The State of Himachal is becoming a vibrant economy of the country due to the steady efforts of the simple and hardworking people of the State and progressive policies of the Central Government. Today Himachal could become the most prosperous and fastest growing economy in the country. The economy of the State is expected to achieve a growth rate 6.3 percent in the current financial year .

The State Gross Domestic Product (GSDP) at factor cost at current prices, is estimated at `1, 24,236 crore in 2016-17 as against `1,13,355 crore in 2015-16 showing an increase of 9.6 percent during the year. At constant (2011-12) prices in 2016-17 is estimated at `1,02,954 crore as against `96,274 crore in 2015-16 registering a growth of 6.9 percent during the year as against the growth rate of 8.1 percent during the previous year. The increase in total State Domestic Product is mainly attributed to 18.1 percent in community & personal services sectors, 8.2 percent increase in transport and trade, 7.1 percent in manufacturing sector, 5.8 percent in finance & real estate, 5.4 percent in construction and 2.9 percent increase in electricity, gas & water supply. Whereas the Primary sector has shown a marginal decrease of 0.7 percent. Food-grains production, which was 16.34 lakh MT during 2015-16 has increased to 17.45 lakh MT during 2016-17 and is targeted at 16.45 lakh MT in 2017-18. The fruit production has decreased by 34.1 percent i.e from 9.29 lakh MT in 2015-16 to 6.12 lakh MT in 2016-17 and during 2017-18 (up to December, 2017) production was 5.00 lakh MT.
The per capita income at current prices witnessed an increase of 9.1 percent as it increased to `1,46,294 in 2016-17 from `1,34,089 in 2015-16.
As per the advanced estimates and on the basis of economic conditions up to December, 2017, the likely growth rate for 2017-18 will be around 6.3 percent.
The economic growth in the State is predominantly governed by agriculture and its allied activities showed not much fluctuations during nineties as the growth rate remained more or less stable. The economy has shown a shift from agriculture sector to industries and services as the percentage contribution of agriculture and allied sectors in total State Domestic Product has declined from 57.9 percent in 1950-51 to 55.5 percent in 1967-68, 26.5 percent in 1990-91 and to 9.7 percent in 2016-17. 1.13 The share of industries and services sectors respectively has increased from 1.1 & 5.9 percent in 1950-51 to 5.6 and 12.4 percent in 1967-68, 9.4 & 19.8 percent in 1990-91 and to 25.2 and 44.0 percent in 2016-17. However, the contribution of other remaining sectors showed a favourable shift i.e. from 35.1 percent in 1950-51 to 30.8 percent in 2016-17. 1.14 The declining share of agriculture sector do not, however, affect the importance of this sector in the state economy as the state economic growth still is being determined by the trend in agriculture and horticulture production. It is the major contributor to the total domestic product and has overall impact on other sectors via input linkages, employment and trade etc. Due to lack of irrigation facilities our agricultural production to a large extent still depends on timely rainfall and weather conditions. High priority has been accorded to this sector by the Government. 1.15 The State has made significant progress in the development of horticulture. The topographical variations and altitudinal differences coupled with fertile, deep and well drained soils favour the cultivation of temperate to sub-tropical fruits. The region is also suitable for cultivation of ancillary horticultural produce like flowers, mushroom, honey and hops. 1.16 During the year 2017-18 up to December, 2017, 5.00 lakh tonnes of fruits were produced in the state and it is envisaged to bring 3,000 hectares of additional area under fruit plants against which 2,552 hectares of area has already been brought under plantation and 6.69 lakh fruit plants of different species were distributed up to December, 2017.
Growing of off-season vegetables has also picked up in the state. During the year 2016-17, 16.54 lakh tonnes of vegetables were produced as against 16.09 lakh tonnes in 2015-16 recorded a growth rate of 2.8 percent. It is anticipated that the production of vegetables will be of the order of 15.40 lakh tonnes in 2017-18.
Himachal Pradesh continued to take ambitious steps to achieve its targets. In the area of climate change mitigation. The State action plans on climate change aim to create institutional capacities and implement sectoral activities to address climate change.
In view of the growing need of the State economy, the government has embarked upon a programme to provide uninterrupted continuous access to power supply in the state. Several steps have been taken for increasing power generation, strengthening of transmission and distribution. As a source of energy, hydro power is economically viable, non-polluting and is environmentally sustainable. In order to restructure the sector, the Power Policy of the State attempts to address all aspects like capacity addition energy security, access and availability, affordability, efficiency, environment and assured employment to people of Himachal.
Though the private sector participation in terms of investments in this sector has been encouraging but the smaller projects has been reserved for investors from Himachal Pradesh only (up to 2 MW) and preference will be given for projects up to 5 MW.
Tourism is a major engine of economic growth, an important source of revenue earnings and a generator of employment of diverse kinds. The State Govt. has also developed appropriate infrastructure for its development which includes provision of public utility services, roads, communication network, airports, transport facilities, water supply and civic amenities etc. As a result of high profile media thrust, a significant rise has been noticed in the domestic as well as foreign tourist inflow during last few years as below:-
Information Technology has a great scope for employment generation and revenue earnings. The HIMSWAN provides various G2G, G2C, G2B, e-Procurement and e-Samadhan etc. systems to bring efficiency and transparency in administration.
The annual plan for 2018-19 has been proposed at `6,300.00 crore which will be 10.5 percent higher than the plan size of current year 2017-18.
Containment of prices is on the priority list of Government. Himachal Pradesh Working Class Consumer Price Index number during 2017-18 increased by 5.3 percent in December, 2017 as against 4.0 percent at National level .
The priority of the government has always been for social welfare programmes. Concerted efforts have been made to improve the efficiency and quality of public services delivery. Some of the major achievements taken during the year are:-
1) All persons above the age of 70 years will be provided an old age pension irrespective of any income limit except those drawing any other pension.
2) All the departments have been directed to prepare targets to be achieved by their departments within the next 100 days for unique and innovative activities.
3) Additional Interim Relief of 8 percent of the basic pay has been provided to Government employees and pensioners with effect from 1.01.2016.
4) Under Smart City Mission Municipal Corporation Shimla has also been approved by Government of India.
5) Under “Public Service Guarantee Act 183 services in 25 departments has been implemented for efficient and timely solutions.
6) Social security Pension increased from `650 to `700 per month.
7) Under the skill development scheme an allowance of `116 crore has been distributed to 1,58,100 beneficiaries.
8) Out of the total farmers only 43 percent of the farmers have been issued Kisan Credit Cards by the banks.
9) Essential commodities are being supplied on subsidized rates to 18,38,036 ration card holders in the State so as to save them from the on- slaught of rising prices.
11) To save and promote agriculture activities from the menace of stray animals, wild animals and monkeys the government has enhanced subsidy to 80 percent under the Mukhyamantri Khet Sarkasan Yojna .
12) Under Restructured weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme(R-WBCIS) total of 2,86,378 number of farmers have been covered till Kharif and Rabi crop in 2016-17 season.
13) To bring diversification in horticulture industry an area of 156.19 hectares has been brought under flower cultivation upto December, 2017.
14) The R-WBCIS is being implemented in 36 blocks for apple, 41 blocks for Mango, 15 blocks for Citrus, 13 blocks for Plum and 5 blocks for Peach crops.
15) During the financial year 2016-17, 1,596 million units of electricity were generated.
16) 10,519 MW hydro power has been harnessed out of 27,436 MW identified potential which comes out to 38.34 percent.
17) Under Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee scheme 156.54 lakh man days have been generated by providing employment to 4,32,005 households.
18) Under Rajiv Awaas Yojana 846 houses are being constructed in the State during current financial year.
19) Swachh Bharat Mission is being implemented in all the 12 districts of the State in project mode and Himachal is considered as a leading State in the field of Sanitation.
20) Under Matri Shakti Bima Yojna all women in the age group of 10-75 years, living below poverty line are covered in case of their death or disability.
21) Under National Rural Livelihood Mission a total of 3,280 women SHGs are proposed for assistance.
22) Under Saansad Adrash Gram Yojana in two phases 10 Panchayats have been adopted by the MPs.
23) 1,416 kms roads/paths/streets and drain are being maintained by 54 Urban Local Bodies.
24) Under Lal Bahadur Shastri Kamgar Avam Shahari Ajivika Yojna, an amount of `1.50 crore has been provided for wage employment in newly created/merged areas of Municipal Councils/Corporations in the Pradesh.
25) 160 beneficiaries were provided skill training under National Urban Livelihood Mission and 33 persons have been provided placement.
26) Special attention is being given to quality education and to achieve the target of universalization of elementary education under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is vigoursly implemented
27) A programme named PRAYAS PLUS has been started in all upper primary schools for the popularisation and innovation in Science and Math.
28) Free education is being provided to girl students in the State upto University level.
29) The girl students studying in classes IX to XII belonging to SC, ST, OBC, minority communities and BPL families are being provided with hostel facilities in the educationally backward blocks.
30) Under Post Matric Scholarship to SC/ ST/ OBC a total of 45,351 students have been benefitted.
31) To improve the quality education two Govt. Senior Secondary Schools have been designated as Aadrash Model Schools in each constituency of each district.
32) To improve the educational status of the deprived section of the society, various types of scholarships/ stipend are being provided by the State/ Central government at various stages.
33) Medical University has to set up in District Mandi.
34) Under National Rural Health Mission 95 Health Institutions are identified to provide 24 hours emergency services.
35) 1.05 lakh smart cards have been issued under Mukhya Mantri State Health Care Scheme to the selected families .
36) Under “BETI HAI ANMOL Yojna” 16,908 girls have been benefitted.
37) Under Mukhya Mantri Kanyadaan Yojna 691 beneficiaries were covered upto December, 2017 .
38) During the current year 219 couples have been benefitted under inter caste marriage and grant has been increased from `25,000 to `50,000.
39) Under Mata Shabri Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojna `1,300 are being provided to eligible women for the purchase of gas connection and total of 5,100 women have been benefitted.
40) To provide financial assistance and support services to Rape victims an amount of `75,000 is being provided.
41) Under Pradhan Mantri Matru vandana Yojna(PMMVY), a cash incentive of `5,000/- is being provided directly in the account of Pregnant women and Lactating Mothers for first living child.
42) 16,521 childern have been benefitted under Mother Teressa Asahay Matri Sambal Yojana in the current financial year.
43) In order to ensure accountability, transparency, efficiency and to improve service delivery mechanism to general public web services has been started for all planning & special areas in the State.
44) Himachal is the only State which has provided horizontal connectivity to 2,260 government offices in the State.
45) 2,308 Lok Mitra Kendras are active and providing 28 G2C services.
46) 52 e-services under e-district launched in all 12 districts.
47) Under Aadhaar scheme UID has been generated for more than 75.73 lakh (105 %) residents against the projected population of 2017.
48) The Per Capita Income has touched the level of `1,46,294 in 2016-17 witnessing a growth of 9.1 percent over 201516 and is estimated at `1,58,462 in 2017-18.

Gross State Domestic Product (G.S.D.P.) or state income is the most important indicator for measuring the economic growth of a state. According to quick estimates, the total State Domestic Product for the year 2016-17 is `1,02,954 crore against `96,274 crore in 2015-16 thereby registering a growth of 6.9 percent at constant prices (Base Year:2011-12).
As per the quick estimates the value of Gross State Domestic Product of the Pradesh at current prices which was estimated at ` 1,13,355 crore for 2015-16 (Provisional estimates) increased to `1,24,235 crore during 2016-17, registering an increase of about 9.6% This increase is attributed to the agriculture & allied activities sector besides other sectors of the economy. The food grains production increased to 17.45 lakh MT in 2016-17 from 16.34 lakh MT in 2015-16. Whereas the production of apple decreased to 4.68 lakh MT in 2016-17 from 7.77 lakh MT in 2015-16.
The economy of Himachal Pradesh is predominantly dependent upon agriculture and in the absence of strong industrial base, any fluctuations in the agricultural or horticultural production cause some changes in economic growth also. During 2016-17 about 9.68 percent of state income has been contributed by agriculture sector alone.
The economy of the state also appears to be in resilient mode in terms of growth. As per advance estimates, the growth rate of GSDP during 2017-18 is expected 6.3 percent. 2.5 The table given below shows the growth of economy of Himachal Pradesh during the last three years:-

According to quick estimates( New Series base 2011-12), the per capita income at current prices increased to ` 1,46,294 in 2016-17 from `1,34,089 in 2015-16 showing an increase of 9.1%. At constant (2011-2012) prices the per capita income during 2016-17 is estimated at `1,19,755 against `1,12,895 in 2015-16 witnessing an increase of 6.1 percent.

The sectoral analysis reveals that during 2016-17, the percentage contribution of Primary sector to total G.S.D.P. of the State is 16.01 percent, Secondary Sector 39.96 percent, Transport, Communications and Trade 12.03 per cent, Finance & Real Estate 15.98 per cent and Community and Personal Services 16.02 percent,
The structural composition of the state economy witnessed significant changes during the decade. The share of agriculture including horticulture and animal husbandry in G.S.D.P. had declined from 26.86 percent in 1990-91 to 9.68 percent in 2016-17, yet the agriculture sector continues to occupy a significant place in the state economy and any fluctuation in the production of food grains/ Fruits affect the economy. The share of primary sectors which include agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining & quarrying has declined from 35.52 percent in 1990-91 to 16.01 per cent during 2016-17.
The Secondary sector, which occupies the important place in the state economy has witnessed a major improvement since 1990-91. Its contribution increased from 26.50 per cent in 1990-91 to 39.96 percent in 2016-17, reflecting healthy signs of industrialisation and modernisation in the state. The share of the electricity, gas and water supply sector which is a component of secondary sector has also increased from 4.70 percent during 1990-91 to 7.32 percent during 2016-17. Tertiary sector which is comprises sectors like trade, transport, communications, banking, real estate & business services, community and personal services has also witnessed change in its share. Its share in G.S.D.P. for the year 2016-17 is 44.03 per cent.

Following are the major constituents of the economy which attributed to 6.9 percent growth of state economy during 2016-17.
Primary Sector: Primary sector, which includes Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Mining and Quarrying, during 2016-17, witnessed negative growth rate of 0.7 per cent, due to decerease in apple production by nearly 40 percent as compared to 2015-16.
Secondary Sector:The secondary sector, which comprises Manufacturing, Construction and Electricity, Gas and Water Supply registered a growth of 6.0 percent during 2016-17. As compared to the last year‟s performance in these sectors the manufacturing sector has shown a decline in growth in 2016-17.
Tertiary Sector: Transport Storage, Communications and Trade: This group of sectors shows a growth of 8.2 percent during 2016-17. The transport by other means component of this sector has shown a growth of 4.4 percent.
Finance and Real Estate:This sector comprises Banking and Insurance, Real Estate, Ownership of dwellings and Business Services. It witnessed a growth of 5.8 percent in 2016-17.
Community and Personal Services :The growth in this sector during 2016-17 is 18.1 percent.
Contribution of Local Bodies in the State Gross Domestic Product (GSDP): The overall contribution of local bodies in the GSDP for the year 2016-17 is 0.30 percent. Table below shows the growth of local bodies in the State.

As per the advance estimates based on the economic performance of state upto December, 2017 the rate of economic growth of state during 2017-18 is likely to be 6.3 percent. The state has achieved growth rate of 6.9% in 2016-17 and 8.1% in 2015-16. The GSDP at current prices is likely to be about `1,35,914 crore.
According to the advance estimates the Per Capita Income at current prices during 2017-18 has been estimated at `1,58,462 against `1,46,294 in 2016-17 showing an increase of 8.3 percent.
A brief analysis of the economic growth in Himachal Pradesh, however, reveals that the state has always tried to keep pace with the allIndia growth rate as shown in Table-2.2 below:-

The state Government mobilizes financial resources through direct and indirect taxes, non-tax revenue, share of central taxes and grants-in-aid from Central Govt. to meet the expenditure on administration and developmental activities. According to the budget estimates for the year 2017-18 (BE) the total revenue receipts were estimated at `27,714 crore as against `26,677 crore in 201617(RE). The revenue receipts increased by 3.88 percent in 2017-18 over 2016-17. 2.21 The state‟s own taxes were estimated at ` 7,946 crore in 2017-18(BE) as against `7,217crore in 2016-17(RE) and `6,699 crore in 2015-16(A). The state‟s own taxes was estimated 10.10 percent more in 2017-18 (BE) as against 2016-17 (RE) .
The state‟s non-tax revenue (comprising mainly of interest receipts, power receipts, road transport receipts and other administrative service etc.) was estimated at `1,602 crore in 2017-18(BE). The state‟s non tax revenue was 5.78 percent of total revenue receipts in 2017-18.
The share of central taxes was estimated at `4,819 crore in 2017-18(BE).
The break-up of the state‟s own taxes reveals that sales tax of `5,135 crore constitute a major portion i.e. 40.23 percent of total tax revenue in 2017-18. The corresponding percentages for the year 2016-17(RE) and 2015-16(A) were 39.0 and 38.74 percent respectively. The revenue receipts from state excise duties is estimated at `1,351 crore in 2017-18 (BE)
The percentage of revenue surplus to total GSDP for the year 2015-16 is 1.0 percent and in 2016-17 the percentage of revenue deficit to the total GSDP is 0.75percent.

The State of Himachal Pradesh comprises of 12 districts. The Lead Bank responsibility has been allocated amongst three banks viz. PNB in 6 districts, namely Hamirpur, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi and Una; UCO Bank in 4 districts namely Bilaspur, Shimla, Solan and Sirmour and State Bank of India in 2 districts namely Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti. The UCO Bank is the Convenor Bank of State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC). Up to September 2017, the State has a network of 2,144 and more than 80 percent branches are functioning in rural areas. Banks have opened 83 new bank branches during October 2016 to September 2017. At present 1,742 branches are located in Rural areas, 311 in Semi-urban areas and 91 are functioning at Shimla, the only Urban Centre in the State classified by RBI.
As per census 2011, the average population per branch in the State comes to 3,202 against National level of 11,000. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in the State have total Branch Network of 1,202 branches up to September, 2017 thereby having more than 56 percent of total branch network of banking sector in the State. State Bank of India (SBI) after merger of its associate Banks have the largest network of 352 branches followed by Punjab National Bank having 330 branches, UCO bank is having 174 branches. Private Sector Banks have branch network of 133 branches with largest presence by HDFC with 67 branches followed by ICICI with 31 branches amongst Private sector banks.
There is a Regional Rural Bank (RRB) sponsored by PNB namely Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank (HPGB) having total branch network of 263 as on September 2017. The Co-operative Sector Banks have total branch network of 546 and State apex Co-operative Bank i.e. Himachal Pradesh Co-operative Bank (HPSCB) have Branch network of 213 and Kangra Central Co-operative Bank (KCCB) is having 217 branches. In terms of district-wise spread of bank branches, Kangra district have highest number of 419 bank branches and Lahaul-Spiti has lowest number of 23 branches. The outreach of bank services has further increased by installation of 1,940 ATMs by various banks. Bank has installed 122 new ATMs in the State between October, 2016 to September, 2017.
Banks have deployed Business Correspondent Agents (known as “Bank Mitras”) in sub service areas to provide Banking services to the far-flung areas where Brick and Mortar Branches are not financially viable. At present total 1,848 Bank Mitras are deployed in the State by various banks for providing Basic banking services in villages. The peer banks (PSBs) in the State viz. PNB, SBI, UCO, Canara Bank have full-fledged controlling offices (i.e. Regional office/ Zonal office/ Circle office) in the State. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has its Regional office headed by Regional Director and NABARD has Regional office headed by Chief General Manager at Shimla.
The Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Bank Ltd. is an apex Bank of the State, in three tier short term credit structure of the State. Bank is delivering banking services in remotest of the remote areas in six districts with a network of 218 branches and 23 extension counters, all these branches are on CBS mode. State Co-operative Bank is the first State Co-operative Bank in the country on the National financial switch through which the customers are getting ATM facilities all over the Nation and about 87 own ATMs on strategic locations. Bank has applied to Reserve Bank of India for obtaining licenses for 27 new branches and up gradation of 6 Extension Counters in to full fledged branches. Bank is also providing anywhere money transfer facilities through RTGS/ NEFT. The Bank is taking proactive steps towards financial inclusion and has adopted a BC Model in two villages with the help of Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies. Government of Himachal Pradesh has authorised the Bank to disburse pension to the retired government employees all across the State. The Bank is issuing RuPay, KCC Cards, Debit Cards and also providing Moblie Banking, SMS Alerts and auto renewal of FDRs facilities to its valuable customers. Bank is actively participating in Government of India Social Security Scheme i.e. PMJJBY and PMSBY.
The role and responsibility of banks has well recognized as a partner for accelerating the socio-economic growth wheel of the State. The flow of credit in all priority areas has been enhanced. As on September,2017 banks in the State has achieved four National Parameters, lending to Priority Sector, Agriculture Sector, Weaker Section and lending to women, out of six stipulated National Parameters by RBI. At present, banks have extended 72.38 percent of their total loans to the Priority Sector Activities viz. Agriculture, MSME, Education Loan, Housing Loan, Micro Credit etc.
Agriculture loans have proportion of 23.27 percent in total loans extended by Banks as of September, 2017 as against National Parameters of 18 percent set by RBI. Moreover Advances to Weaker Sections and Women have proportion of 20.59 percent and 8.10 percent in total lending by banks as against the National Parameters of 10 percent and 5 percent respectively. Credit Deposit Ratio (CDR) of banks in the State stood at 44.60 percent upto September, 2017. The position of National Parameters is given below in theTable-3.1

The Financial Inclusion denotes delivery of financial services and products at an affordable cost to the excluded sections of our society and low income groups. Government of India had launched a comprehensive Financial Inclusion Campaign- “Pradhan Mantri JanDhan Yojana” (PMJDY) through out the country including Himachal Pradesh to bring the excluded section of our society in formal banking system. This special campaign has completed more than three years and several initiatives are being taken-up to empower the weaker sections of society, including women small and marginal farmers and labourers both in rural and urban areas.
Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): Banks in the State have covered all the households with at least one Basic Saving Deposit Account of each household. Banks have total 10.55 lakh Basic Saving Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDA) under the scheme up to September, 2017. Out of total 10.55 lakh PMJDY accounts, banks have opened 9.20 lakh accounts in rural areas and 1.35 lakh accounts in urban areas. In the State, banks have issued RuPay Debit Cards to 8.06 lakh PMJDY account holders and thus covered more than 78 percent of PMJDY accounts. Banks have taken initiative to link the bank account with Aadhaar number and Mobile Number and seeded 88 percent of PMJDY accounts up to September, 2017.
Universal Social Security Initiatives Under PMJDY Scheme: In the 2nd phase of implementation of the scheme, Government of India has launched three Social Security Schemes as a comprehensive social security initiative targeted mainly at the poor and unprivileged. The present status of Social security scheme is mentioned as below:-
1.Micro Insurance Schemes:
i) PRADHAN MANTRI SURAKSHA BIMA YOJANA- (PMSBY): This scheme is providing renewable one year accidental death cum special ability cover of `2.00 lakh (`1.00 lakh for partial permanent special ability) to all the saving bank account holders in the age group of 18 to 70 years for a premium of `12.00 per annum per subscriber and renewable from 1st June every year. Banks have 11.57 lakh subscribers under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) up to September, 2017. The Insurance Companies have settled nearly 220 insurance claims under the PMSBY scheme upto December 2017.
ii) PRADHAN MANTRI JEEVAN JYOTI BIMA YOJANA- (PMJJBY) : This scheme is providing a renewable one year life cover of `2.00 lakh to all the saving bank account holders in the age group of 18 to 50 years, covering death due to any reason for a premium of `330.00 per annum per subscriber and renewable from 1st June every year. Banks have 3.02 lakh subscribers under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) upto September,2017. The Insurance Companies have settled nearly 578 insurance claims under the scheme upto December 2017.
2.Micro Pension Scheme:
i) ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY): Atal Pension Yojana is focused on the unorganized sector and it provides subscribers a fixed minimum pension of `1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 or 5,000 per month starting at the age of 60 years, depending on the contribution option exercised on entering at the age between 18 and 40 years. The fixed minimum pension would be guaranteed by the government if regular contribution is made for 20 years. While the scheme is open to the Bank account holders in the prescribed age group, the Central Government would also co-contribute 50 percent of the total contribution or `1,000 per annum, whichever is lower for a period of 5 years for those subscribers which are not member of any statutory social security scheme and are not income tax payers.
ii) The State Government has also provided to contribute in the Atal Pension Yojana. The cocontribution from State Government toward subscribers of APY will be made in eligible accounts subject to 50 percent of the total contribution by the subscriber or `2,000 whichever is lower. The State Government has made a budgetary allocation of `10.00 crore to cover the eligible workers / subscribers under the Atal Pension Yojana in Himachal Pradesh in 2017-18. The State Government is focusing on MGNREGA workers, Mid Day Meal workers, Agriculture and Horticulture labourers and Anganwari workers to adopt the Atal pension Yojana. Banks have focused on aggressive awareness campaign under the scheme through Camps, press media publicity etc. In the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), banks have enrolled more than 46,000 subscribers under the scheme up to September, 2017. The Department of Post is also participating in the APY Scheme and they have mobilized total 2,189 subscribers up to September,2017.
3.Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) rolled out in the country including Himachal Pradesh. The smaller of the micro enterprises mainly consist of non- farm enterprises in Manufacturing Trading and Services whose credit needs are below `10.00 lakh and all the loans given to these segments for income generation will be known as MUDRA loans. All advances granted on or after 08.04.2015 falling under this category be classified as MUDRA loan under the scheme.
Banks in Himachal Pradesh have sanctioned fresh loan to the tune of `375.92 crore to 19,200 new micro entrepreneurs under the Scheme in the current financial year 2017-18 up to period ended September,2017. Banks have cumulative position of loans disbursed under PMMY to the tune of `1,057.04 crore covering 67,507 entrepreneurs up to September,2017.
4.Stand-Up India Scheme (SUIS): Stand up India scheme has been formally launched throughout the country. Stand up India scheme aims to encourage entrepreneurial culture among unserved and underserved segments of the society represented by SC, ST and women.
The Scheme facilitate loan from Banks between `10.00 lakh and `1.00 crore to at least one Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) borrower and at least one woman borrower per bank branch for setting up of a new enterprise in the field of construction, business, service sector. (also termed as green field enterprise). Banks have sanctioned `116.59 crore to 649 new enterprises set up by SC/ST and Women entrepreneurs under the scheme up to September 2017.
5.Financial Awareness And Literacy Campaigns: Financial Literacy and Awareness campaign plays a significant role in reaching to the target groups. Banks are conducting financial Literacy campaign through the Financial literacy Centers (FLCs) and through its Bank Branches in Himachal Pradesh. There are total 22 Financial literacy Centers (FLCs) managed by Leads Banks i.e. PNB/ SBI/ UCO and Cooperative sector Banks viz. HP State Coop Bank (HPSCB), Jogindra Central Coop bank (JCCB) and Kangra Central coop Bank (KCCB). RBI has directed Rural Bank branches to conduct the FLC camps on regular basis at least once in a month with special focus on digital literacy and progress made by Banks and FLCs are being reviewed by RBI on regular basis.

