has been adopted for the Teacher's Award in which spot evaluations as well as interviews were done so that this award could be given to the deserving person. He also recalled the contribution of the first Chief Minister of the State, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar in strengthening the education sector. He also showed concern about the low enrolment of children in government schools.

Ashish Butail, Chief Parliamentary Secretary said the Chief Minister has taken several concrete steps to raise the standard of education in the state. Students were being taken on a country tour and teachers have been sent on a foreign tour for exposure visits, he added. Apart from this, English medium schools were being opened in every assembly constituency, he remarked.

Earlier, the Education Minister felicitated the Governor and the Chief Parliamentary Secretary felicitated the Lady Governor.

Rakesh Kanwar, Education Secretary welcomed the Governor and Ashish Kohli, Director, Elementary Education proposed vote of thanks.

A cultural programme was also performed by the students of GSSS Portmore and RKMV.

Surender Chauhan, Mayor, Municipal Corporation Shimla, Uma Kaushal, Deputy Mayor, C.P. Verma, Secretary to Governor, Amarjeet Sharma, Director, Higher Education, Rajesh Sharma, State Project Director, Samagr Shiksha Abhiyan and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.

Overall, it was a memorable event. Its musical notes will keep on giving for a long time. This time's Rangrang was truly memorable.

Tenders invited for 11 tourism projects

Shimla No. 550/2024-PUB 14th August 2024

These will cost Rs. 696.50 crore

Shimla: 14th August 2024: (K K Singh//Himachal Screen Desk)::

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that 11 projects with an outlay of Rs. 696.47 crore were underway to give a fillip to the tourism sector in the State. While presiding over a meeting of Tourism Department here last evening, he said that tenders have been invited for all these eleven projects, aiming to enhance the influx of tourists in the State.   "Tourism is a key sector for our economy supporting livelihood of thousands of families directly or indirectly", he said adding that it was hence essential to enhance the overall tourism experiences in the State and create new infrastructure.

It was briefed in the meeting that the projects include Convention Centre at Dharamshala, which was being constructed with an outlay of Rs. 161.91 crore, beautification of Palampur and Nagrota Bagwan will be done at cost Rs. 95.50 crore, wellness centre to be constructed at Nadaun with an outlay of Rs. 91.42 crore, tourist facilities at Baba Balaknath Deothsidh in Hamirpur district at a cost of Rs. 65.32 crore, rafting complex at Nadaun to developed with an outlay of Rs. 64 crore, construction of wellness centre at Banuti in district Shimla at Rs. 58.37 crore, wellness centre at Manali with an approximate budget of Rs. 45.25 crore, Ice Skating Rink cum Roller Skating Rink at Dharamshala with a cost of Rs. 39.51 crore, development of Ice Skating Rink cum Roller Skating Rink at Shimla with a cost of Rs. 34.85 crore, Wellness Centre at Kullu with an outlay Rs. 27.76 crore and restoration of Naggar Castle in  Kullu district to be done at a cost of Rs. 11.57 crore. The Chief Minister directed the officers to expedite the projects and complete within stipulated time period.

State Government has declared Kangra district as a Tourism Capital of the State and necessary tourism infrastructure was being created to facilitate the visitors. The Pong Dam would be transformed into an internationally renowned 'birders paradise' and would become a national centre for excellence in water sports. The Kangra airport was being expanded which will go a long way in attracting high end tourists to this region, stated Sh. Sukhu The Chief Minister informed that the number of tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh have significantly increased touching 1.13 crore uptill July, 2024.

Vice Chairman H.P. Tourism Development Board R.S. Bali, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sunder Singh Thakur, Principal Secretary Devesh Kumar, Secretary to Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Director Tourism Mansi Sahay,Managing Director HPTDC Rajiv Kumar and other senior officers attended the meeting.

Central Tibetan Administration meets CM Thakur Sukhu

 11th May 11, 2023 at 7:53 PM

Tibetan President explains the problems of the Tibetan community

Shimla: 11 May 2023: (Kartika Singh//Himachal Screen Desk)::

In Himachal There are many tourist places, many more places of other interest and many other important places too. Along with these, there are huge sources of knowledge in Himachal Pradesh. 

While discussing all these important and special things, the mention of the Tibetan community cannot be forgotten. If we ever talk to the people who have visited Himachal Pradesh for the first time, then it is known that the memories of the various places of interest of Himachal Pradesh and the style of the people living in Himachal Pradesh are still fresh in their hearts and minds. The memories of the Tibetan people are completely imprinted on the mind of the tourists and other peoples .

