SHIMLA -2^nd December, 2024

Handicrafts and Handloom Corporation needs to focus on design development to compete: Industries Minister

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan presided over the 193rd meeting of the Board of Directors of the HP State Handicrafts & Handloom Corporation here today.

During the meeting, the sales for the current financial year were reviewed. He directed the Corporation to focus on Design Development to compete with the modern marketing trends.

Sh. Harshwardhan appreciated the efforts of the Corporation for promoting the handicrafts and handloom in the larger interest of the weavers/artisans of the Pradesh.

He said that in pursuance of the decision of the State Government, the Dearness Allowance of the employees of the Corporation has been increased from 38 per cent to 42 per cent by the Corporation. Besides, the minimum wages of skilled and non-skilled workers of the Corporation has been enhanced w.e.f. 1st April, 2024 as per Government notification dated 23rd September, 2024.

Director Industries Dr. Yunus, Managing Director HP State Handloom and Handicraft Corporation Gandharv Rathore and General Manager HP State Handloom and Handicraft Corporation Anil Thakur were also present in the meeting.

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SHIMLA-2^nd December, 2024

Review meeting of Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam held

• PWD Minister directs to involve communities and local representatives

Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh held a review meeting with officials of Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited here today.

Representatives from Suez Company were also present in the meeting.

Vikramaditya Singh reviewed the progress of various water projects including Dwada, Shakrodi and Dummi. The Officials apprised the minister that civil work and pump inspections for the Shakrodi project were completed.

It was apprised in the meeting that 90 percent of the work on Dummi Stage-3, including the water tank, pump house and staff quarters was completed whereas the construction of the Dwada project’s water tank was in progress and the work of the Peterhoff tank was also nearing completion.

After watching the presentation on managing the drinking water supply in the city presented by Suez Company, Vikramaditya Singh stressed the importance of involving local councilors, residents and the concerned MLA's in planning and implementation of the schemes. He directed the company staff to visit all the wards with councilors to address public concerns and develop detailed work plans.

The Minister also directed the Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited to submit monthly progress reports and survey updates on all drinking water schemes in the city.

MLA Harish Janartha, Managing Director Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Limited, Virender Thakur, General Manager Rajesh Kashyap and other senior officers were present in the meeting.