The Aggregate Deposits of all banks operating in the State increased from `93,726.96 crore as on September, 2016 to `1,03,355.00 crore as on September,2017. The deposits of banks have grown at year over year growth of 10.27 percent. The Aggregate advances have also increased from `34,961.91 crore as on September, 2016 to `35,881.76 crore as on September, 2017 thereby having year over year growth of 2.63 percent. The total banking business have grown to `1,39,236.00 crore and registered year over year growth rate of 8.20 percent. 3.21 Public Sector Banks (PSBs) have the largest market share of 68 percent, RRB has market of 4 percent, Private Banks at 7 percent and Co-operative Sector Bank have market share of 21 percent. The comparative data is as under in the Table-3.2.

Banks prepared Annual Credit Plan for financial year 2017-18 for disbursement of fresh loan on the basis of potentials worked out for various priority sector activities by NABARD. The financial targets under Annual Credit Plan 2017-18 have been increased by 21 percent over the last plan outlay and fixed at `22,083.00 crore. Banks have disbursed a fresh loans to the tune of `9,170.00 crore upto September, 2017 and achieved 42 percent of Annual commitment. The Sector-wise target vis-a-vis achievement upto 30.09.2017 is as under in the Table 3.3.

National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM: The Ministry of Rural Development, launched flagship program of Government of India for promoting poverty reduction through building strong institutions of the poor, particularly women and enabling these institutions to access a range of financial services and livelihoods services. The scheme implemented in the State through HP State Rural Livelihood Mission (HPSRLM), Rural Development Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh. Banks have been allocated the annual target of `40.00 crore covering 3,285 beneficiaries under the Scheme in the State. Banks have sanctioned loan to the tune of `23.64 crore up to (` in crore) November, 2017 under NRLM scheme.
National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM): The Government of India, Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (MoHUPA), restructured the existing Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) and launched the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM). The Self Employment Programme (SEP) is one of the components (Component 4) of NULM which will focus on providing financial assistance through a provision of interest subsidy on loans to support establishment of individual and Group Enterprises and self-Help Groups (SHGs) of urban poor. NULM has been implemented in Himachal Pradesh by Urban Development Department Credit disbursement targets of `10.00 crore assigned under Self–Employment Programme (SEP) component of DAY NULM for financial year 2017-18 in Himachal Pradesh. Banks have disbursed loans to the tune of `3.16 crore under NULM as of 31.10.2017.
Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Prime Minister‟s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) is a credit linked subsidy programme administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is the nodal agency at national level for implementation of the scheme. At state level the scheme is implemented through KVIC, KVIB and District Industries center. In financial year 2017-18, a target of financing 2,250 new units under the scheme allocated to Banks. The implementing agencies have targeted to provide margin money disbursement to the tune of `4,462.98 lakh under the Scheme. Banks have sanctioned `1,708.00 lakh as margin money to the entreprenures of 711 units till the 21.11.2017.
Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS): The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Government of India is implementing the Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) through NABARD for Dairy sector activities. The capital subsidy under the scheme is administered through NABARD. Banks have sanctioned 279 proposals involving amount of `540.76 lakh up to September, 2017 under the DEDS.
Kisan Credit Cards: Banks are implementing Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) through their rural branches to provide adequate and timely credit support from the banking system under a single window to the farmers to meet the short-term credit requirements for cultivation of crops and other needs. Banks have disbursed fresh KCCs to 1,13,764 farmers amounting to `1,812.53 crore up to September, 2017. Banks have financed total 4,08,007 farmers under KCC scheme with amount of `5,757.33 crore up to September 2017.
Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs): Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) an initiative of Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) to have dedicated infrastructure at district level to impart training and skill up gradation of rural youth geared towards entrepreneurship development. RSETIs are managed by lead banks with active co-operation from the MoRD and Rural development Department of Government of Himachal Pradesh. The Lead Banks i.e. UCO Bank, PNB and SBI have set up Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) in 10 districts of the State (except in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts). These RSETIs are conducting EDPs under various Government sponsored programmes for poverty alleviation and to entrepreneurs under PMEGP Schemes. RSETIs have set a target of organizing total 216 training programmes in the year 2017-18 and total 5,530 candidates will be trained in the current financial year.
Special drive for Aadhaar linkages with Bank account and verification of Aadhaar in all existing bank account with deadline of 31.03.2018. : Aadhaar seeding in all bank accounts has been made mandatory. Hence banks have to ensure that new accounts opened from 01.06.2017 requires mandatorily seeding of Aadhaar and existing Accounts shall be seeded with Aadhaar latest by 31.03.2018 failing which the account will become inoperative In order to complete the task of Aadhaar seeding and authentication of all existing bank accounts within time frame i.e. 31.03.2018, process has been initiated by Banks to set up Aadhaar Enrollment and Updation Centers in selected branches. In Himachal Pradesh, 220 Aadhaar Enrollment and Updation Centers are identified by various Banks to provide facility of Aadhaar enrolment and updation facility.

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has strengthened its association with the developmental process substantially for Integrated Rural Development in the recent years by initiatives encompassing a wide range of activities viz. Development of Rural Infrastructure, Micro Credit, Rural Non-Farm Sector, Minor Irrigation and other agricultural sectors, besides strengthening the rural credit delivery system in the State. The active support from NABARD is generating tremendous social and economic benefits in the rural areas of the state. In addition to its own schemes, NABARD is also implementing centrally sponsored credit linked subsidy schemes of Government of India, like Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Schemes (DEDS), Solar Schemes, National Livestock Mission (NLM), Agriclinics and Agribusiness centres etc.
Rural Infrastructure: Government of India had created Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) within NABARD in the year 1995-96. Under this scheme, concessional loans are given by NABARD to State Government and State owned Corporations for the completion of on going projects as also to start new projects in certain selected sectors. This scheme has also been extended to Panchayati Raj Institutions, Self Help Groups and Non-Government Organizations for development of various location specific infrastructures having a direct bearing on society and the rural economy.
The development of infrastructure in rural areas through Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), since its inception in 1995-96, has emerged as NABARD's major intervention in partnership with the State Governments. The fund has continued with the yearly allocations in the successive Union Budgets. Under this scheme, loans are given by NABARD to State Governments and State owned Corporations for completion of on going projects as also to execute new projects in selected sectors. RIDF initially focused on execution of incomplete projects mainly under irrigation sector, however, financing over the years have become broad based covering 36 eligible activities classified into Agriculture and related sectors, social sector and rural connectivity.
From an initial allocation of `15.00 crore under RIDF-I from the year 1995-96, the allocation to the State has now reached the level of `510.60 crore under RIDF-XXIII (2017-18). RIDF has played an important role in development of diversified sectors like irrigation, roads and bridges, flood protection, drinking water supply in addition to primary education, veterinary services, watershed development, IT infrastructure etc. In recent years, innovative project for development of poly-houses and micro irrigation systems have been supported, a trend setter for development of agri-business and sustainable farming on commercial lines.
Financial assistance of `6,750.86 crore has been sanctioned under RIDF for implementation of 5,399 projects as on 31st December, 2017 to the state including rural roads/bridges, irrigation, rural drinking water, and education, animal husbandry etc. During the current financial year 2017-18, an amount of `510.60 crore has been sanctioned under RIDF–XXIII upto 31st December, 2017. An amount of `401.50 crore has been disbursed up to 31st December,2017 to the State Government raising the cumulative disbursement to `4,854.70 crore.
After the implementation/ completion of the sanctioned projects, drinking water will be made available to more than 42.73 lakh persons 8,151 km. road will become motorable, 2,804 mtrs. span bridges will be constructed and 1,25,761 hectares land will be benefited through irrigation projects.
In addition, about 27,317 hectare land will be protected from flood damages through protection measures, 6,219 hectare land will be covered under watershed projects. An area equivalent to 231 hectare of farm lands will be brought under poly-houses with micro irrigation systems on farmer fields. In addition, 2,921 rooms in Primary Schools, 64 Science Laboratories in Secondary Schools, 25 I.T. centres and 397 Veterinary Hospitals/ Artificial Insemination Centres have already been constructed.
NABARD Infrastructure Development Assistance (NIDA): NABARD earlier in 2011-12 started a line of credit for State owned institutions/ corporations with sustained income streams, both onbudget and off-budget, for creating rural infrastructure outside the ambit of RIDF borrowing. This opened new avenues for creating rural infrastructure in non traditional areas. In order to further widen the scope of financing rural infrastructure, financing through Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode is a major thrust area under NIDA. Infrastructure projects largely benefitting the rural areas and covered in a harmonized list of projects as approved by the Government of India/ Reserve Bank of India and activities covered under RIDF and Rurban mission are also eligible for funding under the PPP.
Food Processing Fund (FPF): NABARD has established a food processing Fund with a corpus of `2,000 crore for the year 2014-15 for providing financial assistance for establishing the designated food parks and also for setting up of individual food/ agro processing units in the designated Food Parks with the purpose to provide impetus to development of food processing sector on cluster basis in the country to reduce wastage of agricultural produce and to create employment opportunities, especially in rural areas. Cremica Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd. Singha, Una is being established with a financial assistance of `32.94 crore under the fund of which `24.76 crore has been disbursed as on 31.12.2017.
Refinance Support: NABARD extended financial support amounting to `728.92 crore during 2016-17 and `551.56 crore during 2017-18 upto 31st December, 2017 to the banks operating in the State by extending refinance disbursement for diverse activities viz. Rural housing, small road transport operators, land development, minor irrigation, dairy development, self help group, farm mechanization, poultry, plantation and horticulture, sheep/ goat/ piggery rearing, packing and grading house activity and other sectors. NABARD also supplemented the efforts of Coperative Banks and RRBs, for crop loan disbursement in the State by sanctioning ST (SAO) credit limit of `920.00 crore against which the banks have drawn refinance assistance of `920.00 crore on 31.03.2017. During 2017-18 credit limit of `920.00 crore was sanctioned and against it a total disbursement of `479.26 crore has been made as on 31.12.2017. A part from this, NABARD has introduced a new product “Additional Short Term (Seasonal Agriculture Operation)” in 2016-17 to meet the additional short term requirement to Cooperative Banks and RRBs. Under this fund, NABARD has sanctioned a sum of `90.00 crore to HPSCB in 2017-18 and 40.00crore to HPGB in 2017-18.

The Self Help Group (SHG) movement has spread across the state and is now on a firm base. The movement has been upscaled with support in the human resources and financial products. In Himachal Pradesh the cumulative number of credit linked Self Help Groups were stood at 45,735 covering 6.60 lakh rural households against 13.12 lakh total rural households in the state with a total loan outstanding of `110.42 crore as on 31st March,2017. Women Self Help Groups programme is being implemented by NABARD, through local NGOs, in two districts viz. Mandi, Sirmaur with grant support of `29.55 crore and target of formation and credit linkage of 1,500 and 1,455 Women SHGs respectively. As on 31.12.2017, cumulative 2,832 Women Self Help Groups have been saving linked and 2,611 Women SHGs have been credit linked.
The announcement in Union Budget 2014-15, financing of Joint Farming Groups “Bhoomi Heen Kissan” (landless farmers) has further given credence to effort of NABARD in innovating and reaching out to the landless farmers through Joint Liability Groups mode of financing. As on 31st March, 2017 nearly 2,084 Joint Liability Groups have been provided credit amounting to `689.66 lakh by banks in the State. For propagating “Self Help Groups Bank Linkage Programme” and “Joint Liability Group” scheme NABARD is partnering with about 50 Self Help Promoting Institutions/ Joint Liability Promoting Institutions in the State. During the year 2017-18, NABARD has sanctioned `10.00 lakh to Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank for promotion and credit linkage of 500 JLGs over a period of 3 years. Further, NABARD facilitates short duration skill development training for SHG members, having availed credit facility from banks. During 2017-18 (up to 31.12.2017) 30 number of Micro Entrepreneurship Development Programme (MEDPs) have been sanctioned to various SHPI partners, which resulted into 900 SHG members got training for undertaking livelihood activity either individually or in group mode. Further one Livelihood Enterprise Development Programme (LEDP) have been sanctioned during the year 201718 for training and entrepreneurship development of 90 SHG members.

A total number of 3,153 Farmers Clubs have been promoted in the state as on 31st December 2017 covering 38,836 farmers from 6,011 villages. A Federation of Farmers Clubs formed in Sirmaur district and another in Bilaspur district is working for the welfare of farmers.
Watershed Development: In addition to 10 Watershed development projects another watershed project has been sanctioned in Bhangal Khad for the year 2017-18 in Sirmaur District with grant assistance of `13.70 lakh with ARAVALI NGO. So far, an amount of `654.43 lakh has been disbursed under the projects against the sanctioned amount of ` 956.80 lakh. During the year 2017-18,up to 31.12.2017 an amount of `84.62 lakh was released. All the projects cover an area of about 12,489 hectares and 6,340 households from 119 villages. These projects would result not only in raising the water availability but prove to be an important mechanism for environment protection besides increasing productivity and income of the farmers and conserving the diminishing pastures, thus facilitating animal husbandry also.
Tribal Development through the Tribal Development Fund (TDF): In addition to four projects under tribal development fund NABARD, Regional Officer, Shimla has sanctioned another project with total financial support of `873.52 lakh including grant assistance of `817.22 lakh and loan assistance of `56.30 lakh covering 1,725 families. As on 31.12.2017, Pangi Block of Chamba district has given the grant assistance of `160.25 lakh. These projects aims at setting up of Wadis (small orchards) as well as dairy units in selected villages covering about 1,149 acres of area for plantation of Mango, Kinnow, Lemon, Apple, Walnut, Pear, Wild Apricot. The projects are expected to provide tribals with an opportunity to raise their income level through the wadi and dairy initiatives.
Support through the Farm Sector Promotion Fund (FSPF): Under FSPF, 23 projects and 17 seminars/ workshops/ fairs/ Apple exhibiton have been funded so far with a grant assistance of `210.61 lakh. So far up to 31.12.2017 a grant assistance of `174.27 lakh has been released for the purpose. These projects pertain to validation and promotion of fixed bee hives for rearing indigenous honey bee (Apis cerena), Promotion and Replication of System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method for sustainable livehood, Project for Agricultural Development with focus on System of Wheat intensification, Conservation of Chilgoza pines, cultivation of medicinal and aromatic and spice crops, production of exotic vegetables for sustainable farming and farmers training and demonstration on production and protection technology of temperate fruits in far flung areas. Through the projects and seminars/ workshops/ fairs about 30,000 farmers have been benefitted.
Promotion of Farmer Producer Organisation (FPOs): Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, has allocated a budget of `200.00 crore for formation of 2,000 Farmer Producer Organisations in the country. In the State of Himachal Pradesh, NABARD has sanctioned a grant of `489.24 lakh to 18 NGOs for formation / promotion of 54 FPOs in Shimla, Mandi, Kinnaur, Sirmaur, Chamba, Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti districts.These FPOs will undertake production, primary processing and marketing of vegetables, medicinal and aromatic plants and flowers on aggregation basis. As on 31st December 2017, an amount of `204.21 lakh has been released, 18 new FPOs have been sanctioned during 2017-18.
Umbrella Programme on Natural Resource Management (UPNRM: NABARD has been implementing NRM based projects like watershed and Wadi projects for the past 16 years under Indo-German collaboration with support from KFW and GTZ. With a view to restructure bilateral cooperation in the field of NRM, the Government of India and Germany have launched an UPNRM. NABARD and German Development Cooperation have been identified as the two strategic partners in the programme. The objective of the programme is to reduce poverty by creating livelihood opportunities, increasing farm income, strengthening the agriculture value chain and conserving the natural resources. To achieve environmental friendly economic growth across all strata of society, UPNRM supports projects that link natural resource management with livelihood improvements of the rural poor. In the State, up to 2017-18 (31.12.2017) financial assistance of `40.14 lakh has been sanctioned by Himachal Pradesh Regional Office of NABARD under UPNRM projects.

NABARD has identified Rural Non-Farm Sector as one of the thrust areas of development. It is providing refinance support to Commercial Banks/ RRBs and Cooperative Banks for development of Rural Non-Farm sector in the State. NABARD is also supporting Swarojgar Credit Card (SCC) Scheme by way of refinance, for the benefit of rural artisans and other small entrepreneurs, by keeping provision of timely and adequate credit for working capital or block capital or both to them. In addition to providing refinance for production and marketing of Rural Non-Farm products, NABARD is providing financial assistance for promotion of skill/ entrepreneurship development amongst the Rural Youth, Training by Master Craftsman, Rural Development and Self Employment Training Institutes. RUDSETI type of institutes engaged in training rural youth in various activities having potential for employment and income generation.
Ground Level Credit Flow: The credit flow at the ground level during 2016-17 for Priority Sector aggregated `12,926.18 crore representing an increase of 23.14 percent over 2015-16. The target for 2017-18 has been fixed at `19,179.26 crore for various banks based on Potential Linked Credit Plans prepared by NABARD. Till 30thSeptember, 2017, the achievement against this was `7,145.00 crore. NABARD has been preparing the district level Potential Linked Credit Plans (PLPs) on an annual basis for all districts of the State which reflect in a realistic way the ground level potentials, as also the credit and non-credit linkages needed for achieving the targets envisaged. The PLPs are prepared based on detailed discussions/ interaction with various stakeholders viz. State Govt, District Administration, Banks, NGOs, farmers and other related agencies. Broad sector wise PLP projections for 2018-19 has been assessed at `22,389.31 crore for Himachal Pradesh.

Financial Inclusion is the process of ensuring access to appropriate financial products and services needed by all sections of the society in general and vulnerable groups such as weaker sections and low income groups in particular at an affordable cost in fair and transparent manner by mainstream institutional players. Government of India constituted two funds viz. Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF) to provide impetus to financial inclusion initiates in the country. The following interventions FIF have been made by NABARD in Himachal Pradesh to scale up Financial Inclusion drive.
The objective of FIF is to support “developmental and promotional activities” with a view to securing greater financial inclusion, particularly among weaker sections, low-income groups and in backward regions/ hither to unbanked areas. NABARD continued to manage FIF for meeting the cost of developmental and promotional interventions. NABARD has sanctioned a support of `421.27 lakh in financial year 2017-18 to Banks and NGOs for spreading Financial Literacy and strengthening Banking Infrastructure of the State. The cumulative support granted till date under FIF is as under:
i) Digital Programme: NABARD with the motto of spreading Financial Awareness has sanctioned 6,420 financial literacy Awareness Programme to commercial banks, Cooperative Bank and RRB with a cumulative sanction of `321.00 lakh up to 31.12.2017.
ii) Addressing Connectivity issues of the State: To address the connectivity issues of the State, setting up of solar powered V-SAT/ Non-solar powered V-SATs on CAPEX or OPEX model was taken up. In this connection, NABARD has sanctioned `535.56 lakh for covering 247 sub Service Areas of SBI, PNB, UCO and HPGB Banks.
iii) Financial Awareness through Audio Jingles: NABARD has granted a cumulative sanction of `20.00 lakh to BIG FM and Radio Mirchi for spreading Financial Awareness through broadcasting of audio jingles in Himachal Pradesh.
iv) Bank Sakhi Model: NABARD has sanctioned a project of 50 Bank sakhis to HPGB, Mandi involving an amount `14.50 lakh wherein SHG Leaders/ Members will work as BC agents in the villages thereby thrusting the financial inclusion drive in the state.
v) Promotion of Cashless Transaction:
a) NABARD has sanctioned `1.20 crore to HPGB for deploying 2,000 PoS machines in 1,000 villages of Himachal Pradesh.
b) NABARD has given support of `30.00 lakh for capital expenditure i.e. for purchasing training equipment and maintenance thereof to all 10 RSETIs in Himachal Pradesh.
c) NABARD will also ensure coverage of 1.24 lakh Kissan Credit Card holders in Himachal Pradesh through Rupay Kisan credit thereby enabling the farmers to move towards the cashless front of the economy.
d) NABARD has also given support of `65.75 lakh to HPGB for setting up of 263 Micro ATMs in its branches to promote digital banking and is also sanctioning Mobile Demo Vans to Co-operative Banks and RRB for spreading awareness about digital banking in the State.

Financial Assistance to Producers Organisation (PODF): In order to support and finance Producers Organisations, NABARD has set up the “Producers Organisations Development Fund”. The fund has been set up to support any registered producers organization viz., Producers Company, Producers Cooperatives, registered Farmer Federations, Mutually Aided Cooperative Societies, Industrial Cooperative Societies, other registered federations, PACS, etc. set up by producers to meet the needs of the producers (farmers, artisans, handloom weavers, etc.) by providing timely credit (mix of loan and limited grant), capacity building of producers, strengthening of Producers' Organisations.
Financial assistance to PACS for taking up Multi Service Activities: In order to enable PACS to provide more services to their members and generate income for themselves, an initiative has been taken to develop PACS as Multi service Centres for enabling the PACS to provide ancillary services to their members and for creating additional business avenues and diversify its activities. In the year 2017-18 (up to 31.12.2017) financial assistance of `7.20 lakh has been sanctioned by NABARD.
Financial Assistance to Federations: In order to strengthen Marketing Federations/ Cooperatives in the marketing and other agriculture activities a separate line of credit, viz. Credit Facilities to Federations has been made available for the Marketing Federations/ Cooperatives to promote the marketing of agriculture produce and other agriculture activities. Marketing Federations/ Cooperatives having PACS and other producers‟ organisations, as members / shareholders are eligible to avail financial assistance under this scheme. Financial assistance will be available in the form of short term loan for crop procurement under Minimum Support Price Scheme (MSP) and supply of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, plant protection, etc to the farmers and in the form of long term loan for post harvest handling including sorting and grading, primary processing, marketing etc. Such Federations/ Cooperatives should also be supported for providing agro advisory services and market information through e-agriculture marketing.
Financial Assistance to Cooperative Banks: NABARD has been traditionally providing refinance support to District Co-operative Banks through State Cooperative Banks. NABARD has designed a Short Term Multi purpose Credit Product for financing the CCBs directly for meeting working capital and farm asset maintenance needs of the individual borrowers and affiliated Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS). A cash credit limit of `150.00 crore was sanctioned to Kangra CCB for the year 2017-18.
Government Sponsored Schemes: With a view to provide sustainable employment opportunities to members of SHGs and rural folks to increase their income level and also to increase milk production in the state by better cattle and milk management, through DEDS scheme of Government of India. During 2017-18 up to 31.12.2017 `297.23 lakh subsidy has been disbursed to 294 beneficiaries.
1) In addition to this, three more Government sponsored Schemes namely Agriclinic and Agribusiness centres Scheme, Scheme for commercial production Units of organic inputs under National Project on Organic Farming, and National Livestock Mission are operational in the state under which subsidy is routed through NABARD.