Significantly, it is also special to meet the tourists with polite nature in the way of business of Tibetan people, their method of worship. His hospitality is unforgettable. Tibetan people have been living there for a long time. During this, one or the other problem also comes in front of them. To solve these problems, Tibetans often meet the local administration as well. In this connection.

Chairman of the Central Tibetan Administration, Penpa Tsering met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu here today and discussed various issues related to the Tibetan community living in Himachal Pradesh. Everyone has the hope that the Chief Minister will also take appropriate steps to solve their problems.

Himachal CM again acts as Good Samaritan

Monday 8th May 2023 at 2:48  PM

Extended financial assistance from self to rescue stranded children 

Shimla: 8th May, 2023: (Kartika Singh Shailly//Himachal Screen)::

A spokesperson of the State Government informed here today that Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has given directions to the officers of the State Government to ensure safety and security of five Himachali students stuck in Manipur. 

The Chief Minister immediately responded to the text message of one of the students stuck in Manipur and intervened in the matter. He gave a financial assistance of Rs. 60,000 from his own pocket to handle the crisis immediately and meeting the travelling expenses of the students to return home safely. He passed on instructions to the officers of state government for taking necessary action for bringing back the students to their homes in Himachal Pradesh, told the spokesperson.

The State Government has made efforts for bringing five students back home including Simran, Sujal Kaundal and Ashwani Kumar from Mandi and Nawang Chhering from Kullu and Keshav Singh from Hamirpur. Three students were pursuing their studies in NIT Manipur at Imphal while other two were studying in Khumban Lampak Sports Complex, National Sports University in Imphal. He said that the students were flown from Imphal to Kolkata and they will reach New Delhi by evening today. State government is committed to the welfare and safety of every citizen of the state, added the spokesperson. 

The state government has issued telephone numbers for evacuation of other Himachalis from Manipur. The interested persons can contact on telephone numbers 89883-41921, 0177-2929688, 0177-2629439, he added. 

-0-

CM releases a book on astrology

 31st December 2022 at 3:43 PM

Book 'Antadhavi' written by senior journalist Sanjay Thakur

Shimla: 31 December 2022: (Devbhoomi Screen//Himachal Screen Desk)::

Editing and Input By Kartika Singh

Day by day astrology is proving its strength. Astrology courses have been made and its education has also become a very good job. Fully educated astrologers are still active on a large scale. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has also released a book on astrology.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today released a book ‘Antdhavi’ authored by senior journalist Sanjay Thakur. 

Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the author and said that the book will go a long way to make the readers aware about various aspects of astrology.

Author of the book Sanjay Thakur said that Antdhavi is not a general book of astrology, but propounds the astrological scientific basis and scientific approach of astrology. 

Click here for Hindi Version also in Devbhoomi Screen

यही खबर हिंदी में भी है-देवभूमि स्क्रीन में-यहां क्लिक करें 

HP Govt.s decision to give Rs 500 festive grant

Thursday 29th December 2022 at 7:30 PM

So that the festivals do not fade away due to financial constraints

Symbolic Photo

Shimla: 29th December 2022: (Kartika Singh//Himachal Screen Desk)::

File Photo

Happiness among those living in child protection units, old age homes, Nari Seva Sadan, Shakti Sadan and special homes

The flight of poetry captures those moments which are not even in the fortune of everyone to see. Poetry reaches even those helpless people who have no one to listen to their sighs. Nowadays the days of festivals are going on. Remembering the lines of an unknown poet:

वो रोज रोज नहीं जलता साहब, 

मंदिर का दिया थोड़े ही है गरीब का चूल्हा है!

Wo Roz Roz Nahin Jalta Sahib, 

Mandir Ka Diya Thode hai, Greeb Ka Chulha Hai!

It doesn't burn everyday sir, the lamp of the temple is not enough, it is the poor's stove!

But in such a situation what to do when the festivals come? How to get rid of helplessness? What should one do if one's pocket is empty during the festival season? Realizing this pain, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has taken the essence of these people. The state government has reached out to these people so that their festivals do not fade away. 

Government provides Rs. 500 festive grant to residents of Model Children Home, Nari Seva Sadan and Institute for Children with Special Abilities. Upliftment of poor and downtrodden is the top most priority of present State Government and immediately after becoming the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is making all possible efforts to realize all the promises that the government has made during the election campaign. After taking the oath as the Chief Minister the very day he visited Balika Ashram and directed officials to provide all the necessary facilities to the students of this Ashram.  After assuming the reins of state the present State Government with a target to serve the humanity and for the betterment of people has taken many ambitious steps which would ensure the development of weaker section of society and would also strengthen their economic condition.      