NABARD Consultancy Services (NABCONS) is a wholly owned subsidiary promoted by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and is engaged in providing consultancy in all spheres of agriculture, rural development and allied areas. Nabcons leverages on the core competence of the NABARD in the areas of agricultural and rural development, especially multi disciplinary projects, banking, institutional development, infrastructure, training, etc. The broad areas of specific competence in which the consultancy assignments are taken up by NABARD Consultancy Services are feasibility studies, project formulation, appraisal, financing arrangement, project management and monitoring, concurrent and impact evaluation, restructuring of agri-business units, vision documentation, development administration and reforms, institution development and turnaround of rural financial institutions, performance rating of rural agencies, bank supervision, policy and action research studies, seminars on rural development themes, micro finance related training, exposure visits and capacity building, training of trainers and building up training institutions, non-farm enterprise promotion.
In the State of Himachal Pradesh, NABCONS has completed the following major assignments with a quality benchmark and high level of client satisfaction;
i) Third party inspection of Border Area Development Programmes in kinnaur and lahaul-Spiti districts.
ii) Third party evaluation of interventions under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY)
iii) Evaluation of the poly house scheme under Pt. Deen Dayal Kisan Bagwan Samridhi Yojna.
iv) Preparation of DPRs, survey and investigations of Japan International Co-operative Agency projects in Mandi and Kangra districts.
v) Management Consultancy for CA/ CS stores and Mandi Automation for Himachal Pradesh Marketing Board.
vi) Preparation of State Irrigation Plan (SIP) District Irrigation Plan (DIP) under Prime Minister Krishi Sinchai Yojna (PMKYS) for 12 districts in the State.
vii) Evaluation of special central Assistance to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan Schemes in the State.
viii) Feasibility Study for setting up of 12 Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stores/ cold Stores in the State.
ix) Design, Development, Implementation and Maintenance of Mandi Management Information System in APMCs.
x) Appraisal of projects for Kangra Central Co-operative Bank Ltd.

NABARD provides assistance to Cooperative Credit Structure (CCS) for capacity building and creation of infrastructure as well as for introduction and better use of Information technology. NABARD created an exclusive and dedicated fund viz. Cooperative Development Fund (CDF) for this purpose. Assistance from the fund is provided to State Cooperative bank run training institute (ACSTI Shimla), District Central Cooperative banks and Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS). A total amount of `43.40 lakh was sanctioned during 2016-17 for development of cooperatives in the state.
Financial Assistance:
1) NABARD has been extending financial support to different cooperative training institutions (CTIs) under SOFTCOB out of CDF to facilitate the effective training delivery and support their training capacities. During the year 2016-17, NABARD extended financial support of `31.80 lakh to Agriculture Cooperative Staff Training Institute (ACSTI) established by Himachal Pradesh State Cooperative Bank (HPSCB) for capacity building of staff of cooperative credit institutions. Assistance helped in the capacity building of 747 workers through 27 training programmes. During 2017-18 as on 31.12.2017, financial support of `10.12 lakh was given to ACSTI under SOFTCOB.
2) An amount of `3.00 lakh was provided as grant to 04 Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) for infrastructure development viz. Almirah, Safe for cash, Computer and other furniture items. The support provided by NABARD helped the PACS in improvement of their image and ensuring better service to their members.
iii) An assistance of `0.60 lakh was sanctioned to the Jogindra Central Cooperative Bank, Solan for upgradation of the information technology and establishment of helpdesk in the bank. The infrastructure provided helped the bank to attend to operational issues faced by it and sort them out immediately.
NABARD‟s initiatives for Climate Change in Himachal Pradesh:
1) NABARD has been designated National Implementing Entity (NIE) for Adaptation Fund (AF), Green Climate Fund (GCF) set up under United Nation‟s Framework convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and for „National Adaptatiion Fund for climate change (NAFCC) set up by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
2) NABARD in its efforts to meet the future challenges of climate change has facilitated the preparation, development and sanction of a project on „Sustained Livelihoods of Agriculture Dependent Communities in Drought Prone District of Himachal Pradesh through Climate Smart Solutions‟ in Sirmaur District from the Executing Entity (EE) i.e. Department of Environment, Science and Technology, Government, of Himachal Pradesh. The MoEF and CC has sanctioned `20.00 crore for the project. An amount of `3.30 crore has since been released by NABARD as on 31st December, 2017.

The Department of Excise and Taxation is a major revenue earning department of the Government of Himachal Pradesh. During the year 2016-17 revenue collected under VAT was `4,381.91 crore, which is 71 per cent of total revenue collected i.e. `6,171.00 crore. During the year 2016-17 revenue of `1,307.87 crore, has been collected under the head 0039State Excise against the target of `1,351.49 crore which was 21.19 per cent of total revenue collection and remaining 7.81 per cent collection was under the HP Passenger and Goods Tax Act, HP Luxury Tax Act, HP Certain Goods Carried by Road Tax Act, HP Entertainment Tax Act and H.P. Toll Tax Act. The Government has fixed a target of `145.27 crore in respect of Head of Account 0042-PGT and `409.14 crore in respect of OTD-0045 for the financial year 2017-18 which is 9 percent higher than the previous financial year 2016-17.

The Department has provided different facilities and the targets fixed for these facilities have been described below:-
1) Assessing Authority has been authorized to sanction the refund up to `10.00 lakh. Earlier this limit was `5.00 lakh.
2) Dealers having taxable turnover up to `30.00 lakh were allowed to opt for composition scheme. Earlier this limit was `25.00 lakh.
3) Criteria for deemed assessment were widened as under:-
i) Turnover limit for deemed assessment was increased from `1.00 crore to `1.5 crore.
ii) Limit of input tax credit was increased to `8.00 lakh from `5.00 lakh.
iii) Limit of claim of refund was increased to `5.00 lakh from `3.00 lakh.
4) VAT rate on motor-spirit has been decreased from 27 per cent to 26 per cent w.e.f. 30th December, 2017.
5) VAT rate on diesel has been decreased from 16 per cent to 15 per cent w.e.f. 30th December 2017.
6) Himachal Pradesh became 4th State in India to implement the Goods and Service Tax 2017(GST). As a result, Himachal Pradesh VAT Act-2005, Himachal Pradesh Tax on Entry of Goods in to Local Area Act-2010, Himachal Pradesh Central Sales Tax Rules-1970, Himachal Pradesh Entertainment Duty Act-1968 and Himachal Pradesh Tax on Luxuries (On Hotels and Lodging Houses) Act-1979 have been subsumed in HPGST.
7) The facility of e-payment for the collection of taxes under the Himachal Pradesh Passengers and Goods Act-1955 and the Himachal Pradesh Taxation Act,1999 has been started since September, 2017.
8) Online issuance of New Licenses L-1D, L-13D, L-1S, L-13S, L-1W and L-13W made live.
9) Digitally signed online e-retail passes made available.
10) Online facility for generation of e-Way Bill (VAT-XXVI-A) under HPGST Act and Rules as notified by Government of Himachal Pradesh.
11) Online facility for issuance of online provisional license, license and passes of sub-vend.
12) Tax payment by unregistered dealers for payment of Allied Taxes made live and available to the dealers/ stakeholders of the State.
13) Excise Act-2011 which state for confiscation of vehicles used for smuggling of liquor has been stipulated since 18.08.2012.
14) The affixing of EALs/ Holograms on each and every bottle of IMFS and country liquor has been made compulsory to ensure providing of qualitative liquor to the consumers

Containment of Inflation is in the priority list of Government. Inflation hurts the common man most as their income is not indexed to prices. Inflationary tendencies are measured by Wholesale Price Index (WPI). The Wholesale Price Index at National level during the month of December,2016 was 111.7 which increased to 115.7(P) in the month of December, 2017 showing an inflation rate of (+)3.58 percent. The month-wise average Wholesale Price Index Numbers for the year 2017-18 depicting inflation rate is given in the Table 5.1 below:-

The price situation in Himachal Pradesh remained under constant watch. The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department of the State has been keeping constant vigil on the price situation and maintained the mechanism of supplying the essential consumer commodities to the public through a network of 4,922 fair price shops. In order to monitor food insecurity and vulnerability issues the Department of Food and Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs is also implementing Food Insecurity and Vulnerability Mapping System (FIVIMS) through G.I.S. As a result of various measures by the State Government the prices of essential commodities remained under control. Consumer Price Index (CPI) IW (Base 2001=100) of Himachal Pradesh increased at slightly higher rate as compared to the National level. The C.P.I. for industrial workers in Himachal Pradesh increased by only 5.28 percent in December, 2017 against 4.00 percent at National level. Further, in order to check hoarding, profiteering and other malpractices in the sale and distribution of essential commodities of mass consumption, the State Government is vigorously enforcing various Orders/ Acts. A system of regular weekly monitoring of prices of essential commodities continued during the year by the department of Economics and Statistics so that effective measures can be taken in time to check undue price rise.

One of the main constituent of the Government strategy for poverty alleviation is Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) which ensures availability of essential commodities like Wheat, Wheat Atta, Rice, Levy Sugar etc., through a net work of 4,922 Fair Price Shops. The total families for distribution of essential items have been divided in two categories viz;
1) National Food Security Act (NFSA) (Eligible Household):
i) Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)
ii) Priority Households
2) Other than NFSA (APL): In the State, the TPDS, having total ration cards 18,38,036 covering cards population 77,43,946. These card holders are provided with essential commodities through the network of 4,922 fair price shops which constitutes 3,221 Cooperative Societies, 14 Panchayat, 71 Civil Supplies Corporation, 1,609 Individual and 7 Mahila Mandals in the State.
Distribution of essential commodities during the year 2017-18, upto December, 2018.
Presently, following food items are being distributed under TPDS and H.P. State subsidised schemes which is as under :-

The H.P. State Civil Supplies Corporation as a “CENTRAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY” for all controlled and non-controlled essential commodities in the State is procuring and distributing food-grains and other essential commodities to the entire satisfaction of the Government under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and National Food Security Act (NFSA). During the current financial year, up to December,2017 the Corporation procured and distributed various commodities under TPDS to the tune of `911.25 crore as compared to `872.25 crore during the corresponding period of last year.
Presently, the Corporation is also providing other essential items like cooking gas, Diesel/ Petrol/ Kerosene Oil and lifesaving drugs/ medicines at reasonable rates to the consumers of the State through its 117 Wholesale godowns, 76 Retail Shops/ APNA STORE, 54 Gas Agencies, 4 Petrol Pumps and 36 Medicine Shops. In addition to this, the procurement and distribution, of non-controlled commodities (like sugar, pulses, rice, atta, detergents, tea leaves, exercise note books, cement, CGI Sheets, medicines, items under Supplementary Nutritional Programme, MNREGA- cement and petroleum products etc.) through wholesale godowns and retail shops of the Corporation which certainly has played an important role in stabilising prices of these commodities prevailing in the open market. During the current financial Year, 2017-18, up to December, 2017 the Corporation procured and distributed various commodities under the scheme to the tune of `370.48 crore as compared to `321.86 crore during corresponding period of last year.
The corporation is arranging the supplies of rice and other supplementary items under the Mid-dayMeal Scheme to Primary and Upper Primary Schools as per the allocation made by the concerned Deputy Commissioner. During the current financial year 2017-18 up to December, 2017 the Corporation arranged the distribution of 11,087 MT rice as compared to 11,428 MT during the corresponding period of last year under this scheme. The Corporation is also arranging the supplies of identified Specially Subsidized items (pulses of various kinds, Edible Oil (Mustard/ Refined) and I. Salt) under the State Sponsored Schemes as per the decisions of the purchase committee constituted by the Government. During the current financial year 2017-18, upto December, 2017 the Corporation has distributed these commodities under the said scheme to the tune of `292.00 crore as compared to `372.85 crore during corresponding period of last year to the Ration Card holders as per the scale fixed by the State Government. During the year 2017-18 for the implementation of this scheme, a budget provision of `220.00 crore has been made as State subsidy. During the year 2017-18 the corporation is likely to achieve a total turnover of over `1,500.00 crore as compared to `1,433.35 crore during the year 2016-17.
Proposal of opening APNA STORE / MALL: The Corporation has initiated proposal of opening “APNA STORE/ MALL” at Shimla, Solan, Dharmshala, Mandi. In the first phase, the APNA STORE/ MALL has been made functional at bus stand Nagrota Bagwan and Palampur, for the sale of various non-controlled items. Efforts are being made for opening APNA STORE/ MALL, Mandi and Shimla. In the Bus stand Kangra APNA STORE is being made functional very shortly. On the other hand more Medicine Shops are proposed to be opened in the premises of the Government Hospitals.

Himachal Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation Ltd. is managing the procurement and supplies of Ayurvedic medicines to Government hospitals, Cement to Government Department/ Board/ Corporations and other Government institutions and GI/ DI/ CI Pipes to I and PH Department of Government of Himachal Pradesh, School Uniform to Education department of Government of H.P. During the current financial year, 2017-18 the tentative position of Government supply remain as under:-
MNREGA Cement Supplies: During the financial year 2017-18 upto December, 2017 the Corporation managed the procurement and distribution of 23,36,932 bags cement amounting to `66.86 crore to various Panchayats for developmental works of the Panchayats in the whole of the State.

The Corporation is committed to provide all essential commodities, Petroleum products including kerosene oil and LPG in tribal and inaccessible areas, where private traders do not venture to undertake these operations due to economic nonviability of the trade. During the current financial year, 2017-18 the supplies of essential items and Petroleum products to tribal and snow bound area were arranged as per the tribal action plan of the Government.
Dividend: The corporation is earning profit since its inception i.e 1980. During the year 2016-17 a net profit of `2.24 crore was earned and a sum of `35.15 lakh was proposed to be paid as dividend to the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Under the task and responsibilities assigned by the Government of India to States for implementation of National Food Security Act 2013, the Himachal Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation is playing major role in implementing the scheme through timely procurement, storage and supply of allocated food grains through its 117 wholesale centres to Fair Price Shops for further distribution among the beneficiaries of the State. During the financial year 2017-18 up to December,2017, 63,835 MT rice and 36,909 MT wheat at the rate of `3.00 and `2.00 per kg per month respectively have been distributed to the identified beneficiaries. In addition to above, in the absence of separate Warehouse Corporation of the State Government, the Himachal Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation is managing storage capacity itself, through 22,470 MTs owned and 34,840 MT hired godowns in the State. In view of successful implementation of the NFSA, 2013 additional Storage Capacity is being created and efforts are being made for constructing of godowns at various places ranging from 300 MT to 1,000 MT capacity for which identification/ transfer of Government land in the name of the Department/ Corporation is in progress. State Government has provided funds to the tune of `4.00 crore, for creating additional food grains storage capacity during 2017-18.

During the current financial year, 2017-18, as per initiative taken by the corporation, the Steel Authority of India Ltd. has entrusted SAIL Yard at Bhattakuffar for the supply of quality steel to various Government Departments/ Boards/ Corporations, upto December, 2017 a total quantity of 1,604 MT steel had been supplied.

Agriculture is the main occupation of the people of Himachal Pradesh and has an important place in the economy of the State. Himachal Pradesh is the only State in the country whose 89.96 per cent population (Census 2011) lives in rural areas. Therefore dependency on Agriculture/ Horticulture is ominent as it provides direct employment to about 62 per cent of total workers of the State.
Agriculture happens to be the premier source of State Income (GSDP): About 10 per cent of the total GSDP comes from agriculture and its allied sectors. Out of the total geographical area of State (55.67 lakh hectare) the area of operational holdings is about 9.55 lakh hectares and is operated by 9.61 lakh farmers. The average holding size is about 1.00 hectare. Distribution of land holdings according to 2010-11 Agricultural Census shows that 87.95 percent of the total holdings are of Small and Marginal farmers. About 11.71 percent of holdings are owned by Semi Medium and Medium farmers and only 0.34 percent by large farmers. The distribution of land holdings in Himachal Pradesh has been depicted in Table-7.1
About 80 percent of the total cultivated area in the State is rainfed. Rice, Wheat and Maize are important cereal crops of the State. Groundnut, Soyabeen and Sunflower in Kharif and Rapeseed/ Mustard and Toria in the Rabi season are important oilseed crops. Urd, Bean, Moong, Rajmash in Kharif season and Gram Lentil in Rabi are the important pulse crops of the State. Agro-climatically the State can be divided into four zones viz.:-
1) Sub Tropical, sub-mountain and low hills.
2) Sub Temperate, Sub humid mid hills.
3) Wet Temperate high hills.
4) Dry Temperate high hills and cold deserts.
The Agro-climatic conditions in the State are congenial for the production of cash crops like seed potato, off-season vegetables and ginger.
The State Government is laying emphasis on production of offseason vegetables, potato, ginger, pulses and oilseeds besides increasing production of cereal crops, through timely and adequate supply of inputs, demonstration and effective dissemination of improved farm technology, replacement of old variety seed, promoting integrated pest management, bringing more area under efficient use of water resources and implementation of Wasteland Development Projects. There are four distinct seasons with respect to rainfall. Almost half of the rainfall is received during the Monsoon season and remaining precipitation is distributed among other seasons. The State received an average rainfall of 1,251 mm Kangra district gets the highest rainfall followed by Chamba, Sirmaur and Mandi.

The performance of agriculture is closely related to the performance of monsoon. During the monsoon season of 2017 (June- September) in Himachal Pradesh the rainfall received was Normal in Bilaspur Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi , Shimla Sirmaur, Solan and Una deficent in Chamba and Kinnaur and was scanty in Lahaul and Spiti. For Himachal as a whole, the total rainfall during the entire monsoon season was (-)15 percent below the annual normal rainfall. The Table 7.2 shows southwest monsoon performance in various districts.

The economy of Himachal Pradesh is largely depend on agriculture which still occupies a significant place in the State economy as 9.4 percent of total State Domestic Product in 2015-16 was generated by agriculture and allied sectors and any fluctuations in the production of foodgrains affect the economy significantly. During the Twelfth Five Year Plan, 2012-17 emphasis has been lai d on production of off-season vegetables, potato, pulses and oilseeds besides cereal crops through timely and adequate supply of inputs, bringing more area under irrigation, approach of watershed development, demonstration and effective dissemination of improved farm technology etc. The year 2016-17 agriculturally remained a normal year and the foodgrains production was anticipated around 17.45 lakh MT against 16.34 lakh MT achieved during 2015-16. The production of Potato was 1.96 lakh MT in 2016-17 as against 1.83 lakh MT in 2015-16. The production of vegetables during the year 2016-17 was 16.54 lakh MT as against 16.09 lakh MT in 2015-16.

The food grain production target for 2017-18 are to be around 16.45 lakh MT. The Kharif production mainly depends upon the behaviour of south west monsoon, as about 80 percent of the total cultivated area is rainfed. The sowing of Kharif crops starts from the end of April and goes up to the mid of June. Maize and Paddy are the the principal food-grain crops growing during Kharif season. Other minor crops are Ragi, Millets and pulses. An area of 384.26 thousand hectare was sown under different Kharif crops. During this season about 20 percent of area is sown in the month of April-May whereas remaining area is sown in the month of June and July which is a peak Kharif sowing period. Due to normal rain in the most part of the State, the sowing could be done in time and overall crop condition was normal.
However during Monsoon season 2016 there was heavy rain fall in some pockets of the State and standing Kharif crops were affected to some extent and the production of 9.55 lakh M.T. has been anticipated against the production target of 9.04 lakh M.T. for the Kharif 2016 season. During Rabi 2016-17 from October to December,2016 season the rain received were deficient by -93 percent in the post Monsoon season but the rains were received in the first fortnight of January, 2017, due to which late variety seeds were sown thus minimizing the possibility of loss due to draught.
As such against the Rabi 2016-17 target of 6.97 lakh M.T. the total production of 7.90 lakh M.T. has been anticipated. The crop wise production of foodgrains and commercial crops in Himachal Pradesh during 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17 and target for 2017-18 is shown in Table 7.4

There is limited scope of increasing production through expansion of cultivable land. Like whole country, Himachal too has almost reached a plateau in so far as cultivable land is concerned. Hence, the emphasis has to be on increasing productivity levels besides diversification towards high value crops. Due to an increasing shift towards commercial crops, the area under food-grains production is gradually declining as the area which in 1997-98 was 853.88 thousand hectares is likely to be declined to 764.85 thousand hectares in 2015-16. Increase in production thus reflects gain in productivity as is evident from the Table 7.5

In order to increase the production of foodgrains, emphasis has been laid on distribution of seeds of high yielding varieties to the farmers. Area brought under high yielding varieties of principal crops viz. Maize, Paddy and Wheat during the last five years and proposed for 2017-18 is given in table 7.6. There are 20 Seed Multiplication Farms from where foundation seed is distributed to registered farmers. In addition, there are 3 Vegetable Development Stations, 12 Potato Development Stations and 1 Ginger Development Station in the State.
Plant Protection Programme: In order to increase the production of crops, adoption of plant protection measures is of paramount importance. During each season, campaigns are organised to fight the menace of crop disease, insects and pest etc. The Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes, IRDP families‟ farmers of Backward Areas and small and marginal farmers are provided plant protection chemicals and equipments at 50 percent cost. It is the approach of the Department to reduce consumption of Plant Protection Chemicals by gradually switching to Biological control of pests/diseases. The subsidies are being met from the Non Plan. Achievements and Targets proposed in distribution of chemicals are shown in Table 7.7
Soil Testing Programme: In order to maintain the fertility of the soil during each crop season, soil samples are collected from the farmers‟ fields and analysed in the soil testing laboratories. Soil testing laboratories have been established in all the districts (except Lahaul and Spiti), where as four mobile soil testing vans/labs out of which one exclusively for the tribal areas is in operation for testing the soil samples at site. These laboratories have been strengthened with latest equipments. At present 11 soil testing labs have been strengthened and 7 mobile labs have also been setup by the department and about 1.00 lakh soil samples are collected for soil analysis in a year.
During 2015-16 and 2016-17, 69,635 Soil Samples were analyzed and about 3.85 lakh Soil Health Cards were distributed. During 2017-18 a target of 50,000 grid soil samples has been fixed and about 48,038 soil health cards will be provided. Soil testing programme has been adopted as Flagship programme by the Government.
It has been ensured to provide Soil Health Cards to every eligible farmer by the end of 12th Plan which will help farmers to know the soil status and nutrient requirement etc. in their fields and to adopt soil test basis recommendations to use nutrient in their crops/ fields. The soil fertility map is being prepared by the Chaudhari Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishav Vidyalaya Palampur by using Global Positioning System (GPS). The State Government has also declared soil testing as public service under H.P. Public Service Guarantee Act, 2011.

The organic farming is becoming popular being sustainable, environmental friendly and health concern to all concerned. Organic farming is being promoted in the State in a systematic manner by providing trainings, laying out demonstrations, organizing fairs/ seminars to the farmers. It has also been decided to set-up vermi-composting units at every house. Under this scheme financial assistance of `6,000 per farmer is being provided (50 percent assistance for construction of Vermin pit size of 10x6x1.5 ft.). Beside this, incentive is being provided on approved organic inputs. For adoption of Organic Farming, incentive `10,000 per hectare (50 percent) and for certification `10,000 per hectare is being provided for 3 years.
Bio-Gas Development programme: Keeping in view the depleting sources of conventional fuel i.e. firewood, biogas plants have assumed great importance in the low and mid hills in the State. Till March, 2017 since inception, 44,778 Bio-gas plants have been installed in the State. During 2016-17, 107 number of Biogas plants were installed in the state and it was proposed to install 100 more Bio-gas plants during 2017-18 against which 25 number of such plants have already been installed upto December, 2017. This programme is at saturation stage.
Fertilizer Consumption and Subsidy: Fertilizer is a critical input, which helps in increasing the production to a great extent. The level of fertilizer consumption in 1985-86 was 23,664 tonnes, which is now increased to 56,491 tonnes in 2016-17. In order to promote balanced use of chemical fertilizers, a subsidy of `1,000 per MT on complex fertilizers have been allowed, use of water soluble fertilizers is promoted in a big way for which subsidy has been allowed to an extent of 25 percent of cost limited to `2,500 per quintal whichever is less. The subsidy is being provided under the Plan schemes. About 57,409 MT of fertilizers in terms of nutrients are proposed to be distributed during 2017-18.

Traditionally, noninstitutional sources of finance have been the major source of finance for the rural households due to various socio economic conditions. Some of them have been lending at exorbitant rate of interest and since the poor own few assets, it is unviable for the financial institutions to secure their lending with collateral. However, the Government has taken measures to ensure timely and adequate supply of institutional credit to the rural households at reasonable rate of interest.
In view of the propensity of the farmers to borrow money, most of whom are marginal and small farmers, credit flow for purchase of input is being made available by the banks. Institutional credit is being extensively disbursed but there is scope to increase the same particularly in respect of the crops for which insurance cover is available. Providing better access to institutional credit for small and marginal farmers and other weaker sections to enable them to adopt modern technology and improved agricultural practices has been one of the major objectives of the Government. The banking sector prepares crop specific credit plans and the credit flow is monitored urgently in the meetings of the State level Bankers Committee.

The scheme is under successful operation for the last twelve to thirteen years in the State. More than 1955 bank branches are implementing this scheme. The total percentage of farmers covered under this scheme is nearly 43 percent of the total farmers.

The State Government has introduced this scheme from Rabi, 1999-2000 season. Now Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna(PMFBY) has been launched in the state from Kharif, 2016 season as per the administrative approval and operational guidelines issued by the Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. In this insurance scheme, Maize and Paddy crops have been covered during Kharif season. The different stages of risk leading to crop loss due to preventing sowing, post harvest losses, localized calamities and losses to standing crops (from sowing to harvest) have been covered under this new scheme.
The scheme is compulsory to loanee farmers availing Seasonal Agricultural Operational (SAO) crop loans for the insurable crops from the Banks and Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACs) and optional for the Non loanee farmers. Under PMFBY claims beyond 350 percent of premium collected or percentage of claims to sum insured exceeds 35 percent whichever is higher at the National level, of all the companies combined, shall be paid by Center and State equally. The Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture has launched another Crop Insurance Scheme from Kharif, 2016 season called “Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme. (R-WBCIS) The scheme intends to provide insurance protection to the cultivators against Natural Calamities which are deemed to adversely affect the Kharif crops during its cultivation period.
Total 2.86 lakh farmers and 89,780 hectres have been covered till now upto Rabi 2016-17 season. Under this scheme, a budget outlay of `400.00 crore has been proposed for 2017-18 which has been utilized for the payment of State share of premium subsidy.
Seed Certification Programme: Agro-climatic conditions in the State are quite conducive for seed production. In order to maintain the quality of the seeds and also ensure higher prices of seeds to the growers, Seed certification programme has been given due emphasis. Himachal Pradesh State Seed Certification Agency registered growers in different parts of the State for seed production and certification of their produce.
Agriculture Marketing: For the regulation of agricultural produce in the State, Himachal Pradesh Agricultural/ Horticulture Produce Marketing Act, 2005 has been enforced. Under the Act, Himachal Pradesh Marketing Board has been established at the State level. The whole of H.P. has been divided into ten notified market areas. Its main objective is to safeguard the interest of the farming community. The regulated markets established in different parts of the state are providing useful services to the farmers.
A modernised market complex at Solan is functional for marketing of agricultural produce, besides construction of market yards in different area. At present 10 market committees are functioning and 58 markets have been made functional out of which 19 mandies have been enrolled under e-markets. Under this head of development, no funding is made from State Plan and revenue generated under this Act is utilized for raising infrastructure needed for ensuring remunerative marketing of the Agriculture Produce.
The H.P. Agricultural Produce Market Act has also been amended on the lines of Modal Act circulated by Government of India. With this a provision has been made for setting up the private markets, direct marketing, contract farming and single point levy of entry fee. The markets are also being computerized. All the activities have been taken up by the Marketing Board through their own funds and RKVY.
Tea Development: Total area under tea is 2,310 hectares with a production level of 9.21 lakh Kgs achieved in 2016-17. Schedule Caste tea planters are provided agriculture inputs on 50 percent subsidy. In the last few years, there is slump in the market and tea industry has been affected badly. It is envisaged to give impetus for effective and remunerative returns of this commodity to the producers. Focus would also be on result and demonstration.
Agriculture Mechanisation: Under this scheme, new farm implements/ machines are popularized among the farmers. Testing of new machines is also done under this programme. The department proposes to popularize small power tillers and implements suited to hilly conditions.

Due to topographical factors the soil is subject to splash, sheet and Gully erosion resulting into degradation of the soil. Besides this there is biotic pressure on the land. To curb this menace particularly on the Agriculture lands, the Department is implementing two soil and water conservation schemes under state sector. The schemes are:-
i) Soil Conservation Works.
ii) Water conservation and development.
Water conservation and minor irrigation programme has been accorded priority in order to boost agriculture production. The Department has prepared a plan to harvest rain water by constructing tanks, Ponds, check-dams and storage structures. Besides this, low lifting water devices and efficient irrigation system through sprinklers are also being popularized. In these projects, major thrust would be on soil and water conservation and creation of employment opportunities at farm level.
Dr.Y.S.Parmar Kisan Swarozgar Yojna: In order to achieve faster and more inclusive growth in agriculture sector, Government of Himachal Pradesh has started “Dr.Y.S.Parmar Kisan Swarozgar Yojna.” Project components include creation of need based infrastructure and are expected to fulfil the objectives of high productivity, quality, safeguard against adverse weather, efficient input use etc. Project components include construction of location specific models of poly houses with micro irrigation facility. For this, 85 percent project assistance shall be provided to the farmers. Also for creation of water sources individually and collectively by a group of farmers, (low/ medium lift, pumping machinery) 50 percent subsidy shall be provided.
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY): Concerned by the slow growth in agriculture and allied sectors, the Government of India has launched Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna. The RKVY aims at achieving 4 percent annual growth in the agriculture sector during this Plan period, by ensuring a holistic development of Agriculture and allied sectors. The main objectives of the scheme are as under:-
1) To incentivize the States so as to increase public investment in Agriculture and allied sectors.
2) To provides flexibility and autonomy to states in the process of planning and executing Agriculture and allied sector schemes.
3) To ensure the preparation of agriculture plans for the districts and the states based on agro- climatic conditions, availability of technology and natural resources.
4) To ensure that the local needs/ crops/ priorities are better reflected in the agricultural plans of the states.
5) To achieve the goal of reducing the yield gaps in important crops, through focused interventions.
6) To maximize returns to the farmers in Agriculture and allied sectors.
7) To bring about quantifiable changes in the production and productivity of various components in Agriculture and allied sectors by addressing them in a holistic manner.
The Government of India has allocating funds for agriculture growth which includes Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Rural Development. The budget provision amounting to `39.00 crore has been made in favour of Agriculture Department for the year 2017-18. However, projects worth `22.94 crore has been approved by SLSC under RKVY for the year 2017-18.
National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET): During 12th Five Year Plan the National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET) has been launched to make the extension system farmer-driven and farmer arrangement of technology dissemination. NMAET has been divided into Four Sub-Mission.
1) Sub Mission on Agriculture Extension (SAME).
2) Sub Mission on Seed and Planting Material (SMSP).
3) Sub Mission on Agriculture Machanization (SMAM).
4) Sub Mission on Plant Protection and Plant Quarantine (SMPP).
The new component will be in the ratio 90:10 Centre and State share. An expenditure of `250.00 lakh is anticipated during 2017-18 out of State Plan.
National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Sustainable agriculture productivity depends upon quality and availability of Natural resources like soil and water. Agricultural growth can be sustained by promoting conservation and sustainable use of these scarce natural resources through appropriate location specific measures. Thus, conservation of natural resources in conjunction with development of rain fed agriculture holds the key to meet burgeoning demand for food grain in the state. Towards this end, National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) has been formulated for enhancing agricultural productivity especially in rain fed areas. Main deliverable under this mission are:
1) Developing rain fed agriculture.
2) Natural resources management.
3) Enhancing water use efficiency.
4) Improving soil health.
5) Promoting conservation agriculture.
It is a centrally sponsored scheme and the component will be in the ratio of 90:10 center and state share respectively. An expenditure of `200.00 lakh is anticipated during 2017-18 under State Plan.
National Food Security Mission (NFSM): The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) aimed at to enhance the production of Rice, Wheat and Pulses.NFSM has been launched in the State from Rabi 2012 with two major components viz.NFSM-Rice and NFSMWheat.Under NFSM-Rice is in operation in three districts of state and whereas NFSM-Wheat in nine district with 100 percent assistance from Central Government. The aim of Mission is to increase production of Rice and Wheat through area expansion and productivity enhancement restoring soil fertility and productivity, creativity employment opportunities and enhancing level of farm economy in targeted districts. An expenditure of `165.00 lakh is anticipated during 2017-18 under State Plan.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana: In an attempt to improve the Agricultural productivity, the government of India has started a new scheme, viz. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). Microirrigation projects (“Har Khet Ko Pani”) and end-to-end irrigation solutions will be the key focus of this scheme. “The major objective of the PMKSY is to achieve convergence of investments in irrigation at the field level, expand cultivable area under assured irrigation, improve on-farm water use efficiency to reduce wastage of water, enhance adoption of precision-irrigation and other water-saving technologies”. Under this scheme a budget provision of `2.00 crore has been proposed for the year 2017-18 under state plan.
Rajiv Gandhi Micro-Irrigation Scheme: State Government is commited to promote Agriculturte in the State by increasing the productivity of crops. For efficient system of irrigation the Government has launched crucial Project named „Rajiv Gandhi MicroIrrigation Scheme‟ with an outlay of `154.00 crore over a period of 4 years starting from 2015-16 to 2018-19. Through this project 8,500 hectare area will be brought under Drip/ Sprinkler Irrigation System benefitting 14,000 farmers. The subsidy @ 80 percent for the installation of Micro-Irrigation systems such as Drip, Micro, Mini Portable Sprinkler, Semi-Permanent Sprinkler and large volume Sprinkler and 50 percent for augmentation of water sources would be provided to the farmers. During 2016-17, an area of 709.85 hectares has been brought under Micro-irrigation Systems and 1183 farmers were benefitted. A budget provision of `10.00 crore has been made for this component during 2017-18.
Uttam Chara Utpadan Yojna: With a view to increase fodder production in the state, the state Government has launched a scheme; „Uttam Chaara Utpadan Yojana‟for fodder development by bringing an area of 25,000 hectare under fodder production. Quality seed of fodder grasses, cuttings, seedings of improved fodder varieties will be supplied on subsidized rates to the farmers. Subsidy on Chaff Cutters is available to the SC/ ST and BPL farmers. A provision of `6.00 crore has been proposed for 201718.

The rich diversity of agroclimatic conditions, topographical variations and altitudinal differences coupled with fertile, deep and well drained soils favour the cultivation of temperate to sub-tropical fruits in Himachal. The region is also suitable for cultivation of ancillary horticultural produce like flowers, mushroom, honey and hops.
This particular suitability of Himachal has resulted in shifting of land use pattern from agriculture to fruit crops in the past few decades. The area under fruits, which was 792 hectares in 1950-51 with total production of 1,200 tonnes increased to 2,29,202 hectares during 2016-17. The total fruit production in 2016-17 was 6.12 lakh tonnes, while during 2017-18 (upto December,2017) has been reported as 5.00 lakh tones. During 2017-18, it was envisaged to bring 3,000 hectares of additional area under fruit plants against which 2,552.44 hectares of area was brought under plantations and 6.69 lakh fruit plants of different species were distributed upto 31st December,2017.
Apple is so far the most important fruit crop of Himachal Pradesh, which constitutes about 49 percent of the total area under fruit crops and about 85 per cent of the total fruit production. Area under apple has increased from 400 hectares in 1950-51 to 3,025 hectares in 1960-61 and 1,11,896 hectares in 2016-17.
The area under temperate fruits other than apple has increased from 900 hectares in 1960-61 to 28,163 hectares in 2016-17. Nuts and dry fruits exhibit area increase from 231 hectares in 1960-61 to 10,364 hectares in 2016-17, Citrus and other sub tropical fruits have increased from 1,225 hectares and 623 hectares in 1960-61 to 24,475 hectares and 54,304 hectares in 2016-17 respectively.
This pace of development is further jeopardized due to the erratic apple production, owing to weather vagaries and market fluctuations. The advent of WTO, GATT and liberalisation of economy is further imposing many challenges on the dominance of apple in fruit industry of Himachal Pradesh. The fluctuations in the production of apple during last few years have attracted the attention of the Government. It is necessary to explore and harness the vast horticulture potential of the hill State through diversified horticulture production in varied agro-ecological zones.
Horticulture Development scheme is the major programme aiming at the creation and maintenance of infrastructural facilities in the rural areas for ensuring equitable access to the resources and inputs required for the promotion of all fruit crops. Under this scheme, the programmes like development of fruit production, area expansion programme, demonstration of new technologies and improved package of practices on the orchards of fruit growers, development of Walnut/ Hazelnut / Pistachio nut, mango / litchi, strawberry and olive are being implemented.
The fruit growers should get better price of their produce, for this purpose Marketing Intervention Scheme is being implemented in the State. Under this scheme during the year 2017-18 the procurement price of Apple has been increased to `7.00 per Kg., Citrus fruits B and C grade Kinnow, Sagntra, Malta up to 500 MT raised to `7.00 per Kg. and `6.50 per Kg. and rate of Galgal fruit up to 100 MT increased to `5.50 per Kg. where as the procurement price for Mango is `5.50 per Kg. of seedling Mango up to 300 MT and `6.50 per Kg. of grafted Mango up to 200 MT. This year 30,658 MT C-grade Apple fruit value to `21.46 crore has been procured under this scheme. However no Mango fruit (Seedling and Grafted varieties) was offered for procurement.
In warmer area of the State mango has emerged as an important fruit crop. Litchi is also gaining importance in certain regions. Mango and litchi are fetching better market prices. In the midhill zone, the agroclimatic conditions are highly suitable for the successful cultivation of new fruits like kiwi, olive, pomegranate, pecan and strawberry. The production of fruits for the last three years and current year upto December,2017 is given in table 7.9. Table 7.9 Fruit Production (‟000 tonnes)
To bring diversification in horticulture industry a total area of 156.19 hectares has been brought under flower cultivation upto 31.12.2017. To promote flower cultivation two Tissue Culture Laboratories have been established under Model Flower Cultivation Centres at Mahogbagh (Chail, District Solan) and Palampur District Kangra. Four Farmers Cooperative Societies are functioning for the production and marketing of flowers in district Shimla, Kangra, Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba. Ancillary horticultural activities like mushroom and Bee keeping are also being promoted. During 2017-18 upto December, 2017, 429.76 MT of pasteurized compost for mushroom was prepared and distributed from the department units located at Chambaghat, Bajoura and Palampur. A total of 5,077.00 MT of mushroom was produced in the State upto December,2017. Under the Bee keeping programme, 286.70 MT of honey has been produced upto 31.12.2017 in the State.
The weather based Crop Insurance Scheme was initially launched in Himachal Pradesh in 6 Blocks for apple crop and in 4 Blocks for Mango crop during Rabi 2009-10. In view of the popularity of this scheme, the coverage under this scheme has been extended during the consecutive years. During 2017-18, the scheme is being implemented in 36 Blocks for Apple, 41 Blocks for Mango, 15 Blocks for Citrus, 13 Blocks for Plum and 5 Blocks for Peach crops. In addition to this, to protect apple fruit crop from hailstorm 19 Blocks have been covered under Add-on cover scheme. From the year 2016-17 name of the scheme has changed to Restructed Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (R-WBCIS) and sum insured has been revised and bidding system has been introduced. During Rabi season 2016-17, 95,283 farmers have been covered under Restructed Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme for apple, peach, plum, mango and citrus fruit crops who have insured their 79,22,387 trees for which the State Government has borne 25 percent premium subsidy of `14.05 crore.
For the implementation of centrally sponsored scheme RKVY during the year 2017-18 funds amounting to `350.00 lakh have been received as approved allocation as per availability of funds out of which `175.00 lakh have been released so far as 1st installment and a total number of 13,537 farmers have been benefitted from the year 2007-08 to December, 2017 under this scheme. For “Horticulture Development through Farm Mechanization” funds amounting to `300.00 lakh and for “Establishment of Mushroom units in Private Sector” funds amounting `50.00 lakh have been received. For the implementation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme MIDH during the year 2017-18 funds amounting to `35.55 crore have been approved, out of which `11.11 crore have been received and a total number of 2.33 lakh farmers have been benefited from the year 2003-04 to December,2017 under the scheme. To promote protected cultivation in horticulture, the State Government has enhanced subsidy under Poly Houses from 50 percent to 85 percent and 33,500 sq. metre area is targeted under Green Houses during year 2017-18. To protect fruit crops especially apple from hailstorms, the State Government has enhanced subsidy on Anti Hail Nets from 50 percent to 80 percent by targeted to bring 7.02 lakh Sq. metre area under Anti Hail Nets during the year 2017-18.

H.P.M.C. a State public undertaking was established in the Pradesh with the objective of marketing fresh fruits and vegetables, processing the unmarketable surplus and marketing the processed products. Since its inception, HPMC has been playing pivotal role in the life of fruit growers of the state by providing them remunerative returns of their produce.
During the year 2017-18 up to 31st December, 2017 HPMC has registered overall turnover of `4,567.16 lakh against the target of `9,200.00 lakh fixed for the financial year 2017-18. Under Market Intervention scheme, during the year 2017-18, the Govt, of H.P. continued a policy of market intervention scheme (MIS) of Mango, Apple and Citrus fruit in the state with the support price as under:- Also, under Market Intervention Scheme (MIS-2017) for apple the HPMC has procured about 15,926 MT. The Corporation processed 8,311 MT Apple of “C” grade and extracted 746.00 MT Apple Juice Concentrate during the financial year 2017-18. The Corporation has not procured any fruits as on 15th of January, 2018 from the growers under MIS 2017-18. The corporation is mainly supplying its products to its bulk buyers, Railway, Northern Command Head quarter Udhampur, various religious institutions, M/S Parley and other reputed Institutions, retail outlets and kiosks in the country. The Corporation has sold 419.
46 MT of Apples juice concentrated for `573.41 lakh and other process products for `966.57 lakh to these institutions. HPMC also continued supplying fruits and vegetables to ITDC Hotels and institutions in Metro cities Delhi, Mumbai and Chandigarh. As on 31.12.2017 HPMC has supplied fruits and vegetables worth `457.85 lakh to these institutions. HPMC has sold material worth `354.73 lakh to the growers in the State. The Corporation has generated revenue of `515.97 lakh through its Cold Stores in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Parwanoo and five Controlled Atmosphere stores of producing area of Himachal Pradesh.
The corporation has traded fruits to the value of `81.04 lakh and generated income of `502.79 lakh from trucks, rent, commission earned and sale of other material such as Packaged Drinking Water, Mineral Water, farm inputs, tax paid items of other company etc. till the end of December, 2017 and also the Corporation has sold PP food worth of `1539.98 lakhs in the domestic market up to December, 2017.
The Corporation has been able to got sanctioned total grant in aid `3,449.95 lakh to HPMC for up gradation of Technology from APEDA. Government of India. These have been got for the following projects:-
i) Up- gradation of packing houses of Jarol Tikker (Kotgarh), Gumma (Kotkhai), Oddi (Kumarsain), Patlikuhl (Kullu) and Reckong Peo with 100 percent financial assistance of `797.30 lakh.
ii) The HPMC has commissioning of two CA Stores at Gumma and Jarol-Tikkar in District Shimla with grant in aid of `1,009.00 lakh.
iii) Setting up of one modern vegetable pack house and cold room at Nadaun District Hamirpur and setting up of Pack house and cold room for packing grading of fruits, vegetables, flowers and culinary herb at Ghumarwin in District Bilaspur with 100 percent grant in aid of `788.50 lakh.
iv) Replacement of Tetra Pack filling machine TBA-9 in to TBA-19 under 100 percent grant in aid of `355.15 lakh to installed at fruit processing plant Parwanoo District Solan to improved the efficiency in production.
v) Grant in aid to the tune of `10.00 crore for the up gradation of AJC Plant at Parwanoo has been sanctioned. In addition to above, last year HPMC has converted 3 cold storages into CA stores with a capacity of 700 MT each at Rohru, Oddi and Patlikuhl with financial support from the Himachal Pradesh Government through NABARD loaning and further leased out to the parties and has started return on investment.
vi) HPMC is looking forward to upgrade the remaining existing infrastructure of pack house, cold store, CA store and Fruit Processing Plant etc. Also to set up same viable green field project in the catchment area with modern technology to facilitate the farmers under PPP mode so that good and efficient marketing results comes out to increase the revenue for the corporation. Also considering other Non-Performing Assets (NPA) and loss going unit to privatize for operational purposes like CS Delhi, Chennai and Parwanoo.

Rearing of livestock is an integral component of rural economy. In Himachal Pradesh there is a dynamic relationship between common property resources (CPRs) such as forests, water and grazing land, livestock and crops. Livestock depend to a certain extent on fodder and grass grown on CPRs as well as on crops and residues. At the same time the animals return fodder, grass and crop residues to the CPRs and fields in the form of manure and provide much needed draught power. 8.2 Livestock thus is an important integral to the sustainability of economy of Himachal Pradesh. The contribution of major livestock products during the year 2016-17 was 13.28 lakh tonne of milk, 1,476 tonne of wool, 95.90 million eggs and 4,406 tonnes of meat which will likely to be of the order of 14.48 lakh tonne of milk, 1,500 tonnes of wool, 100 million eggs and 4,400 tonne of meat during 2017-18. Milk Production and Per Capita availability shown in Table- 8.1
Animal Husbandry plays an important role to boost the rural economy and as such for livestock development programme attention is paid in the state by way of:
i) Animal Health and Disease control.
ii) Cattle Development.
iii) Sheep Breeding and Development of Wool.
iv) Poultry Development.
v) Feed and Fodder Development.
vi) Veterinary Education.
vii) Livestock Census.
Under Animal Health and Disease Control, 1 State level Veterinary Hospital, 1 Zonal Hospital, 9 Polyclinics, 59 Sub-Divisional Veterinary Hospitals, 338 Veterinary Hospitals, 30 Central Veterinary Dispensaries and 1,772 Veterinary Dispensaries are in the State as on 31.12.2017. Besides this 6 Veterinary Check posts are also operating to provide immediate veterinary aid to the livestock. Under Mukhyamantri Arogya Pashudhan Yojna 1,251 veterinary dispensaries have been opened up to December,2017. 8.5 For improving the quality of sheep and wool, Government Sheep Breeding Farms at Jeori (Shimla), Sarol (Chamba), Tal (Hamirpur), and Karachham (Kinnaur) are supplying improved sheep to the breeders of the State.
One Ram centre at Nagwain in District Mandi is also functioning where improved Rams are reared and supplied to breeders for cross breeding. The flock strength of these farms are 1,815 during the year 2016-17 and 338 Rams were distributed to the breeders. In view of the increasing demand for pure Hoggets and the established popularity of the Soviet Marino and American Rambouillet in the Pradesh, the State has switched over to pure breeding at the existing Government farms in the State. 9 Sheep and wool Extension Centres continue functioning. During the year 2017-18, the wool production is likely to be of the order of 1,500 Tonne. Angora rabbit farms are functioning at Kandwari (Kangra) and Nagwain (Mandi) for distribution of rabbits to the breeders.
Dairy production is an integral part of the Animal Husbandry and forms part of the earning of small and marginal farmers in Himachal Pradesh. The recent trend towards the development of a market oriented economy emphasized the importance of milk production, especially in areas falling in the vicinity of urban consumption centres. This has motivated farmers to replace local nondescript breeds of cows with crossbreed cows. Upgradation of indigenous cattle is being carried out by cross breeding with Jersey and Holsten. In buffalo upgradation with Murral bull is being popularized. Artificial insemination with the latest technology of Deep Frozen Semen is being practised. During 2016-17, 12.94 lakh semen straws for cows and 3.01 lakh semen straws for buffaloes were produced by sperm station. During 2017-18, 11.50 lakh semen straws for cows and 3.00 lakh semen straws for buffaloes are likely to be produced.
During 2016-17, 4.40 lakh litre Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) gas was produced and 8.80 lakh litre is likely to be produced in 2017-18. During 2016-17, artificial Insemination facility is being provided through 3,086 institutions to 7.65 lakh cows and 2.35 lakh buffaloes and 9.16 lakh cows and 2.47 lakh buffaloes are likely to be inseminated during the year 2017-18. Cross breed cows are preferred because of factors such as longer lactation period, shorter dry period and higher yields.During 2017-18 the “Uttam Pashu Puraskar Yojna” will be implemented with the provision of `20.00 lakh and funds to the tune of `30.00 lakh have been provided for the organisation of “Animal Mandis at Districts and Block level.
During 2017-18 under the Backyard Poultry Scheme 3.90 lakh dual purpose coloured strains chicks are likely to be distributed and 720 persons are targeted to impart training in poultry farming 3.10 lakh chicks were distributed among the 7,599 beneficiaries under this Scheme in subsidy till December, 2017. A part from above a new project” Establishment of 5,000 Broiler Farm” has been launched in the State with the budget provision of `2.00 crore to target 36 beneficiaries with 60 percent subsidies on capital and recurring cost during 2017-18.
One horse breeding farm at Lari in Lahaul and Spiti district has been established with the objective to preserve Spiti breed of horses. During the year 2017-18 (up to 31st December, 2017) 66 horses have kept in this farm. One Yak breeding farm has been also established in the premises of horse breeding Lari. During the year 2017-18 (up to 31st December,2017) the strength of yaks was 51 in this farm. Under feed and fodder development scheme, 15.02 lakh fodder roots, 0.68 lakh fodder plants to be distributed during 2017-18.