Secretary Social Justice and Empowerment M. Sudha Devi today here said that in compliance to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's announcement to provide Festive grant to all Child Care Institutions, Old Age Homes, Nari Seva Sadan, Shakti Sadan, Special Homes etc. during his visit to Model Children Homes, Nari Seva Sadan and Institute for Children with Special Abilities at Dhalli on Wednesday the Government has issued notification to provide Rs. 500 to each resident of these institutions during festivals as festive grant.

She said that apart from the festive grant the government would also make special arrangements for the residents of these institutions during these festivals.  She said that these Festivals would includes Lohri and Makar Sakranti (Maghi) and Holi. 

M. Sudha Devi further said that Social Justice and Empowerment department would also perform the burning of Lohri fire, distribution of peanuts, rewari, gacchak, til ke ladoo, chikki (til), the  premises would be decorated and khichari would be made during the Lohri festival. She said that during Holi skin friendly organic colours, sweets gujjia would be distributed and special meals/festivals would be provided to all the residents of Child Care Institutions, Old Age Homes, Nari Seva Sadan, Sakti Sadan and Special Homes etc..  -0-

Click here for Hindi Version also in Devbhoomi Screen      

यही खबर हिंदी में भी है-देवभूमि स्क्रीन में-यहां क्लिक करें 

500 year old handicrafts fair in Rampur city of Himachal

12-11-2013 पर प्रकाशित

Annual handicrafts fair in Himachal Pradesh to promoting tourism and local artisans.

{Courtesy:INBMINISTRY//YouTube}

ये भारत देश है मेरा !

स्वतंत्रता दिवस के इस पावन त्यौहार पर हमें कुछ लिंक मिले हैं। इन लिंकस  में दो ऐसी तस्वीरें हैं जो इंसान की बराबरी पर सवाल खड़ा करती हैं। कुछ इसे लोगों के बारे में बताती हैं जिहें अभी पूजा पाठ की स्वतन्त्रता नहीं मिली। क्या सचमुच छूयाछात अभी जारी है ?

                                                                                                                                               दोनों तस्वीरें साभार 

इन् तस्वीरों की पोस्टिंग 4 दिसम्बर 2011 को हुई थी। क्या अब वहां कुछ बदला है।.....ये तुरंत स्पष्ट नहीं हो सका। स्वतन्त्रता दिवस के इस एतिहासिक दिवस पर आओ आज संकल्प लें की इंसान को बराबरी का हक दिलाने के लिए इस वर्ष कुछ और ठोस कदम उठाए जायेंगे।--रेक्टर कथूरिय!

52 die in Chamba bus mishap

42-seater vehicle had 100 on board when it fell into a gorge
Rakesh Lohumi
Tribune News Service
Shimla, August 11

At least 52 persons were killed and 40 injured when an overcrowded private bus rolled down into a gorge near Rajera village, around 10 km from Chamba today.

There were around 100 passengers in the 42-seater vehicle that was on its way from Dularha to Chamba. Many of them were perched on the rooftop.

While 39 persons died on the spot, 13 succumbed to their injuries in a hospital at Chamba. While 34 injured passengers have been hospitalised at Chamba, six seriously injured have been referred to the Tanda Medical College in Kangra.

Most of the passengers belonged to Kuranh, Dularha, Gagla and Rajera villages. They were all heading for the Minjar fair which began at Chamba yesterday. The bus was overloaded as the state road transport corporation had withdrawn its morning bus service due to weekend holidays. The driver of the bus was among those killed. The conductor, however, had a miraculous escape.

One of the few survivors, Vijay Kumar, said the mishap occurred after a front wheel of the bus came off. He was standing at the rear door and managed to jump out of the bus before it fell into the gorge. An eyewitness, however, claimed that the accident happened after the rear tyre of the vehicle burst.

SP Chamba, Kuldeep Sharma, said an FIR has been registered on the basis of Vijay Kumar’s statement. He said there were reports that the bus was quite old and the police was trying to ascertain if it was fit for plying.

The locals blamed the lack of adequate bus services for overcrowding, which leads to mishaps in most cases.

They said there was no reason for the state road transport corporation to withdraw services during the Minjar fair, when more buses were needed to cope with the rush of commuters. According to sourses, the corporation, which has been incurring loss of around Rs 5 per bus per km, usually scales down its operations on holidays to curtail losses.

Speaker Tulsi Ram, who hails from Chamba district, and local MLA BK Chauhan supervised the relief and rescue operations along with Deputy Commissioner Sunil Chaudhary and SP Sharma.
(Courtesy The Tribune)

Happy Janmashtami

Happy JanmaAshtami 
To all and every where....!

Meditate on Lord Krishna and feel the happiness and streangth immediately