Doodh Ganga Yojna: Doodh Ganga Scheme has been launched in collaboration with NABARD in the State since 25th September,2009. The Components of the scheme include:
1) Establishment of small dairy units (units size comprise of 2-10 milch animals) Bank Loan of `6.00 lakh for purchase of 10 animals.
2) Bank Loan to the tune of `20.00 lakh for purchase of milking machine/ bulk milk cooling units,
3) Purchase of dairy processing equipments for manufacture of indigenous milk products, Bank Loan to the tune of `13.20 lakh.
4) Establishment of dairy products transportation facilities and cold chain bank loan of `26.50 lakh.
5) Cold storage facilities of milk products bank loan of `33.00 lakh.
6) Dairy, marketing outlet/ Dairy parlour Bank Loan of `1.00 lakh.
Pattern of Assistance:
i) Bank ended capital subsidy @ 25 percent of the project cost for general category and 33.33 percent for farmers of SC/ ST category.
ii) Entrepreneur contribution (Margin - Money) for the loans beyond `1.00 lakh will be 10 percent of the project cost.
National Project on Bovine Breeding: 23.87 crore National Project on Bovine breeding has been sanctioned by Government of India on 100 percent Central Assistance pattern and `5.71 crore were released, out of which `4.53 crore has been utilized for the year 2015-16. This project aims at strengthening of following activities of Animal Husbandry Department.
1) Strengthening of Liquid Nitrogen Storage, transport and distribution.
2) Strengthening of Sperm Stations, Semen Banks and A.I. Centres.
3) Acquisition of high pedigree bulls or Sperm Stations and for Natural Service in remote areas.
4) Strengthening of training facilities.
5) Strengthening of E.T.T. Lab (Embryo Transfer Technology).
6) Development and conservation of Indiginous Breed.
Backyard Poultry Farming: To develop poultry sector in Himachal Pradesh, department is running following poultry development schemes especially in rural areas of the State. Under Backyard Poultry Project, 4 week old chicks of coloured Strain variety i.e. Chabro are supplied to the farmers of the State and one unit consists of 40-100 chicks. These chicks are produced at the two hatcheries i.e. Nahan and Sundernagar.
Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Rashtriya Gokul Mission is being implemented with the objective of:-
1) Development and conservation of indigenous breed.
2) Breed improvement programme for indigenous cattle breeds to improve their genetic makeup and increase the stock.
3) Enhancement of milk production and productivity.
4) Up-gradation of nondescript cattle using elite indigenous breeds like, Sahiwal and Red Sindhi.
5) Distribution of disease free high genetic merit bulls for natural service.
6) Funding of RGM under 100 percent grant-in- aid schemes.
National Livestock Mission (NLM): National Livestock Mission (NLM) IS A centrally sponsored scheme launched w.e.f. year 2014-15. Department of Animal Husbandry is the Nodal Department for implementation of proposals under NLM. The mission is designed to cover all the activities required to ensure quantitative and qualitative improvement in livestock production systems and capacity building of all stakeholders. Activities related to development of Small Ruminants i.e. Sheep and Goat, Fodder Development, Risk Management and Poultry Development are included in the scheme. State share is different for different components under this scheme. The Mission is formulated with the objective of sustainable development of livestock sector, focusing on improving availability of quality feed and fodder.
Assistance to State for Control of Animal Diseases: Due to large scale interstate migration from adjoining states and lack of nutrition grasses and fodder due to hilly topography most of animals are prone to various livestock diseases. Central Government has provided assistance to State Government for control of contagious diseases under ASCAD which is on the pattern of 90 percent Central share and 10 percent State share.Diseases for which free vaccination is being provided to livestock owners are FMD, HSBQ, Enterotoxaemia, PPR, Raniket Disease, Marek‟s disease and Rabies under this project.
Shepherd Scheme: The local sheep is being crossed with good quality Rams of Rambouillet and Russian meriono so that the quality as well as quantity of wool production can be increased. Hence it is being proposed these Rams to the sheep breeders at 60 percent subsidy. A target of providing 800 Rams has been fixed for the year 2017-18.
BPL Krishak Bakri Palan Yojna: under this scheme it has been proposed to distribute units of 11 Goats (10 female+1 male), 5 Goats (4 female + 1 male) and 3 Goats (2 female + 1 male) of Beetls Sirohi/ Jamnapari/ white Himalayan breeds on 60 percent subsidy to landless, BPL category farmers to increase their income.

H.P. Milkfed is implementing dairy development activities in the State. The H.P. Milkfed has 965 milk producers Co-operative Societies. The total membership of these societies is 42,350 out of which 203 woman dairy co-operatives are also functioning. The surplus milk from the milk producers is collected by village dairy co-operative societies, processed and marketed by H.P. Milkfed. At present the Milkfed is running 23 milk chilling centres having a total capacity of 96,500 litres milk per day and 10 milk processing plants having a total capacity of 95,000 litres milk per day.
One milk powder plant of 5 metric tonne per day at Duttnagar in Shimla District and one cattle feed plant of 16 metric tonne per day capacity at Bhor in District Hamirpur has been established and functioning. The average milk procurement is about 63,500 litres per day from the villages through village dairy co-operatives. The H.P. Milkfed is marketing approximately 27,397 litres of milk per day which includes milk supply to various prestigious dairies in bulk and supply to army units in Dagshai, Shimla, Palampur and Yol areas. The milk collected to milk chilling centres is transported to milk processing plants where it is processed, packed (Him brand) and marketed in sachets as well as in loose containers.
H.P. Milkfed provides technical know-how, awareness activities in field of Dairy by organizing seminars, camps in rural areas. Besides this other inputs like cattle feed and clean milk production activities are provided to the farmers at their door steps. Himachal Pradesh Government has increased milk procurement rates by `1.00 per litre w.e.f. 01.04.2017 thus giving direct financial benefits to 42,350 families associated with the Milk Federation. Developmental efforts 8.17 In order to utilize surplus milk and increase its revenue and to bring down its losses H.P. Milkfed has initiated the following developmental activities:-
1) Processing Plants of capacity 5,000 litres per day is being set up at Recong Peo, district Kinnaur, Nalagarh, district Solan and Jangal Beri, district Hamirpur.
2) A new Mineral Mixture Plant and Urea Molasses Plant are being set up at Bhor, Tehsil Bhoranj, district Hamirpur.
3) A new Compressed Fodder Plant is being set up at Bilaspur.
4) Three Cattle Feed godown has been set up at distirict Bilaspur Una and Nadaun, District Hamirpur.
5) H.P.Milkfed has set up a new Bakery Biscuit Plant of 2.5-3.0 metric tonne per day capacity at Totu in Milkfed Premises.
6) Provide self as well as direct employment opportunities through village Dairy Co-operatives.

Himachal Pradesh Milkfed is manufacturing Panjiri at „Panjiri Manufacturing Plant‟ Chakkar (Mandi) to cater the need of the Welfare Department under ICDS project, 38,049.52 quintal of „Nutrimix has been supplied During 2016-17. Himachal Pradesh Milkfed has also supplied 5,638.61 quintals of Skimmed Milk Powder (SMP) and 5,497.00 quintals of Bakery Biscuit to ICDS, SABLA Block through Women and Child Welfare Department.
1) The H.P. Milk Federation organize training programme to milk producers at village level for educating them to produce good quality of milk.
2) H.P. Milkfed has also diversified its activities by manufacturing sweets during Deepawali festival and sold 300 quintals of 2017-18.
3) H.P. Milkfed is providing refreshment kit to Blood donors at IGMC Shimla. Achievement of H.P. Milkfed are shown in Table 8.2
The H.P. Milk Federation not only provides a remunerative market to the milk producers living in remote and far-flung areas but also makes available milk and milk products to the consumers in urban areas at a competitive prices. In order to ensure that milk is instantaneously chilled at village level, H.P. Milkfed has installed 104 Bulk Milk Coolers at village level in various parts of the State. To bring transparency and automation in the testing of milk at village level, H.P. Milkfed has installed 227 Automatic Milk Collection Units in different Village Dairy Co-operative societies.

The main objective of the Federation is to promote the growth and development of wool industry in the State of Himachal Pradesh and to free wool growers from exploitation by the middleman/traders. In pursuance to the above objective, the Federation is actively involved in procurement of sheep and angora wool, sheep shearing at pasture level, sheep wool scouring and marketing of wool. Sheep shearing is done with the imported automatic machines. During the year 2017-18 (upto 31.12.2017) the sheep wool procurement was 99,837 Kg. and the value of the same was `56.64 lakh. The Federation is also implementing a few Centrally Sponsored Schemes for the benefit and upliftment of sheep and angora breeders in the State. During current financial year the benefits of these schemes is likely to perculate to approximately 15,000 breeders. The Federation is also providing remunerative prices to the wool growers for their produce by selling the wool in the established markets.

Himachal Pradesh is one of the States amongst a few in the union of India which has been gifted by mother nature with rivers emanating from glaciers which traverse through hilly terrains and finally enrich the semiplain area of the state with their oxygen rich water. Its linearly flowing rivers Beas, Satluj and Ravi receive many streams during their downward journey and harbour the precious cold water fish fauna such as Schizothorax, Golden Mahseer and exotic Trouts.
Cold water resources of the state have shown their potential with the successful completion of ambitious Indo-Norwegian Trout farming Project and tremendous interest shown by the hill populace for the adoption of evolved technology. The commercially important fish species in Gobind Sagar and Pong Dam reservoirs, Chamera and Ranjeet Sagar Dam have become a tool for the upliftment of local population. About 6,098 fishermen in the State depend directly on reservoir fisheries for their livelihood. During 2017-18 (up to December,2017) cumulative fish production was 6,980.96 metric tonne valued at `8,904.56 lakh.
The reservoir of Himachal Pradesh has the distinction of highest per hectare fish production in Govind Sagar and highest sale price value of fish catch in Pong Dam in the country. During current year (upto December,2017), 7.65 tonne trout has been sold from the state farms and earning revenue to the tune of `97.82 lakh. Last few years sale of fish is shown in Table 8.3
The Department of Fisheries has constructed carp as well as trout seed production farms in the state to cater the requirement of reservoirs rural Ponds and commercial farms in public as well as private sector. The value of Carp Farm seed production is `287.80 lakh in 2016-17. In June 2017, it has been decided by the Government of India that fingerlings size 70 mm and above should be stocked and sold for future.
This way the value of seed(fingerlings) produced during 2017-18 (up to December,2017) is `19.94 lakh. Despite hilly terrain of the State aquaculture is being given due importance. Under “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojna” (RKVY ) an outlay of `300.30 lakh has been approved by Government with the breakup as shown in Table 8.4
The Department of Fisheries has initiated many welfare schemes for the upliftment of fishermen. Fishermen now are covered under insurance scheme where `2.00 lakh is given (in case of death/ permanent disability) or `1.00 lakh (in case of parital disability) and `10,000 towards hospital expenses and even losses to their gear and crafts are being born by the State Government to the extent of 50 percent under “Risk Fund Scheme”. A contributory saving scheme has been initiated by the State Government under this scheme double matching share of fisherman‟s contribution is born by the Centre and State Government in the ratio of 80:20 during the season.
Department of Fisheries is earnestly contributing in the strengthening of rural economy and generation of employment opportunities to the unemployed youth and various schemes in this direction have been initiated. A total number of 467 self employment opportunities were generated by the department under various schemes. Under Blue Revolution department has envisaged construction of 1,000 hectare new ponds and 1,000 trout units in the State by 2020. Central Sector Scheme of Blue Revolution is being shared in 90:10 between Central and State Government. Under this scheme during 2017-18
1) Construction of 72 trout unit‟s inputs.
2) Construction of new ponds and renovation of old ponds inputs.
3) Seed stoking in State reservoir.
4) Close season Relief Funds.
5) Establishment of Community Canning Centre for production of ready to eat smoked trout at Patlikuhal in Kullu. In order to meet the expenditure of the above a provision of `700.00 lakh has being proposed in Annual Plan 2017-18
During 2017-18, 13 hectare new area in the shape of rearing ponds has been proposed under blue revolution scheme in the existing carp hatcheries of the State with the cost of `36.00 lakh so that fry could be stocked in these ponds to develop them to the stage of fingerlings of the size 70 mm and above. A part from this `9.51 lakh has been sanctioned for utilization as input cost (feed manure etc.) to meet the carp seed requirement of farmer in una area. A new carp hatchery with an expenditure of `15.00 lakh is being constructed in Pvt. Sector in Una district. In order to meet the brooder requirement of farmer, 0.57 hectare brooder pond with an expenditure of `2.39 lakh is being established in Pvt. Sector in Una district.
For the integrated development of Trout culture in Himachal Pradesh, 15 Trout hatcheries are being established in private sector in Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, Shimla and Sirmaur districts by providing financial assistance of `277.20 lakh during the year 2017-18.
A community canning centre for the production of ready to eat smoked trout is being established in Kullu, at Patlikuhal with an expenditure of `85.00 lakh. During 2017-18, 72 new trout units with the expenditure of `71.60 lakh are being constructed in Kullu, Chamba, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur Districts. A part from this `89.50 lakh has been sanctioned for the utilization as input cost (feed manure etc) for these trout units.
For the development of aquaculture in Himachal Pradesh, 7 Solar Power System are being established in Departmental Carp farms in Kullu, Chamba, Mandi, Shimla and Sirmaur districts with an expenditure of `105.00 lakh during the year 2017-18.
Achievements of the department during the financial 2017-18, (upto December, 2017) and proposed targets for 2018-19 are shown in Table 8.5

Forests in Himachal Pradesh cover an area of 37,033 Sq. Km. and account for 66.52 percent of total geographical area of the state. However, presently 26.4 percent of the total geographical area of the State supports Forest cover. Besides proper management, conservation and rationalized utilization of forests, the State has a declared vision of enhancing the forest cover in the State from the present about 26.4 percent of its geographical area to 30 percent of its geographical area by 2030 to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The plan programme taken up by the Forest Department aims at fulfilling these policy commitments. Some of the important plan programme activities are as under:-

Forest plantation is being carried out under various State plan schemes such as Improvement of tree cover, and soil conservation, CAMPA as well as Centrally Sponsored Scheme National Afforestation Programme. Pasture and Grazing lands of the state are being managed under state scheme Development of Pasture and Grazing lands. Van Mahotsava at State, Circle and Division levels is also celebrated for educating the masses and creating awareness amongst all stakeholders regarding forestry and environmental concerns under New Forestry Scheme (Sanjhi Van Yojana).
Another scheme namely “Smriti Van Yojana” is also being implemented with the vision to create awareness amongst the people about tree planting. The scheme envisages tree plantation by people in specially designated areas on the occasion of their birthday, marriage anniversary or on death anniversary of their parents/ relatives/ elders.
For the year 2017-18, plantation target of 9,725 Hectares Including CAMPA and Centrally Sponsored Schemes has been fixed with a cost of `47.00 crore out of which 6,776 hectares target and expenditure of `39.78 crore has been achieved upto 31.12.2017.

Forests in the State are subject to increasing biotic pressure due to increase in human populations, changing animal husbandry practices, and developmental activities. Forests are exposed to perils of fire, illicit felling, encroachments and other forest offences. Forest Protection is being strengthened by equipping check posts at sensitive places with CCTVs to ensure electronic surveillance to curb forest offences. Fire fighting equipment and improved techniques are also being introduced and made available to all the forest divisions where fire is a major destructive element. Communication network for effective management and protection of forest wealth is very important. Keeping these factors in view, Intensification of Forest Management Scheme is being implemented with Central Assistance.
An outlay of `401.95 lakh has been approved in the State Budget for the current financial year 2017-18 but the Central Government has released only `105.00 lakh under this scheme till December, 2017 due to the reason that the Central Government is in the process of revising the scheme. Expenditure of `58.60 lakh has been incurred upto 31.12.2017. An outlay of `414.00 lakh has been proposed for next financial year under Centrally Sponsored Scheme and `100.00 lakh has been proposed under State Plan for proper protection and management of forests in the state.
Nagar Van Udyan Yojana - “Ek Kadam Hariyali Ki Or” - A Programme for Climate Smart Green Cities : The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has introduced a new scheme namely Nagar Van Udyan Yojana - “Ek Kadam Hariyali Ki Or” - a Programme for Climate Smart Green Cities. The vision of this scheme is to create at least one City Forest in each city having Municipal Corporation for providing wholesome, healthy living environment and contributing to growth of Smart, Clean, Green, Sustainable and Healthy Cities.
Under this scheme 80 percent funds are to be provided by the National CAMPA Advisory Council (NCAC) and 20 percent by the State Government One such project under this scheme has been approved by the Government for Shimla City during 2016-17 for a total cost of `2.00 crore with state share of `40.00 lakh. The state Government has provided `20.00 lakh towards its share during the year 2017-18 and provision of balance `20.00 lakh has been kept for the year 2018-19.

Mid-Himalayan Watershed Development Project: Himachal Pradesh MidHimalayan Watershed Development Project became operative in 10 districts of Himachal Pradesh w.e.f. 1st October, 2005 with the financial assistance from the World Bank for the period of 6 years with sharing pattern in ratio 80:20. The project, with field activities culminated w.e.f. 31 March 2017, aimed to reversing the process of degradation of the natural resource base and improve the productive potential of natural resources and income of rural households in the project. Funds amounting to `7.70 crore have been provided during the year 2017-18 for withdrawal/ winding up of this project.
Himachal Pradesh Forest Ecosystems Climate Proofing Project (K.F.W assisted): Himachal Pradesh Forest Ecosystems Climate Proofing Project with the assistance of Germany (KfW) Project is being implemented in Chamba and Kangra districts of the State for the period of 7 years w.e.f. 2015-16. The cost of the project is `308.45 crore. The Funding pattern of the project is 85.10 percent loan and 14.90 percent State share. The main objective of this project is the rehabilitation, protection and sustainable use of the selected forest ecosystems in Himachal Pradesh to increase and secure the resilience of forest ecosystems against climate change and ensure flow of forest based products and other services, which benefit the forest dependent communities.
In the long run this will contribute in strengthening the adaptation capacity of forest ecosystems to climate change, protection of biodiversity, stabilization of catchment areas, conservation of natural resource base and at the same time result in better livelihoods for the people of Himachal Pradesh An outlay of `60.00 crores has been approved for the current financial year 2017-18 and expenditure upto 31.12.2017 is `5.76 crore.
Himachal Pradesh Forest Ecosystems Management and Livelihood Improvement Project: A new Project namely “Himachal Pradesh Forest Ecosystems Management and Livelihood Improvement Project” for 8 years (2018-19 to 2025-26) amounting to `800.00 crore is under negotiation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (J.I.C.A.). The Funding pattern of the project is 80 percent loan and 20 percent State share. The project will be implemented in Bilaspur, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti districts and tribal areas of Pangi and Bharmour Sub-divisions of Chamba districts with Project headquarter at Kullu (Shamshi) district Kullu and Regional office at Rampur, district Shimla. The objectives of the project are to conserve the forest and mountain ecosystem and improve livelihood of the forest and pasture dependent communities by increasing forest cover, density and productive potential using scientific and modern forest management practices; enhancing biodiversity and forest ecosystem conservation and to reduce pressure/ stress on forest resources by providing the village communities with alternative livelihood opportunity. During the financial year 2017-18, the Government has provided `1.00 crore for preparatory phase of this project and expenditure of `44.00 lakh has been incurred upto 31.12.2017.
World Bank Aided Himachal Pradesh Forests for Prosperity Project: A World Bank aided new project namely “Himachal Pradesh Forests for Prosperity Project” is also in the pipeline. The cost of the project is `665.00 crore. The funding pattern is 80 percent loan and 20 percent State share. The project would be implemented in Una, Kangra, Hamirpur, Solan, Kinnaur, Bilaspur, Shimla, Sirmaur, Pangi and Bharmour Sub- Divisions of District Chamba for a duration of 5 years with Project headquarter at Una and Regional offices at Dharamshala and Shimla. The objectives of the project are to increase the State Forest Cover/ improve its quality; increase the benefits that local community derives from forests and to promote Nature- based Tourism, sustainable hydropower and water supply. A budget provision of `4.12 crore has been made during the current financial year 2017-18. Expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is `32.00 lakh.
World Bank Aided Integrated Project for Source Sustainability and Climate Resilient Rain-fed Agriculture: The World Bank has also agreed to support another project at a cost of `650.00 crore titled „Integrated Project for Source Sustainability and Climate Resilient Rain-fed Agriculture‟. This project is under finalization and loan agreement signing date has been proposed for March 2018. The funding pattern of the project is 80 percent loan and 20 percent is State share. The project period is 7 years. The project would be implemented in 900 Gram Panchayats in Shiwalik and Mid Hills agro-climatic zones spread across various watershed in the state. The key objectives of this project include comprehensive treatment of around 2 lakh hectares non-arable and 20,000 hectares arable lands; and enhancement of water productivity/ efficiency Milk production and livelihood improvement in the project area. An outlay of `4.60 crore has been approved under this project during the current financial year 2017-18 out of which expenditure of `1.29 crore has been incurred up to 31.12.2017.
Environment Forestry and Wildlife: Himachal Pradesh is home to a very impressive, diverse and unique fauna– many of which are rare. The scheme aims at protection, improvement of environment and wildlife, development of wildlife sanctuaries/ national parks and improvement of wildlife habitat so as to provide protection to various species of birds and animals facing extinction. To protect, develop and scientifically mange the wildlife and to improve its habitat an outlay of `14.84 crore has been approved for the current financial year 2017-18 out of which expenditure of `5.03 crore has been incurred upto 31.12.2017 and balance amount will be booked upto 31.03.2018.

State Knowledge Cell on Climate Change: A State Knowledge Cell on Climate Change has been set up in the Department of Environment, Science and Technology, Himachal Pradesh with the assistance of Department of Environment, Science and Technology, Government of India under National Mission for Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystems. Total budget sanctioned for setting up and functioning of the Knowledge cell is `2.73 crores out of which only `1.00 crore has been released and utilized upto 31.12.2017 to carry out pre-defined activities. The Government of India has been requested to release the remaining budget to undertake further activities. Climate Change vulnerability assessment is being undertaken for Beas River Basin covering four districts viz. Kullu, Mandi, Hamirpur and Kangra. Report on one district i.e. Kullu will be completed by the end of March, 2018.
Implementation of Project sanctioned under NAFCC: A programme titled "Sustainable Livelihoods of Agriculture -Dependent Rural Communities" (S.L.A.D.R.C.) is being implemented in district Sirmaur, HIMACHAL PRADESH under National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India with the total financial outlay of `20.00 crore. This project is being implemented through National Implementing Agency NABARD in collaboration with Agriculture, Horticulture and IPH Departments. For this project `3.31 crore has been released and being utilized to carry out pre-defined activities. Climate Change vulnerability assessment report and climate change adaptation plan of three developmental blocks (Pachhad, Paonta Sahib and Sangrah) of district Sirmaur has been completed and the list of beneficiaries have been identified. Works of three lift irrigation schemes in three developmental blocks has been started through IPH department.12 micro irrigation schemes in three blocks out of total 73 completed through D.W.D.O (Divisional Watershed Development Officers) Nahan covering area of 23 hectares with 87 beneficiaries.
Introduction of State level Environment Leadership Awards: Himachal Pradesh Environment Leadership Awards has been started by the State Government to be conferred through Department of Environment, Science and Technology every year to various categories of institutions/ individuals of the State, who excel in promotion of environmental conservation and sustainable development by demonstrating successful initiatives. The award is to be given in the form of a citation along with cash prize of `50,000 as 1st Prize and `25,000 as total sanctioned budget of `9.50 lakh was utilized for organization of State level Environment Leadership Awards-2017.
Creation of Model Eco Villages- an Environmentally Sound Sustainable Community Development Programme in Himachal Pradesh.: Model Eco Village Scheme has been notified by the State Government to be implemented through the Department of Environment, Science and Technology. Through this initiative, the State Government intends to sketch the different components of environmental sustainability, which will go into such a designing and illustration as implemented examples. Environmentally sustainable and ecologically oriented eco villages shall be focused towards the perspective of developing low impact lifestyles as to reduce the “ecological footprint” by as much as 50 percent of the base assessment from launch of the scheme.
It will be based on the values of "care of the earth and of people". It will be ensured that how community is best integrated in nature by setting up a framework of various components- features with quantitative and qualitative social, economic and environmental benefits of implementing these features that can be used to help determine to what extent they are being incorporated in development plans. The benefits of implementing sustainable communities will be significant in both the short and long term. Under this scheme `50.00 lakh to be utilized over a period of 5 years by the identified village for adoption of Model Eco Village Scheme.

The State Government has decided to prepare State Environment Policy in order to bring synergy among various stakeholder departments and bring environmental coordination into mainstreaming of decision making in the State. This document will facilitate the process of determining priority actions in a sustainable manner with sound environmental governance in the State and Total Budget sanctioned for the purpose is `15.00 lakh for the year 2017-18.

The State Government has prepared and submitted two proposals through NABARD a National Implementing Agency under the Green Climate Fund.
i) Community based Water Harvesting and Natural Water Resource Management to be implemented through Irrigation and Public Health Department. `1,125.32 crore has been proposed.
ii) For Climate Resilient Forest Management in the State `492.00 crore has been proposed through Forest Department.
Formulation of Programmes to Reduce the Climate Change Vulnerability: The State Government through Department of Environment, Science and Technology will formulate a programme to be implemented in next five years to reduce the climate change vulnerability and improve the adaptive capacity of rural, small and marginal farmers including rural women in flood and drought prone district of the State. Three project proposals amounting to `57.75 crore have been submitted to the NABARD for funding under N.A.F.C.C. (National Adaptation Funds for Climate Change) of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.

Research and development Projects in Applied Biotechnology: In order to implement Biotechnology policy in the State research activities were conducted in collaboration with universities/ institutions. Research and Development proposals are being carried out in the field of applied biotechnology to establish available for users in the State with total sum of `16.97 lakh upto 31.12.2017.

Water management is an important issue. Provision of safe drinking water has been the priority of the State Government. All the census villages in the State have been provided with drinking water facilities by March, 1994. As per the latest updated/validated survey of drinking water supply schemes in Himachal Pradesh, all 45,367 habitations have been covered with safe drinking water facility by March, 2008. With the coming in force of National Rural Drinking Water Supply guidelines w.e.f. 01.04.2009 and subsequent realignment/ mapping of habitations, there are 53,205 habitations in the State, out of which 19,473 habitations (7,632 habitation with population coverage >0 and 100 and 11,841 habitations with 0 population coverage) are identified having inadequate drinking water. The criteria of coverage of habitations have been changed to population based coverage to ensure water security at household level. Status of habitations as on 01.04.2017 was finalized as under:- During the year 2017-18, against the target of covering 730 habitations in which 364 habitations under State sector and 366 habitations under Central sector with an outlay of `242.39 crore and `84.39 crore respectively, 438 habitations in which 436 habitations under Central sector and 2 habitations under State sector have been covered up to December, 2017. An expenditure of `44.23 crore, under Central sector and `101.24 crore under State sector have been incurred upto December, 2017.

The Government has an ongoing programme of providing hand pumps with focus on regions facing scarcity of water during summer season. Total 35,668 hand pumps have been installed up to March, 2017. During the year 2017-18, 1,233 hand pumps have been installed upto December, 2017.

Under drinking water scheme, the work of operation and maintenance of 50 towns of the state is looked after by the IPH Department. Augmentation work of 38 towns Water Supply Schemes have been completed upto March, 2017. Water Supply to Dharamshala, Kangra, Hamirpur, Sarkaghat, Nagrota Bagwan, Kullu, Mandi, Rampur, and Manali is in progress through UIDSSMT. Augmentation work of Water Supply Scheme of Nahan and Banjar town are in progress through State sector. During the year 2017-18 a budget provision of `21.50 crore has been kept for augmentation of water supply schemes, against which an expenditure of `10.33 crore has been incurred upto December, 2017.

To increase the crop production the importance of irrigation is well established. Adequate and timely supply of irrigation water to crops is the pre-requisite in the agriculture production process, particularly in areas where the rainfall is scanty and irregular. The supply of land is fixed, i.e. in elastic, therefore, the accelerated growth in production is possible through multiple cropping and realization of higher crop yield per unit area, which in turn depends upon irrigation. Creation of irrigation potential and its optimum utilization continues to receive a high priority in Government Planning.
Out of the total geographical area of 55.67 lakh hectare of Himachal Pradeh, only 5.83 lakh hectare is the net area sown. It is estimated that ultimate irrigation potential of the State is approximately 3.35 lakh hectare, out of this 0.50 lakh hectare can be brought out under irrigation through major and medium irrigation projects and balance 2.85 lakh hectare of area can be provided irrigation through minor irrigation schemes. Till date 2.71 lakh hectare land has been brought out under the irrigation facility upto December, 2017.
Major and Medium Irrigation: The only major irrigation project in the State is Shahnehar Project in Kangra District. The project has been completed and irrigation facility to 15,287 hectare land is provided. The Command Area Development work is in progress and out of 15,287 hectare, 9,612 hectare land has been brought under Command Area Development activities upto December,2017. Medium Irrigation Projects, Changer area Bilaspur 2,350 hectare, Sidhatha Kangra, 3,150 hectare and Balh Valley Left Bank 2,780 hectare has been completed. The work of CAD Sidhatha is in progress and 2,350 hectare land has been brought under CAD activities upto December,2017. At present work of Medium Irrigation Project Phinna Singh (CCA 4,025 hectare) and the Nadaun area in District Hamirpur (CCA 2,980 hectare) is in progress. During 2017-18, an amount of `6,000.00 lakh has been provided. There is a target of 1,200 hectare area under Major and Medium Irrigation.
Minor Irrigation: During the year 2017-18, there was a budget provision of `220.75 crore in the State sector to provide irrigation facilities to an area of 3,500 hectare against which upto December, 2017 an area of 1,999.21 hectare has been covered with an expenditure of `54.02 crore.

During the year 2017-18, a provision of `75.00 crore has been provided by the Government of Himachal Pradesh which includes `25.00 crore for CAD activities in completed minor irrigation schemes to bridge the gap of potential created and utilized and rest of amount is for major/medium irrigation and minor irrigation schemes ongoing in the State including Central share. There is a physical target of 2,500 hectare CCA for providing CAD activities, out of which 787.85 hectare (Shahnehar is 638.50 hectare and Sidhatha is 149.35 hectare) has been achieved up to December, 2017.
CAD to major irrigation Shahnehar and medium irrigation Sidhatha projects were included for funding under Command Area Development Water Management programme of Government of India. The Government of India has launched the ISBIG scheme for providing CAD activities in the completed/ongoing irrigation projects during 2016-17 and accordingly the 6 projects (Shahnehar major irrigation project, Sidhatha Changer, Nadaun Area, Ballah valley left bank medium irrigation projects, and 23 minor irrigation schemes) of CADWM have been considered for inclusion under the programme.

During the year 2017-18 a sum of `63.58 crore has been provided to protect 2,500 hectare of land. An amount of `10.98 crore upto December, 2017 has been spent to protect an area of 159.21 hectare. The work for Swan Phase-IV and Channelization of Chhochh Khad is in progress. the completed/ongoing irrigation projects during 2016-17 and accordingly the 6 projects (Shahnehar major irrigation project, Sidhatha Changer, Nadaun Area, Ballah valley left bank medium irrigation projects, and 23 minor irrigation schemes) of CADWM have been considered for inclusion under the programme.

Himachal Pradesh has made significant achievements in the field of industrialization in the past few years. Recently many initiatives have been taken by Government to facilitate investment in the State.

As on 31.12.2017, there were 45,597 units working in the State. Out of these 138 Industrial Units are Large and 484 are Medium Scale Units.
Development of Industrial Areas/ Estates: The budget amounting to `23.50 crore has been allocated for the year 2017-18 for infrastructure development of various Industrial Areas/ Estates. Out of allocated fund `9.52 crore have been booked for construction of various development works in Industrial Area/ Industrial Estates as on 18.01.2018. The balance budget of `13.98 crore will be spent before 31.03.2018.
State of the Art Industrial Area under MIIUS: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (DIPP), Government of India has accorded final approval for setting up of two State of Art Industrial Area at Pandoga District Una and Kandrori, District Kangra under Modified Industrial Infrastructure Upgradation Scheme (MIIUS). The detail of funding pattern of these projects is shown in the Table 11.1 The grant shall be utilized for the purpose of up gradation of infrastructure facilities at these industrial areas, under physical infrastructure (Roads and Storm Water Drainage, Streets Lights, augmentation of 132KV Power SubStation etc.), technical infrastructure (Common Facility Centre etc.), and Social infrastructure (Working Women Hostel, Bus Stops, Rain Shelter and Common Health Centre etc.) and for miscellaneous/ administrative grant. During the financial year 2017-18 an amount of `49.85 crore has been allocated under creation of state Art Industrial Areas and Integrated Infrastructure Upgradation scheme out of which `44.44 crore has been booked.
Prime Minister‟s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Under this scheme as on 31.01.2018 against the target of 900 cases, 2,627 cases have been sponsored to various banks, out of which 821 cases involving Margin Money subsidy `1,991.13 lakh, have been sanctioned. In 450 cases, an amount of `1,048.57 lakh of Margin Money (subsidy) has been disbursed.

Sericulture is one of the important agro-based rural cottage industries of the Pradesh that is providing gainful employment to about 10,228 rural families for supplementing their income by producing silk cocoons. 14 silk yarn reeling units have been set up in private sector i.e. district Kangra and Bilaspur five each, in Hamirpur, Mandi, Una and Sirmaur one each with the assistance of Government. Upto 31st December, 2017, 240.82 MT Silk Cocoons were produced that was converted into raw silk of 32.11 MT providing an income of about `722.46 lakh by sale of silk products in the State.

Under Tribal Sub Plan, a sanction case of `1.07 crore and under SCSP a sanction case of `1.00 crore has been sent to the State Government for sanction of 53 training centers by H.P. State Handloom and Handicraft Development Corporation.

Minerals constitute a fundamental component of State‟s economic base. Good quality limestone, which is one of the ingredients in the manufacture of cement, is available in plenty in the State. Six Cement Plants M/s ACC Ltd. at Barmana, District Bilaspur (two units), M/s Ambuja Cements Ltd. at Kashlog District Solan (two units), M/s Ultratech Cement (earliar J.P. Himachal Cement) at Baga Bhalag (one unit) and M/s CCI at Rajban District Sirmaur (one unit) are already in operation. The establishment of other cement plants are under process in parts of District Mandi, Shimla and Chamba.
In addition to above, the Government has also granted prospecting licences to the various companies in order to carry out the detailed study for proving the deposits, quantity and quality of Limestone and other associated minerals. Other commercially exploitable minerals in the State are Shale, Barytes, Silica Sand, Rock Salt, Quartzite, Building material like sand stone, sand, bajri and building stone. Apart from carrying out development and regulation of Mines and Minerals, the Geological Wing, Department of Industries is also conducting Geo-technical investigations of bridge sites, buildings and geo-environmental etc.
During the year 2015-16, `155.00 crore revenue was received and in the financial year 2016-17 `176.22 crore of royalty from minerals have been received. In the current financial year 2017-18, up to 31.12.2017 `363.29 crore revenue have been received which includes `194.00 crore paid by M/s Ultratech Cements Ltd. as an upfront payment.
i) New Leases granted: During 2015-16, 30 numbers of mining leases under major mineral have been granted/ renewed and during 2016-17 extension in 30 numbers of mining leases of major minerals in terms of provisions of Section 8A (5) and 8A (6) of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015, has been made for a period of 50 years from the date of grant. Further during 2015-16, 68 numbers of mining leases under minor minerals have been granted and during 2016-17, 92 numbers of mining leases have been granted. During current financial year 2017-18 upto 31.12.2017, 56 number of minor minerals mining leases have been granted.
ii) Geo Technical Investigations: During 2015-16, 23 numbers of Geo-Technical reports pertaining to foundation testing of bridge sites, geological evaluations of road alignments, landslides etc. were sent to user agencies for further action and during 2016-17 20 numbers of Geo-Technical reports have been sent to the user agencies. During the current financial 2017-18 upto 31.12.2017. 7 number of geo-technical report have been sent to the user agencies.

As per 2011 Census, 30.05 percent of the total population of the Pradesh is classified as main workers, 21.80 percent marginal workers and the rest 48.15 percent as non-workers out of the total workers (main+marginal) 57.93 percent are cultivators and 4.92 percent agricultural labourers, 1.65 percent are engaged in household industry and 35.50 percent in other activities. The employment assistance/ information service to job seekers in the Pradesh is rendered through the 3 Regional Employment Exchanges, 9 District Employment Exchanges, 2 University Employment Information and Guidance Bureaus, 62 SubEmployment Exchanges, 1 Special Employment Exchange for Physically Handicapped, 1 Central Employment Cell, Vocational Guidance and Employment Counseling to the youth as well as in the matter of collection of Employment Market Information Centre are working in the State. All 74 Employment Exchanges have been computerized and 71 Employment Exchanges are online. Efforts are on to bring remaining 3 Employment Exchanges Online.

Himachal Pradesh Government has constituted a Minimum Wages Advisory Board under the Minimum Wages Act-1948 for the purpose of advising the State Government in the matter of fixing and revising the minimum rates of wages for the workers. The State Government has enhanced the minimum wages for unskilled category of workers from `200 to `210 per day or `6,000 to `6,300 per month w.e.f. 1.04.2017, working in all existing 19 scheduled employments under the provision of Minimum Wages Act, 1948.

At the district level, the employment data is being collected under the Employment Market Information Programme since 1960. The total employment in the State as on 30.6.2016 in Public Sector was 2,82,464 and in Private sector was 1,62,686 where number of establishment in public sectors were 4,236 and in private sector 1,720.

There are total four vocational Guidance centres under Labour and Employment Department out of which one vocational guidance centre at the Directorate and other three are located at Regional Employment Office viz Mandi, Shimla and Dharamshala. Besides this, there are two University Employment Information and Guidance Bureau at Palampur and Shimla. These Vocational Guidance Centres impart vocational guidance to needy applicants. Vocational guidance camps are also organized in many educational Institutions of the State. 121 camps were organized in the different parts of the state during the Financial Year up to December,2017

With a view to provide technical and highly skilled manpower to all the industrial units, institutions and establishments, the Central Employment Cell which has been set up in the Directorate of Labour and Employment of the State remained engaged in rendering its services during the year 2017-18. Under this scheme, assistance is provided to the employment seekers on the one hand in finding suitable jobs in private sector according to their qualifications and on the other hand for to recruit suitable workers without wastage of money, material and time. The Central Employment Cell organizes Campus Interview for Private Sector Employers to not requirement of unskilled labour.
During the Financial Year up to December,2017. Central Employment Cell has organized 117 Campus Interviews wherein 1,868 candidates have been placed. The Central Employment Cell also organizes Job Fairs in the State. During the Financial Year up to December,2017. Two Job Fairs have been organized by the department where in 1,093 candidates were placed in employment in different Industries in the State.

The special employment exchange for the placement of physically disabled persons was set up in the Directorate of Labour and Employment during the year,1976. This special exchange renders assistance to the special abled candidates in the field of vocational guidance and also provides employment assistance in Public and Private Sector. The special abled persons who constitute the weaker section of society have been provided number of facilities/ concession which include free of cost medical examination of the disabled persons through the Medical Boards constituted at the State and District level, relaxation of age by 5 years, exemption for qualifying typing test for those who suffer from disability in the upper limbs extremities, 3 percent reservation for appointment in Class-III and Class-IV posts, reservation of 5 percent seats in girls Industrial Training Institute and Tailoring Centres and providing reservation against the specific points, in departmental 200 points Rosters i.e. 1st, 30th, 73rd, 101st, 130th, 173rd (1st and 101st for Visually special abled and 30th and 130th for Hearing special abled and 73rd and 173rd for Locomotor disabled). During the Financial Year 2017-18 upto December,2017, 1,966 special abled persons were brought on the Live Register of the Special Employment Exchange bringing the total number to 17,479 and 31 physically disabled persons were placed in employment.

Under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 the District Vigilance Committees and Sub Division Vigilance Committees have been constituted to monitor and ensure the implementation of Bonded Labour System. A State Level Standing Committee on the report of Expert Group on Bonded Labour System and other related Acts in the State has been constituted. The State Government has established two Labour Courts-cum-Industrial Tribunals, one with headquarter at Shimla with its jurisdiction of District Shimla, Kinnaur, Solan and Sirmaur and the other at Dharamshala with its jurisdiction of District Kangra, Chamba, Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Mandi, Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti. The Presiding Officers of Labour Courts-cumIndustrial Tribunals of the rank of District and Session Judges have been appointed for each Labour Courts- cum-Industrial Tribunals.

The Employees State Insurance is applicable in the areas of 85 Solan, Parwanoo, Barotiwala, Nalagarh, Baddi in Solan District, Mehatpur, Bathri and Gagret in Una District, Poanta Sahib and Kala Amb in Sirmaur District, Golthai in Bliaspur District, Mandi, Ratti, Ner Chowk, Bhangrotu, Chakkar and Gutkar in Mandi District and Industrial Area Shoghi and Municipal area of Shimla in District Shimla. About 7,495 establishments with an estimated 2,86,390 insured persons are covered under ESI Scheme in Himachal Pradesh upto 31.12.2017. Under employees provident fund scheme about 2,95,048 (provisional) workers have been brought in 15,425 establishments up to 31.12.2017.

The problem of Industrial Relations has gained considerable importance on account of expansion of industrial activities in the Pradesh. Conciliation machinery has been functioning in the Pradesh and has proved as an important agency for the settlement of industrial disputes and maintaining industrial peace and harmony. Function of Conciliation Officer has been entrusted to the Joint Labour Commissioner, Deputy Labour Commissioner, Labour Officers and Labour Inspectors in the field within their respective jurisdiction. Higher authorities from Directorate level intervene in the cases/disputes where the conciliation fails to bring about any amicable settlement at lower level.

Other Construction Workers Welfare Board has been constituted under this Act and the Board is implementing welfare schemes for the building and other construction workers registered as beneficiaries with the Board such as; Maternity/ Paternity Benefits, Special Abled Pension, Retirement Pension, Family Pension, Medical Assistance, Financial Assistance for education, Financial Assistance for marriage of self and upto two children, Skill Development Allowance. Loan for purchase of tools and purchase/ construction of house, death Benefits and Funeral Assistance.
The Board may construct/hire building for transit hostels for Building and Other Construction Workers wherein the number is more than 300. Recently the Board has constructed Worker Transit Hostel at Dulehad District Una and Ghansot (Nalagarh) District Solan. Apart from this Skill Development Tarining Institute is being constructed at Palkwah-Khas, District Una with the estimated cost of `15.69 crore.
The Board has also covered Building and Other Construction Workers under Rashtriya Swashtya Bima Yojna. 1,938 Establishments, 1,29,599 beneficiaries are registered with the Board and 1,53,028 beneficiaries have been provided benefits amounting to `71.27 crore under the various welfare scheme and an amount of `394.38 crore approximately has been deposited as cess with the H.P. Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, Shimla upto 31.12.2017.

During this Financial Year 2017-18, budgetary provision of `100.00 crore has been made under Skill Development Allowance Scheme. Under this scheme there is provision of to the eligible un-employed youth of the State for their Skill Up gradation and increasing their employability. This Allowance is payable `1,000 per month and for 50 percent or more permanent physically challenged `1,500 per month for duration of skill Development Training, subject to maximum period of two years.

During this financial year upto December,2017 in all 1,74,980 applicants were registered and 721 placement were done in Government sector against notified vacancies 2,185 and 4,850 placed in private sector against notified vacancies 7,035. The consolidated number on Live Registers of all are employment exchanges as on 31.12.2017 are 8,34,714. The District-wise registration and placements done by the employment exchanges with effect from 1.04.2017 to 31.12.2017 is given in Table 12.1 below:

Hydro power development is the key engine to the economic growth of the State of Himachal Pradesh, as it makes a direct and significant contribution to economy in terms of revenue generation, employment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life. The Hydro Power Sector in Himachal Pradesh strongly emphasizes the economic dimensions by way of environmentally and socially sustainable Hydropower Development in the State in line with the objective of Government of Himachal Pradesh to promote inclusive green growth and sustainable development of the State through climate change related with transformative actions across the key engines of economic growth of the State.
The State of Himachal Pradesh has an estimated Hydro Potential of 27,436 MW out of which 24,000 MW has been assessed as harnessable while the Government of Himachal Pradesh has decided to forgo balance potential in lieu of safe guarding the environment and to maintain ecological as well as protect various social concerns. Out of the total harnessable potential of about 24,000 MW, a potential to the tune of 20,912 MW already stands allotted under various sectors. The State has been accelerating the pace of Hydropower development through the active involvement of both the public and private sectors. A potential of about 10,519 MW has already been harnessed so far under various sectors.
Directorate of Energy‟s Physical and Financial achievements made during financial year 2017-18 (upto December 2017) and anticipated upto 31-03-2018: A capacity addition of 149.50 MW has been achieved during the current financial year 2017-18 till December, 2017 by commissioning three projects namely Sainj HEP (100 MW), Chaiju-I HEP (36 MW) and Upper Nanti HEP (13.5 MW) and a project of HEP 9 MW potential is likely to added upto March,2018 from Balargha. The upward trend In the rate of power has been experienced in the power trading market during the financial year. A revenue to the tune of `972.00 crore has been realized against the target of `620.00 crore (approx) and anticipated revenue for the remaining period i.e. upto March 2018 is likely to be realized to the tune of ` 68.00 crore approx on account of Sale of Free and Equity Power. Under Post Commissioning Local Area Development Fund (LADF), an amount of `13.22 crore has been realised out of sale of one percent additional free power received from various Hydro Power Projects on account of LADF and the same has been transferred to the concerned LADC‟s for further disbursement to the project affected families.
The Directorate of Energy, being mandated to grant Technical Concurrence (TC) to the Projects involving of the Project cost not exceeding `1,000.00 crore, has accorded the Technical Concurrence to 14 number of projects after carrying out detailed examination of the Detailed Project Reports submitted by various Private, State and Central Sector developing agencies implementing Hydro Power Projects in the State, during current financial year 2017-18 till December,2017. Three numbers of TC will be accorded within the balance period upto March,2018.

Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Departmental Schemes: i) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojna (DDUGJY): The Ministry of Power, Government of India launched Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojna (DDUGJY) on 3rd December, 2014 for the electrification of rural households, Separation of agriculture and non-agriculture feeders, Strengthening and augmentation of Sub-Transmission and Distribution (ST & D) infrastructure in rural areas, including metering at distribution transformers, feeders and consumers end. The core objective is to ensure reliable and quality power supply in rural areas. HPSEBL formulated twelve schemes for all districts of Himachal Pradesh covering 35 numbers un-electrified villages, one SAGY (Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojna) village and 14,088 rural households (including 3,288 BPL households) and Central Level Monitoring Committee had approved ` 158.31 crore for the same. The revised Letters of Intent (LoI) in respect of five Districts namely Shimla, Solan, Kangra, Mandi and Kullu (being executed on full turnkey mode) have been issued to the Contractor by HPSEBL on 30.12.2017. The works of remaining districts namely Chamba, Sirmaur, Kinnaur, Una, Hamirpur and Bilaspur are being executed on Departmental basis by way of self-procurement of Major Material and procurement of petty material through the Contractor to whom Erection Contract Awards shall be placed. However, in case of Lahaul and Spiti, the work under DDUGJY scheme is being implemented purely on the Departmental basis.
Completion Target: As per the guidelines, the scheme has to be completed in 30 months (i.e. 6 months for tendering and 24 months for implementation) from the date of sanction conveyed by M/s REC Ltd. Electrification Status of Un-Electrified Villages: Since, the Government of India decided to electrify the Un-electrified Villages on Mission mode, HPSEBL had decided to electrify 28 numbers inhabited un-electrified villages on departmental basis covered under DDUGJY scheme. Electrification of these 28 numbers un-electrified villages have been achieved by HPSEBL on 30th September, 2016 well before the target fixed by Ministry of Power, Government of India for Himachal Pradesh. The physical achievements against 28 numbers of electrified villages is as under:
ii) Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reform Program (R- APDRP):
Part-A
Ministry of Power, Government of India has launched the Restructured Accelerated Power Development Reform Program (R-APDRP) to reduce the Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses to 15 percent in project areas. The program is divided into two parts namely Part-A and Part-B. Part-A will include projects for establishment of baseline data and I.T.applications like Meter Data Acquisition, Meter Reading, Billing, Collections, GIS, MIS, Energy Audit, New Connection, Disconnection, Customer Care Services, Web Self Services etc. to verify AT&C losses. Part-B will include distribution strengthening projects. Ministry of Power (MoP) has sanctioned `96.40 crore against DPRs of 14 eligible towns for Himachal during August, 2010. The total project cost for Part-A under R-APDRP is `128.46 crore. The balance is to be met through own funding. Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFCL) has been designated as the Nodal Agency for the program by Government of India. Under Part-A of Restructured Accelerated Power Development Reform Program in Himachal Pradesh, 14 towns namely Shimla, Solan, Nahan, Paonta, Baddi, Bilaspur, Mandi, Sundernagar, Chamba, Dharamshala, Hamirpur, Kullu, Una and Yol had been found eligible for funding.
Scope: The following works were covered under R-APDRP Part-A for Himachal Pradesh:-
1) Providing requisite hardware, software and peripherals at Data Center at Shimla, Disaster Recovery Center at Paonta Sahib and various offices of the above mentioned 14 towns.
2) Development / Implementation of following software applications at Data Center / Disaster Recovery Center level:
a) Meter Data Acquisition System.
b) Energy Audit.
c) Identity and Access Management System,
d) Management Information System containing Dataware Housing and Business Intelligence tools.
e) Enterprise Management System and Network Management System, which is a part of hardware.
Award for Consultant/ Implementation Agency: The award for IT Consultant has been placed to M/s Telecommunication Consultants India Limited, New Delhi in consortium with M/s Vayam Technologies India Ltd. as consortium partner on 31.07.2009 for an amount of `39.71 lakh. The purpose of I.T. Consultant is to assist the HPSEB Ltd. in preparing the feasibility report, bid document, assist in bid process and monitor implementation. The award for I.T. Implementation Agency has been placed to M/s HCL Infosystems Ltd., Noida on 30th August, 2010 for an amount of `99.14 crore, which was further revised to `99.13 crore. Latest Status
1) The project cost for Part-A under RAPDRP is `128.46 crore.
2) Funding Ministry of Power `96.40 crore own resources `32.06 crore
3) Work completed during August, 2015.
4) TPIEA-IT report submitted to M/s PFC during August, 2016.
5) Third Party Independent Evaluation Agency–IT report accepted by M/s PFC (Nodal agency) during September, 2017.
6) Formal communication regarding final completion expected shortly.
7) Total expenditure incurred till date is `84.84 crore
Expected Benefits from the scheme: The focus of the R-APDRP, Part-„A‟ Scheme is on actual demonstration of performance in terms of sustained loss reduction and establishment of reliable and automated systems for sustained collection of accurate base line data through adoption of information technology in the area of energy accounting.
Part-B The Government of India has launched R-APDRP, Part „B‟ scheme for the urban areas having population more than 10,000 (in case of special category States) with scope of renovation, modernization and strengthening of 11kV and 22 kV level substations, Transformers/ Transformer centers, Re-conductoring of 11 kV and LT lines, load bifurcation, feeder separation, Load Balancing, HVDS (11kV), Arial Bunched Conductoring, replacement of electromagnetic energy meters with tamperproof electronic meters, installation of capacitor banks, mobile service centers and strengthening at 33 kV or 66 kV system.
Status of the Scheme: The R-APDRP (Part B) scheme for 14 towns of Himachal Pradesh namely Baddi, Bilaspur, Chamba, Dharamshala, Hamirpur, Kullu, Mandi, Nahan, Paonta Sahib, Solan, Shimla, Sundernagar, Una and Yol having population more than 10,000 were sanctioned by M/s PFC Ltd./ MoP for amounting to `338.97 crore (Govt. of India Loan component `305.07 crore) during the financial year 2011 and 2012. In respect of 14 R-APDRP (Part-B) towns, the towns namely Chamba, Kullu, Mandi, Una, Nahan and Hamirpur stand completed. In respect of remaining 8 towns, the projects are likely to be completed by 30.01.2018. Till date, against the GoI loan and counterpart loan components, M/s PFC has released `231.33 crore (as GoI loan) and `30.75 crore (as counterpart loan). A total fund released till date by M/s PFC is `262.09 crore against the GoI loan and counterpart loan components. Total expenditure to the tune of `289.94 crore has been incurred against `338.97 crore in the 14 towns of Himachal Pradesh up till 30.11.2017. The town-wise detail of expenditure is as follows:
iii) Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS): Government of India (GOI) has launched Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) on 3rd December 2014 for urban towns as per Census 2011. The main objective of the scheme is:
a) Strengthening of subtransmission and distribution networks in the urban areas;
b) Metering of distribution transformers/ feeders/ consumers in the urban areas;
c) IT enablement of distribution sector and strengthening of distribution network, as per Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approval dated 21.06.2013 for completion of the targets laid down under R-APDRP for 12th and 13th plans by carrying forward the approval outlay for R-APDRP to IPDS.
Status of the Scheme: In Himachal Pradesh, total twelve (12) projects under IPDS scheme have been approved by the Centre Level Monitoring Committee. The overall approved cost of these twelve projects is `110.60 crore. In addition to the scheme cost, Committee also approved grant @ 0.5 percent of project cost (i.e `55.00 lakh) as Project Management Agency (PMA) cost. Further, M/s PFC has issued sanction letter on 21.03.2016 with funding provisions of `93.94 crore (i.e. 85 percent of the project cost) as Government of India (GoI) Grant and `55.00 lakh as PMA component. As per the guidelines of IPDS scheme, 10 percent of the project cost (i.e `11.06 crore) as Counterpart Loan has been tied up with M/s REC Ltd. on 17.10.2016, and remaining 5 percent (i.e. `5.60 crore) shall be contributed by HPSEBL through its own sources. The tenders for 12 IPDS Circles were called on full turnkey basis during October 2016, but due to poor response/ non participation of prospective bidders the tenders opening dates were extended five (5) times and finally, due to less participation/ high priced bids (i.e. 2 times of sanctioned cost), full turnkey tendering process was cancelled in 11 IPDS Circles. The tendering process was completed only in one Circle i.e. Nahan wherein the Letter of Award (LOA) has been issued to the Contractor on 22.12.2017. In case of 11 IPDS projects namely Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Dalhousie, Kangra, Rampur, Solan, Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Una and Rohru, HPSEBL has been implementing the projects through the „Departmental Mode of Execution‟ by way of selfprocurement of Major Material and procurement of petty material through the Contractor firm on whom Erection Contract Awards shall be placed.
Completion Target: As per the guidelines, the scheme has to be completed in 30 months (i.e. 6 months for tendering 24 months for implementation) from the date of sanction letter. As per guidelines, IT enablement under IPDS is basically extending the IT services being hosted at Central Data Center under R-APDRP Part-A project to new urban towns having population of 5,000 and above as per census 2011 along with minimum hardware and software requirement. Accordingly, as per guidelines; in Himachal Pradesh 40 towns have been selected. IT enablement in these towns will enable improvement in consumer satisfaction and power supply reliability and ultimately reduction of AT&C losses with the help of accurate measurement and proper energy accounting and auditing. This is also required in view of the proposed monitoring of all 11 KV feeders in the country through National Power Portal (NPP). Hence, it is prudent to implement IT based system in small towns also across the entire State to derive maximum benefits with increment investment. Further, there was a provision to engage the services of Project Management Agency (PMA) by the State Power Utilities from the reputed agencies to carry out the monitoring and coordination of bidding process, As-is Study of the system, Project Planning and Implementation, Quality Monitoring, Management Information System (MIS) and Web Portal up-dation, which also includes functions such as AT&C analysis, preparation and submission of various reports and coordination with Nodal Agencies i.e. M/s Power Finance Corporation (PFC) Ltd. Accordingly, Ministry of Power (MoP), Government of India (Gol) has considered the proposal submitted by HPSEB Ltd. and approved and amount of `27.36 crore for 40 towns in Himachal Pradesh with the details are as hereunder:-
1) Approved DPR cost for 40 towns including Data Center (DC), Disaster Recovery (DR) and Customer Care Center (CCC) up gradation is `27.36 crore.
2) Government of India (Gol) grant of `23.26 crore (85 percent of sanctioned project cost).
3) Government of India (Gol) grant for Project Management Agency `14.00 lakh (0.5 percent of sanctioned project cost).
4) Total Grant is `23.40 crore.
Present Status:
1) Project Management Agency has been appointed.
2) Request for Proposal (RFP) to appoint the IT Implementing Agency (ITIA) for IPDS IT Phase-II has been floated and Pre-Bid Conference has been conducted on 30th and 31st October, 2017.

Computerized Billing and Energy Accounting Package (IT Package): Computerized Billing and Accounting Package (IT Package) was implemented under the „Accelerated Power Development and Reform Program (APDRP)‟ launched by Ministry of Power (MoP). Under this project, the activities of the operation sub-division are computerized through functionalities such as Pre-Billing Activities, Billing Activities, and Post Billing Activities, Store Management at Sub-Division Level, Customer Relationship Management, Electrical Network Management, and Energy Accounting/ Auditing and Management Information System (MIS). The award was placed on M/S HCL Info systems Noida for an amount of `30.58 crore. The project has been implemented in 132 Sub Divisions of 27 Divisions and 12 Circles covering more than 12 lakh consumers.
SAP based computerized billing in 61 Electrical Sub Divisions: In view of the issues in the existing computerized billing implemented in various Electrical Sub Divisions, it has been decided by the HPSEBL management to go for a standard platform for billing. As various modules of SAP are being implemented in HPSEBL under ERP project, therefore computerized billing in left out 61 Electrical Sub Divisions on SAP platform was approved to avoid handling of multiple platforms. The work of SAP based computerized billing implementation in 61 Electrical Sub Divisions was awarded to M/s TCS Limited on 24.07.2015 for amounting to `16.47 crore. The implementation of SAP based computerized billing in 61 Sub Divisions consists of many key features like New Connection, Disconnection, Metering, AMR, Billing, Spot Billing, Collection, and MIS. The provision of AMR has also been made in SAP based computerized billing for consumers having connected load greater than 100 KW in 61 Electrical Sub-Divisions. The project consists of supply, installation, commissioning of the Meter Data Acquisition System (MDAS), along with providing and fixing Modems to the identified consumer meters.
Present Status: Initially, SAP based computerized billing was implemented in four Electrical Sub Divisions under Electrical Division, Arki during January-2016. Issues faced during initial phase of SAP billing implementation was resolved by M/s TCS. Thereafter, further rollover of SAP billing started in May-2016. M/s TCS completed SAP billing implementation in 59 Electrical Subdivisions in March 2017. SAP billing could not be implemented in two Electrical Subdivisions (i.e. Lapiana and Rey) due to unavailability of connectivity from BSNL end. Further, total 235 number modems have been installed for consumers having connected load greater than 100 kW. Out of which 213 number modems are registered and communicating, balance 22 installed modems couldn‟t be registered due to Meter port/ Serial port issue. Further, award has been placed on M/s TCS to rollover SAP-ISU billing in 132 Electrical Subdivisions in phased manner. Rollover shall start in January, 2018 and planned to be completed by July, 2018. This billing solution shall also be implemented in balance manually billed 40 number Electrical subdivisions subjected to availability of connectivity.
Implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) project in HP SEB Ltd.:
1) SAP ERP Application has been made live in - Head office, Complete South Operation wing, Complete Electrical System Maintenance wing, Hamirpur and Bilaspur Op. Circle. As a whole, 8 Chief Offices, 11 circles, 45 Division offices, 180 subdivisions, 8 locations at HO have been made live.
2) Payroll of around 13,000 employees, Pensions of around 3,000 pensioners, and GPF of around 12,000 employees is being processed every month through SAP ERP System. All Pension Pay Orders are being generated through SAP System.
3) Billing of all Independent Power Producers of 90 and above is being processed through SAP.
4) Interstate Power Sale-Purchase for Rampur, SJVNL, NHPC, BASPA, SECI, UPCL, NTPC, UJVNL, 25MW above, Universal Billing, NAPP/ RAPP is done through SAP ERP project.
5) Rollout for Mandi circle is under process and will be done during January, 2018.
6) Other left out locations will be covered in phased manner.
Implementation of Smart Grid Pilot Project at Kala Am: H.P. HPSEB Ltd. is implementing Smart Grid Pilot Project at Kala Amb. The work has been awarded to the consortium of M/s Alstom T&D India Ltd. (now M/s GE T&D India Ltd.) and M/s Genus Power Infrastructures Ltd. during February, 2015 for amounting to `24.99 crore and now revised to `25.50 crore. Government of India is funding `9.72 crore for this project. M/S PGCIL has been appointed as Adviser cum Consultancy services provider to HPSEBL for establishment of Smart Grid Pilot Project. All major work i.e. installation of field equipment, Hardware and Software stands completed and Minor rectification works in progress. The work is expected to be completed by March, 2018.

Computerization of all the offices in HPSEBL.
Augmentation and construction of new Sub-Stations and HT/LT lines to provide quality and reliable power to the consumers in the State of H.P.
To reduce the T&D losses

The packages for construction of Neri Khad Intake works, Rana Khad Intake works, Surge Shaft and Storage Reservoir have been completed. The works of Penstock, civil works and power house have also been completed (except minor misc. items). The Project is scattered over a large area having poor communication, tunneling through weak geological formations, sand stone, and clay stone with heavy ingress of water at Inlet heading of Head Race Tunnel. Contracts of HRT have been rescinded twice due to slow progress/ non performance by the contractor‟s and remaining works were awarded during October, 2010.
The work of HRT package has suffered badly due to number of constraints i.e. heavy ingress of seepage water, non-operation of stone Crushing plant at Chullah on account of refusal by Panchayat for issuing NOC, restrictions on mechanical collection and extraction of mining material from river bed as there is provision for manual collection in the Approved Working Management plan of quarry sites, Moreover, long time was taken for obtaining mining clearance from H.P. Government Notification dated 14th September, 2006 issued by MOEF, Government of India and subsequently the Hon‟ble High Court of Himachal Pradesh has stayed the operation of quarry side during August, 2012 has also delayed the completion of HRT.
The excavation of HRT has been completed on 25.03.2013 and concrete lining work has been completed on 05.12.2017. Now the grouting and cleaning works of HRT is in progress and scheduled to be completed by the end of February, 2018. Thereafter water filling activity shall be started for which approximately one month is required. The Project is anticipated to be commissioned during April, 2018. The estimated cost of the Project is `1,281.50 crore at December 2012 price level and updated expenditure as on 31.12.2017 is `1,438.52 crore. All works pertaining to Electro-mechanical and transmission viz. construction of 132 kV Single Circuit transmission line from Chullah to Bassi (15.288 Km) and 132 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line from Chullah to Hamirpur (34.307 Km) stands completed.

The Government of Himachal Pradesh has allotted Sai Kothi–I (15 MW), Devi Kothi (16 MW), Sai Kothi-II (16.50 MW), Hail HEP(18 MW), Raison (18 MW), Batseri (60 MW) and New Nogli (9 MW) to HPSEB Ltd. for implementation. In addition to this Himurja has allotted 2 small HEPs to HPSEBL i.e. Kutahar HEP (4.5 MW) and Tikkar HEP (3.5 MW) for implementation under self-identified category on 19.12.2016. The Physical and Financial status of above projects is as under:-
SAI KOTHI STAGE-I HEP(15 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEB Ltd. by the GoHP for execution/implementation. The Detail Project Report of the scheme has been prepared and submitted to DOE for according Techno Economic Clearance (TEC). The pre-construction stage activities are in progress and the status of same is as under:-
1) The NOCs from all concern Department/ Gram Panchyats/ Gram Sabhas have been obtained.
2) The collection of revenue papers from the revenue department is under progress.
3) A sum of `876.94 lakh has been spent up to 30.9.2017 and an anticipated amount of `607.95 lakhs is expected up to 31.03.2018.
SAI KOTHI STAGE-II HEP (16.50 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEB Ltd. by the Government of Himachal Pradesh for execution/ implementation. The DPR of the project has been completed and Techno Economic Clearance (TEC) has also been obtained from the Director of energy amounting to `152.26 crore. The pre-construction stage activities are in progress and the status of same is as under:-
1) The NOCs from all concern Department/ Gram Panchyats/ Gram Sabhas have been obtained.
2) The FCA case has been uploaded on the MoEF website.
3) A sum of ` 1,069.03 lakh has been spent up to 30.9.2017 and an anticipated amount of `738.52 lakh is expected up to 31.03.2018.
DEVI KOTHI STAGE-II HEP (16 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEB Ltd. for execution/ implementation. The Detail Project Report has been completed and Techno Economic Clearance has also been conveyed by the Director of Energy on dated 19.03.2014. The pre-construction stage activities are in progress and the status of same is as under:-
1) The NOCs from all concern Department / Gram Panchyats/ Gram Sabhas and FRA certificate have been obtained.
2) Online uploading of FCA case is to be taken up after joint visit of the committee comprising members from administration, revenue and forest Deptartment.
3) A sum of ` 948.14 lakh has been spent upto 30.9.2017 and an anticipated amount of `304.54 lakh is expected upto 31.03.2018.
HAIL HEP(18 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEB Ltd. by the Government of Himachal Pradesh for execution/ implementation. The Detail Project Report has been completed and the Techno Economic Clearance has also been conveyed by the Director of Energy on 18.08.2015. The preconstruction stage activities are in progress and the status of same is as under:-
1) The NOCs from all concern Department/ Gram Panchyats/ Gram Sabhas have been obtained.
2) Collection of revenue papers for FRA is under process.
3) A sum of `1,007.46 lakh has been spent up to 30.09.2017 and an anticipated amount of `173.37 lakh is expected up to 31.03.2018. Presently, the expenditure to the projects are being met from the funds available under own resources of HPSEBL. However the matter for availing loan from M/s KFW, Germany is also in progress. As per requirement of M/s KFW for funding of the above projects, the DPR of same are to be updated to international standards for which the consultant are being appointed. If required in future these DPRs shall be revised accordingly and revised TEC shall be obtained.
RAISON HEP (18 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEBL by the Government of Himachal Pradesh for execution/ implementation. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the scheme is in progress. The pre-construction stage activities are in progress wherein the NOCs from concerned departments are being obtained. A sum of `347.28 lakh has been spent up to 30.09.2017 and a provision of `170.54 lakh is expected up to 31.03.2018. All these expenses are being met from the funds available under own resources of HPSEBL and grant from MNRE till financial tie up is made with some financial institution.
TIKKAR HEP (3.5 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEBL by the Government of Himachal Pradesh for execution/ implementation. The capacity of this project has now been revised to 5 MW. The preparation of Detailed Project Report of the scheme is in progress. The pre-construction stage activities are in progress wherein the NOCs from concerned departments are being obtained. A sum of `0.85 lakh has been spent up to 31.12.2017 and a provision of `22.46 lakh is expected up to 31.03.2018. All these expenses are being met from the funds available under own resources of HPSEBL and grant from MNRE till financial tie up is made with some financial institution.
KUTAHAR HEP (4.5 MW): This project has been allotted to HPSEBL by the Government of Himachal Pradesh for execution/ implementation. The capacity of this project has now been revised to 5 MW. The preparation of Detailed Project Report of the scheme is in progress. The pre-construction stage activities are in progress wherein the NOCs from concerned departments are being obtained. A sum of `0.85 lakh has been spent up to 31.12.2017 and a provision of `11.92 lakh is expected up to 31.03.2018. All these expenses are being met from the funds available under own resources of HPSEBL and grant from MNRE till financial tie up is made with some financial institution.
NEW NOGLI HEP (9 MW): The proposal for up gradation of New Nogli HEP (9MW) has been approved by the Government of Himachal Pradesh and funds allotted amounting to `80.00 lakh on account of expenditure incurred on survey and investigation works for the preparation of DPR of New Nogli HEP, which has been conveyed to HPSEBL. The works of survey and investigation are in progress. A sum of `31.86 lakh has been spent up to 31.12.2017 and `40.70 lakh is more expected up to 31.03.2018.

Sawra Kuddu HEP(111 MW): Sawara Kuddu HEP (111 MW) a run-of- the-river scheme on the Pabbar River in Shimla District (Himachal Pradesh) near Rohru. The Project is being financed by ADB (Asian Development Bank) except Head Race Tunnel (HRT) Package, which is being financed by Power Finance Corporation (PFC) out of equity contribution by the State Government. The project is expected to generate 385.78 MU of electricity. The scheduled commissioning date of the project is May, 2019.
Integrated Kashang HEP (243 MW): Integrated Kashang HEP (243 MW) envisages development of Kashang and Kerang Streams, tributaries of the river Sutlej comprising four distinct stages as under:-
1) Stage-I (65 MW) : Comprising diversion of Kashang stream to an underground power house located on the right bank of Satluj near Powari village, developing a head of approximately 830 metre to generate 245.80 MU per annum `2.92 per unit. From the date of commissioning, 244.80 MU has been generated from the Project upto 26.01.2018.
2) Stage-II and III (130 MW):Comprising diversion of the Kerang stream into an underground water conductor system (K-K Link) leading to upstream end of Stage-I water conductor system, augmenting the generating capacity of Stage-I power house using Kerang waters over the 820 metre head available in Kashang Stage-I power house to generate 790.93 MU per annum.
3) Stage-IV (48 MW):This stage is more or less independent scheme. In this scheme, a head of approximately 300 metre could be utilized to develop power in an underground powerhouse located on the right bank of Kerang stream.
Sainj HEP (100 MW): sainj HEP has been contemplated as a run of the river development on river Sainj, a tributary of River Beas in Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. The project comprises of a diversion barrage on the river Sainj near village Niharni and underground power house on right bank of river Sainj near village Suind with a gross head of 409.60 metre to generate 322.23 MU per annum. The project has been executed on EPC mode. The Project is under commercial operation since 04.09.2017. From the date of commissioning, 178.4 MU has been generated from the Project up to 26.01.2018.
Shongtong Karcham HEP (450 MW): Shongtong Karcham Hydro electric project a run-of – river scheme on the river Sutlej in District Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh with diversion barrage, near village Powari, and underground power house, located on the left bank of the river Satluj near village Ralli will generate a gross head of 129 metre to generate 1,579 MU per annum. The project is being constructed through EPC mode. Work of Project on all fronts is in progress. The scheduled commissioning date of the project is March, 2021.
Surgani Sundla (48 MW): The Scheme has been envisaged to use the Tail water of BairaSuil HEP for the Generation of 48 MW of Power. Ministry of Power, GoI has forwarded the case for project funding to DEA, MoF and Government of India for financial tie up with multilateral institutions i.e World Bank, KfW, ADB, AFD, JICA etc.
Thana Plaun HEP (191 MW) The project is contemplated as Storage-cum-Run-of River Scheme envisaging Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) gravity dam of 107 metre high on river Beas in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. The annual power generation in a year shall be 668.07 Million Units.
Renuka ji Dam HEP (40 MW) Renukaji Dam project, conceived as a drinking water supply scheme for the National Capital Territory of Delhi, envisages construction of 148 metre high rock fill dam on river Giri at Dadahu in Sirmaur district and a power house at toe of Dam. The project will ensure 49,800 hectare m of live water storage in its reservoir and a firm water supply to the tune of 23 cusecs to Delhi besides generating 199.99 MU per annum exclusively for use of Himachal Pradesh. An amount of `446.96 crore has been released to the State Government for the land acquisition in respect of Renukaji Dam Project. A sum of `240.69 crore has been disbursed to the land owners by the Land Acquisition Collector, HPPCL till October, 2017. The project was put up for consideration of Advisory Committee on Irrigation, Flood Control and Multipurpose Projects. After deliberation, the Advisory Committee accepted the Project Proposal subject to certain conditions. Conditions are in advanced stage and compliance except for Stage–II forest clearance which requires `458.00 crore to be deposited by HPPCL in CAMPA account.
Deothal Chanju HEP (30 MW) Deothal Chanju HEP (30MW) is a Run of River scheme on Deothal Nallah, a tributatry of Chanju Nallah which is a tributary of Baira River which in turn drains into the river Ravi, in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh. The annual power generation will be about 101.35 MU.
Chanju-III HEP (48 MW) Chanju-III HEP is a Run-of-river Scheme on the Chanju nallah, a tributary of Baira river, which in turn is a tributary of Siul river in Ravi basin, in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh. The annual power generation will be about 176.19 mu. afd (agence francaise de developpement) has agreed to finance the Project and Credit Facility Agreement in this regard was signed between Government of India and AFD on 04.07.2017. The Project agreement is in process of signing.
Solar Projects HPPCL intends setting up two Solar Power Plants; 5 MW at Berra Dol, Near Shri Naina Devi Ji Shrine in District Bilaspur and 10 MW at Aghlor in Distt. Una.A site has been identified at Village Berra-Dol, near Shri Naina Devi ji Shrine, District Bilaspur(H.P.) for setting up of a 5 MW Solar Photovoltaic Plant. Detailed Project Report for the Berra Dol scheme has been prepared by HPPCL. Berra Dol Project will generate 8.39 MU of energy in a year. The project has been assigned to M/S Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (BHEL).
Other areas of Power development H.P. Power Corporation apart from Hydro Power Development intends to diversify its power development activities in other renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind power to meet the growing energy demands for the development of the State and the Indian Nation.

Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited (HPPTCL) is an undertaking of Himachal Pradesh with a view to strengthen the transmission network in Himachal Pradesh and to facilitate evacuation of power from upcoming generating plants. The jobs entrusted to Corporation by Government of Himachal Pradesh inter-alia included execution of all new works; both Transmission Lines and Sub-Stations of 66 KV and above voltage rating, formulation, up-gradation, execution of Transmission Master Plan of Himachal Pradesh for strengthening of transmission network and evacuation of power.
HPPTCL is discharging the functions of a State Transmission Utility (STU) and coordinating the transmission related issues with Central Transmission Utility, Central Electricity Authority, Ministry of Power (GOI), Himacahl Pradesh Government and HPSEB Ltd. Besides, corporation is also responsible for planning and coordination of transmission related issues with IPPs, CPSUs, State PSUs, HPPCL and other State/ Central Government Agencies. The Corporation is planning transmission system in such a way to ensure principles of reliability, security, eco-friendly and economy matched with rising and desirable expectation of cleaner, safer, healthier environment to people, both affected and benefited by its activities is one of the objective of the corporation.
The Government of India has approved ADB loan of $ 350 Million for implementation of Transmission Projects covered in Power System Master Plan (PSMP) in Himachal Pradesh and loan agreement for Tranche-I for undertaking implementation of Transmission projects in District Kinnaur (Satluj Basin) and Shimla (Pabbar basin) estimated at a cost of $ 113 Million has been signed and made effective from January,2012. The Following Transmission Projects are under execution:-
1) 400/220/66 kV, 2x315 MVA substation at Wangtoo in district Kinnaur. The awarded amount for the project is `310.00 crore and shall be commissioned in December, 2018.
2) 400/220/66 kV, 2x315 MVA substation at Pragati Nagar (Kotkhai) in District Shimla. The awarded amount for the project is `144.00 crore. It shall be commissioned in March, 2018.
3) 220 kV, transmission line from Hatkoti to Pragati Nagar in District Shimla. The awarded amount for the project is `62.00 crore and shall be commissioned in March, 2018.
4) 33/132 kV 31.5 MVA GIS Substation at Pandoh. The awarded amount for the project is `37.00 crore. It shall be commissioned in March, 2018.
5) 33/132 kV 2x25/31.5 MVA GIS Sub-station at Chambi (Shahpur). The awarded amount for the project is `45.00 crore. It shall be commissioned in June, 2019. The following Transmission Projects have been funded through domestic borrowing.
6) 33/220 Kv, 63 MVA Sub-station at Karian in district Chamba has been commissioned in 2015 and the work of line Karian to Chemara is in progress.
The Tranche-II of ADB loan amounting to $110 Million has been signed in September, 2014. The following seven number of projects have been awarded:-
1) 66 kV GIS Switching sub-station Urni. The awarded amount for the project is `28.00 crore and shall be commissioned in December, 2018.
2) 400/220/33 kV GIS Sub-station Lahal. The awarded amount for the project is `233.00 crore and shall be commissioned in June, 2018.
3) 220 kV line from Charor to Banala. The awarded amount for the project is `47.00 crore and shall be commissioned in December, 2019.
4) 220 kV D/C line from Lahaul to Budhil. The awarded amount for the project is `5.00 crore and shall be commissioned in June, 2018.
5) 132 kV Kangra Dehra line from Chambi sub-station. The awarded amount for the project is `18.00 crore and shall be commissioned in June, 2019.
6) 66 kV D/C line from Urni to Wangtoo Sub-station. The awarded amount for the project is `14.00 crore and shall be commissioned in December, 2018.
7) 220 kV D/C line from Sunda to Hatkoti. The awarded amount for the project is `56.00 crore and shall be commissioned in March, 2020.

Himurja has made concerted efforts to popularize renewable energy programmes throughout the State with financial support of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India and State Government. Efforts are continued for promotion and providing of renewable energy devices like Solar Cooker, solar water heating system, decentralized solar photovoltaic applications etc. HIMURJA is also assisting the Government for exploitation of Small Hydro (upto 5 MW) in the State. The achievements of HIMURJA during the year 2017-2018 (upto December,2017), anticipated upto March, 2018 and target fixed for 2018-19 are as under:
A. SOLAR THERMAL PROGRAMME:
i) Solar Water Heating System: Solar water heating systems of 3,500 litre per day capacity have been installed upto December,2017 anticipated achievement upto March,2018 will be about 8,000 litre per day. A target of 10,000 litre per day capacity solar water heating systems installation has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
ii) Solar Cooker: During the current financial year 41 Box type and 5 Dish type solar cookers under NSM have been provided up to December,2017. Anticipated achievement upto March, 2018 will be about 80 Box type and 15 Dish type solar cookers. A target of 250 Box type and 50 Dish type solar cookers has been proposed for the year 2018-19 under MNRE, Government of India programme.
iii) CST Solar Steam Cooking System: During the current financial year Solar Steam cooking systems of 96 sq. meters collector area have been installed under NSM up to Dec, 2017. Anticipated achievements upto March, 2018 will be 200 sq. metres. A target for installation of CST Solar Steam cooking systems of 150 sq. metres collector area have been proposed for the year 2018-19 under MNRE, Government of India Programme.
B. SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PROGRAMME(SPV):
i) SPV Street Lighting System: During current financial year upto December,2017, 23,254 number of SPV Street Lighting Systems have been installed for community use up to December,2017 under NSM of Government of India, anticipated figures upto March, 2018 will be about 25,000. A target of 10,000 SPV Street Lighting systems has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
ii) SPV Domestic Light: During the current financial year 481 number of SPV Domestic Lights have provided upto December, 2017 under National Solar Mission and anticipated figures upto March, 2018 will be about 750. A target of 1,000 SPV Domestic Lights has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
iii) SPV Lanterns: During current financial year (2017-18): 11,191 number of SPV Lanterns have been provided on full cost up to December,2017 and anticipated achievement upto March,2018 will be about 13,000. A target of 5,000 Lanterns has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
iv) Solar Power Plants/Projects:
a) Off-grid Solar Power Plants: During current financial year 2017-18 SPV Power Plant of 60 kWp have been commissioned upto December,2017 under NSM of Government of India, anticipated figures upto March, 2018 will be about 330 kWp. A target of 1,000 kWp capacity SPV Power Plants has been proposed under MNRE, Government of India programme/ Tribal Sub Plan for the year 2018-19.
b) Grid-connected Solar Power Projects: Anticipated achievement upto March,2018 will be about 4 MW. A target of 15 MW capacity Solar Power Projects has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
c) Grid-connected Solar Roof Top Power Plants: Anticipated achievements upto March, 2018 will be about 450 kWp. A target of 2,000 kWp capacity SPV Power Plants has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
d) SMALL HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECTS UPTO 5 MW CAPACITY BEING EXECUTED THROUGH PRIVATE SECTOR PARTICIPATION: During the current financial year, 5 projects with total capacity of 19.20 MW have been commissioned upto December,2017, anticipated achievement upto March, 2018 will be about 10 projects of 34.10 MW. For the financial year 2018-19, capacity addition of 30.00 MW have been targeted. Upto date status (as on 31.12.2017) of the allotted projects upto 5 MW capacity is as under.
e) HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECTS BEING EXECUTED BY HIMURJA MHEPs: Himurja is operating Micro Hydel projects at Lingti (400KW), Kothi (200 KW), Juthed (100 KW), Purthi (100 KW), Sural (100 KW), Gharola (100 KW), Sach (900 KW) and Billing (400 KW) which are under generation. During current year 25.45 lakh units of electricity has been generated from these projects upto December,2017. Other projects, namely Bara Bhangal (40 KW) and Sarahan (30 KW) have also been executed by HIMURJA. From Bara Bhangal project, energy is being provided to local public. State Government has allotted 18 projects with an aggregate capacity of 36.87 MW capacity to HIMURJA. Out of these 10 projects with a capacity of 2.37 MW have been commissioned, 3 HEPs of 14.50 MW capacity have been allotted by HIMURJA with the approval of the government on BOT basis to M/s Sai Engineerig Foundation, Shimla. Further process for obtaining various clearences for these projects is in progress. For remaining 5 HEPs of 20 MW capacity the tendering process has been initiated for allotment of the projects on BOT basis.
f) BUDGET PROVISION: The expenditure during 2017-18 under Annual Plan/Non Plan will be about `3.53 crore under IREP and NRSE schemes on the basis of budgeted Annual Plan outlay for the promotion of renewable energy programmes including implementation of Small Hydro Programmes in the State, Under Annual Plan/ Non Plan for 2018-19 an outlay of `3.10 crore has been proposed.

Roads are an essential ingredient of infrastructure of economy. In the absence of any other suitable and viable modes of transportation like railways and waterways, roads play a vital role in boosting the economy of the hilly State like Himachal Pradesh. Starting almost from a scratch the State Government has constructed 37,158 Kms. of motorable roads (inclusive of jeepable and track) till December, 2017. The State Government has been assigning a very high priority to road sector. For the year 2017-18, there is an outlay of ` 971.00 crore. The target fixed for 2017-18 and achievements made up to December, 2017 are given as under in table 14.1:-
In the State 10,241 villages as detailed below in table 14.2 were connected with roads as on 31.12.2017:-

The process of improvement of National Highways in the State having total length of 2,017 Kms. which includes urban links and bye-passes, continued during the year also. Upto the end of December,2017, an expenditure of `197.00 crore has been incurred.

There are only two narrow gauge railway lines connecting Shimla with Kalka (96 Km.) and Jogindernagar with Pathankot (113 Km.) and one 33 Km. broad gauge railway line from Nangal Dam to Charuru in District Una.

Road Transport is the main stay of economic activity in the Pradesh as other means of transport namely Railways, Airways, Taxies, Auto Rickshaw etc. are negligible. Therefore, the road transport corporation assumes paramount importance in the State. The passenger transport services to the people of Himachal Pradesh, within and outside the State are being provided by Himachal Road Transport Corporation with a fleet strength of 3,254 buses and plying bus services on 2,693 routes with coverage of 6.14 lakh Kms. (approx.) daily (upto 30.11.2017) 14.6 For the benefit of people the following schemes remained in operation during the year:-
i) Green Card Scheme: Green card holder is allowed 25 percent discount in fare, if the journey under taken by passenger is of 50 km. The cost of this card is `50 and having its validity for two years.
ii) Silver Card Scheme: Corporation has introduced silver card scheme. The cost of this card is `20 and having its validity for two years. This card having 30 percent discount in fare and also valid in HRTC buses to travel upto 18 kms of the other States.
iii) Samman Card Scheme: Corporation has intoroduced Samman card scheme for the senior citizen of the age of the 60 years or more. Under this scheme, the discount of 30 percent in fare is allowed in ordinary buses.
iv) Free Facility to Women: Women have been allowed free travelling facility in HRTC ordinary buses on the occasion of “Raksha Bandhan” and “Bhaiya Dooj”. Muslim women have been allowed free travelling facility on occasion of “Id” and “Baker Id”
v) Discount in fare to Women: The Corporation has also allowed 25 percent discount in fare in ordinary buses within the State to the women.
vi) Free Facility to Students of Government Schools: The students of Government schools up to +2 classes have been allowed free travelling facility in HRTC ordinary buses.
vii) Free Facility to the person suffering from serious disease: Free travelling facility to cancer, spinal injury, kidney and dialysis patients along with one attendant in HRTC buses for the purpose of medical treatment on referral slip issued by the Doctor within and outside the State.
viii) Free Facility to the Special abled persons: The Corporation is providing free travelling facility to special abled persons having disability of 70 percent or more along with one attendant within State.
ix) Free Facility to the Gallantry Awardees: The Gallantry Award winners have been allowed free travelling facility in HRTC‟s ordinary buses in addition to Delux Buses in the State.
X) Purchase of New Buses: 325 new buses have been included in the fleet of HRTC in order to provide safe and comfortable transport facility to the passengers.
Xi) Luxury Buses: The Corporation is plying 94 super luxury (Volvo / Scania) and 28 luxury AC buses under Wet-Leassing scheme to interstate roads to provide better transport facility to the public.
Xii) 24X7 Helpline: 24x7 HRTC/ Private Bus Passenger‟s helpline No.94180-00529 and 0177-2657326 have been introduced to lodge and address the complaints of passengers.
xiii) Taxies on sealed roads: Taxies Services have also been introduced by the Corporation in Shimla Town for public on sealed/ restricted roads.
xiv) Tempo traveller to major Tourist localities: Corporation introduced 7 tempo traveller under wet- leasing scheme to major Tourist localities of the State in order to provide comfortable journey to the Tourist/ general Public.

Himachal Pradesh has minimum presence of rail, air and water transport services, therefore, the State is almost entirely dependent upon road transport. The role of this department is to implement different rules/ acts and especially central motor vehicle Act. As on 31.12.2017 the State has a total of 14,62,080 vehicles, out of which 2,78,980 are transport vehicles, and 11,83,100 are non transport vehicles in the state. District wise total of vehicles are as shown as detailed below in table 14.3 During the year 2017-18, a sum of `50.01 crore has been provided to the HRTC for replacement of old buses. In addition to this `37.50 crore has been provided for the construction of bus stands during this financial year. During the year 2017-18 upto 31.12.2017, the department has challenged 30,072 vehicles for different offences and a sum of `566.52 lakh have been received.

Significant achievements of the Department during the year 2017-18 are as under:
i) I.T intervention: Department of Transport has implemented web-based softwares viz. Sarathi for Driving licence and Vahan for vehicle registration, tax collection and issuance of permits in all the Registering and Licensing Authority wherein applicants can apply online for Driving Licence and vehicle related services. In all these services, applicants can deposit fee/taxes online through Cyber Treasury. e-payment facility has been integrated with transport software for seamless delivery to the citizens . Arrangement has been made to provide this facility for collection of various fees/taxes related to vehicles and driving licence transactions on 24x7 basis, which helps the public to avoid hassles faced in Department of Transport.
ii) Inspection and Certification Centre: In order to improve the inspection and certification of vehicles in the State Ministry of Road Transport and Highway has proposed to sanction, inspection and Certification Centre at Baddi in Solan Distrisct at a cost of `14.40 Crore. The land of 63.03 bighas which has been transferred in the name of the Transport Department. The International Centre for Automotive Technology (I.C.A.T.) Gurugram has been appointed as executing agency by the Ministry. M/S comprehensive Architectural services has been selected as Architect and M/S City Dialouge D-513 Jal-Vayu Tower Sector 47 Noida has been engaged for carrying out the survey of land. Based on its success and response, more such centres shall be established in the State in future.
iii) Creation of Transport Nagar: At present most of the motor mechanical workshops which cater a large number of vehicles are functioning on road sides which are creating not only congestion on the road but also a public nuisance and risk for accident. The department plans to shift the workshops to locations away from roads and create multiple facilities like parking lots, seating places, eating places, toilets, recreation centres and other facilities at the site of the newly created Transport Nagars in all districts of the State. In the current financial year provision of `8.00 crore has been made for basic infrastructure for these Transport Nagars.
iv) Environmental Protection: The vehicles plying in the State are major source of environmental Pollution. The polluting vehicles would be gradually phased out by way of input of appropriate technology and introduction of nonpolluting vehicles i.e. Bharat Stage–IV and V. The pollution check Post at Vashist, Manali has been established by the department to keep check on the polluting vehicles.
v) Water Transport: The department has taken initiatives to promote Water Transport in Himachal Pradesh. These shall be promoted in Govind Sagar, Lake (Bilaspur), Chamera Dam (Chamba), Koldam (Shimla, Bilaspur and Mandi) to promote water transport. For this purpose tender has been awarded to conduct survey and feasibility report to E-Meritime Consultancy Private Ltd. Mumbai. The report will be submitted in this financial year.
vi) Driving Training School and Pollution Check Centre: Presently 10 Government, 11 HRTC and 190 Private Driving Training Schools are functioning in the State. As for, as Pollution check centre is concern 5 under Government Sector and 88 under private sectors are functioning at different places in the State.

Tourism sector in Himachal Pradesh has been recognized as one of the most important sectors of the economy as it is being realized as a major engine of growth for future and as such contribution of the tourism sector to the State GDP is 6.6 percent approximately which is quite significant. The State is endowed with all the basic resources necessary for thriving tourism activity like geographical and cultural diversity, clean and peaceful environment and beautiful streams, sacred shrines, historic monuments and the friendly and hospitable people.
Tourism Industry in Himachal Pradesh has been given very high priority and the Government has developed appropriate infrastructure for its development which includes public utility services, roads, communication network, airports, transport facilities, water supply and civic amenities etc. At present about 2,907 hotels having bed capacity of about 81,514 are registered with the department. In addition, there are about 1,220 Home Stay units registered in the State having about 7,044 beds.
To give boost to the Tourism in the State, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved loan assistance worth US $ 95.16 million to Himachal Pradesh for development of tourist infrastructure in the State. Under Tranche-I financial assistance of US $ 33.00 million has been approved and the completion period of the projects is June, 2018 Community Based Tourism under Trenche-1 was implemented in 5 clusters of the State (Dhameta, Kangra-Paragpur, Chintpurni, Nainadevi and Shimla-Chail) in which various types of skilled and livelihood based trainings were provided and total 5,316 participants (Female 2,822 and Male 2,494) were trained. Under Tranche-3 total finance of US $62.16 million has been approved on 28th September, 2015. The completion period of Tranche-3 is June, 2020. Under this Tranche there are total 15 sub-projects of civil works out of which 9 sub-projects have been awarded Three projects i.e. Conservation and Restoration of Rock Cut Temple Masroor, Tourism Culture Centre at Shimla (Peterhoff) and Creation of Cultural Centre for Traditional Crafts and Arts at Haroli Una has been dropped and now in place of these three projects the work of Conservation/ Restoration and Rehabilitation of Bantony Castle in the Heritage Zone, Shimla is being executed and rest of the three projects are at bidding stage. Under Tranche-3, 19 Panchayats have been selected for the implementation of Community Based Tourism (CBT) projects, out of which initial training have been started in 7 panchayats and total 673 participants participated. The Government of India, Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned the project Integrated Development of Himalyan Circuit in Himachal Pradesh worth `9,976.05 lakh under Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Under this project total 14 tourism development projects have been sanctioned for the State.
The Department of Tourism is encouraging private sector to develop tourism related infrastructure in the State under Public Private Partnership (PPP). The Ropeway project from Bhunter to Bijli Mahadev has been signed on 23.02.2017 between Department of Tourism and Usha Breco Chamunda Devi Ropeway Pvt. Ltd. condition precedence are being fulfilled by the promoter. In addition to above, the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation has identified the following five sites for offering the same to the private sector on a long term lease basis:-
A sustained marketing of the State is being done throughout the year in print and electronic media. In order to promote tourism dissemination of tourist information plays significant role. The department of Tourism prepares different types of promotional publicity material like brochures/ pamphlets, posters, blow-ups etc. and participate in various tourism fairs and festivals in the country and abroad. The Department and HPTDC along with private hoteliers participated in more than 40 fairs and festivals, within and outside the State during 2017-18.
The Department has organized various general training Courses for the unemployed youth of the State like Basic Course on Tourism, orientation of Taxi Drivers, Poters, Dhaba Workers and Owners, Trekking Guide Course, Homestay Owners, Ski and Adventure Courses etc. In 2017-18 Department has approved the proposal to train 508 unemployed youth in 7 courses to be conducted in different areas of Himachal Pradesh.
The Department has organized and supports the Tourism, related events and festival. During the current financial year the Department has organized /participated in following events. Participated in India Travel Mart (ITM) Amritsar, Lucknow, Jaipur and India International Travel Exhibition (IITE), Aurangabad and Indore, India international Travel Mart (IITM), Bangaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad and Kochin, Tourism and Travel Fair (TTF), Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Surat etc. The department has also prepared promotional films and commercials to promote tourism in the State which includes films of duration 30 minutes, 10 minutes and 5 minutes, three television commercials of 60 seconds and three television commercials of 30 seconds duration.

At present there are only three Airports in Himachal Pradesh namely Shimla, Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) and Kangra. The status of these airports is as under: -
Shimla Airport: The work of widening of runway of Shimla Airport from 23 mtrs.to 30 mtrs. has been completed by the Airport Authority of India (AAI). Refueling facility has also been completed by the Indian oil Corporation (IOC) Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India has launched the “Regional Air Connectivity Scheme-UDAN”. In Jubberhatti (Shimla) airport and Bhunter (Kullu) airports have been included in the said scheme as RCS airports and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) UDAN has been signed between Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA), Airport Authority of India (AAI) and State Government on 16.01.2017. Regular Flights from Shimla airport were started w.e.f. 27.04.2017 under RCS-UDAN. Matter regarding expansion of Shimla airport is under consideration at the level of State Government in view of the huge financial implications involved.
Bhunter (Kullu-Manali) Airport: As per the report of IIT Roorkee the total expenditure of `81.34 crore will be incurred on the diversion of river Beas and it will take approximate 3-4 years. This work will be done by the State Government and thereafter site will be handed over to Airport Authority of India. The diversion of river Beas and extension of runway by the State Government will require 27.77 hectares of land. Work of extension of runway by the Airport Authority of India, New Delhi will be done after diversion of river Beas by the State Government. However, a policy decision regarding financial implications and whether, the land is to be provided free of cost and free from all encumbrances to the AAI for extension of Bhunter airport, is required to be taken at Government level and the same is under consideration of the Government.
Kangra Airport: At present the runway dimension of Gaggal (Kangra) airport is 1372x30 meters. New plan for expansion Gaggal (Kangra) airport is 1820x150 meters has been prepaid by the airport authority of India For this purpose, total 153 acres of land is required free of cost and free from all encumbrances. It involves huge financial implications /burden on the State Government. Indian Air Force is also looking for some land to develop an airfield as an alternative to Pathankot in view of its vulnerability after the recent terrorist strike at Pathankot. The Deputy Commissioner Kangra was directed to explore the possibility of acquisition of land by the Indian Air Force. He has informed that the representatives of Indian Air Force and Indian Army have been requested to submit their consent for acquisition of land measuring 571 acres and the Air Force shall allow the State/ Civil authorities to use the 153 acres of land as well as existing Airstrip for civil purpose matter.

Himachal Pradesh at present has 63 operational helipads. The Government has decided to construct a heliport at Banderaru near Sanjauli-Dhalli bye pass road with a cost of `7.00 crore (approx) for which “In principle approval” has been conveyed by the Government and also FCA approval has been obtained by the Department. In addition, “In principle approval” for construction of Helipads at Chowari, Distt. Chamba amounting to `132.13 lakh (approx.) and Kunnu, District Mandi amounting to `35.26 lakh (approx.) has also been conveyed by the Government and FCA cases of these Helipads are under process.

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation was established in 1972 to Promote Tourism in the Pradesh. Ever since its establishment the Corporation has acted as a catalyst, trendsetter and a prime mover for the promotion of tourism in Himachal Pradesh. The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation expected to earn a net profit of `165.00 lakh during the current financial year.

Education is the key instrument for developing human capability. The State is committed to provide education to all. The concerted efforts of the Government have put Pradesh as one of the leading State in educational literacy. According to 2011 census Himachal Pradesh has a literacy rate of 82.80 percent. Male/ female literacy rate differs considerably in the State as against 89.53 per cent literacy rate for males it is 75.93 percent for females. All out efforts are afoot to bridge this gap.

The policies of the Government in the field of Elementary Education are implemented through the Deputy Directors of Elementary Education and Block Primary Education Officers at District and Block Level respectively with aims:-
1) To achieve the goal of universalization of Elementary Education.
2) To provide Quality Elementary Education.
3) To increase access to Elementary Education.
At present up to 31.12.2017 there are 10,756 notified Primary Schools out of which 10,751 are functional and 2,117 are notified Middle schools out of which 2,103 are functioning in the State. To overcome the shortage of trained teachers, efforts are being made to make fresh appointments of teachers in the needy schools. An attempt has also been made to cater the educational need of special abled children.
To increase enrolment and to reduce the dropout rate and further to enhance the retention rate of the children in these schools, various scholarships and other incentives namely Poverty Stipend Scholarship, Girls Attendance Scholarship, Scholarship for Children of Army Personnel, Scholarship for the students belonging to IRDP families, MiddleMatric scholarship (Medhavi Chhatervariti Yojna), Pre Matric scholarship for Scheduled Castes students on Lahaul-Spiti pattern Scholarship. In addition to the above free Text Books and Uniforms are also being provided for OBC/ IRDP/ SC/ ST and in some cases free Text Books are provided to General Students in non Tribal areas. Mid-day meal scheme is being implemented in all the Government and Government aided Primary and Middle Schools in the State. Under this scheme each student is being provided with hot cooked meal on each day of the school. Computer Education Programme has been started in 1,202 upper primary schools in remotest part of the State.

The following incentives are being provided during the year 2017-18:
i) Middle Merit/Medhavi Chatervarti Yojna `800 per annum per boy/ girl. 1,465 students were benefitted and `11.71 lakh were spent.
ii) Scholarship for IRDP families children `150 per student from class 1st to 5th is being provided and durng the year 2017-18 52,311 students were benefitted and `78.47 lakh have been spent. ` 250 per boy and `500 per girl is provided to students from class 6th to 8th. Under this scheme 47,759 students were benefitted and `1.95 crore have been spent.
iii) Under Girls Attendance Scheme girl students having attendance more than 90 percent is being awarded `2 per month for 10 months. Total 38,854 students were benefitted and `7.71 lakh have been spent.
Free Text Books: Free Text Books are being provided by Himachal Pradesh Government for all IRDP/ SC/ ST/ OBC/ General students for which there is a budget provision of `16.00 crore during 2017-18.
Mahatma Gandhi Vardi Yojana: Under Mahatma Gandhi Vardi Yojana two sets of uniform is being provided for class 1st to 10th with `200 as stitches charges per year. For the year 2017-18, about 6,97,959 students (Classes 1st to 10th) were benefitted. There is a budget provision of `28.00 crore during the year 2017-18.
Free Writing Material: Cash payment is being provided to those SC students who belong to IRDP/ BPL families and who study from 1st to 5th classes in government schools as per the following rates per annum.
a) 1st and 2nd class ` 250
b) 3rd and 4th class ` 300
c) 5th class ` 350 During the financial year 2017-18, 26,099 students were benefitted and an expenditure of `75.70 lakh was incurred.
Sports Activities: A budgetry provision of ` 225.00 lakh was made for the year 2017-18 for carrying out the sports activities of children of Primary/ Elementry schools at Centre, Block, District, State and National levels. The department is organising these activities in conveyance with other line departments like Social Justice and Empowerment and youth and Sports department etc.
Construction of Elementry Education Building: The government has made a budget provision for 2017-18 of `22.55 crore under major head for works to provide adequate infrastructure facilities for construction of Elementary school buildings/rooms and District/Block offices.

Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) launched in the State with a well defined Pre-Project Phase on improving the infrastructure in the District Project Offices, capacity building of educational administrators, teachers, school mapping, micro-planning, surveys etc. The objective of this movement was to ensure universal access, enrolment, removal of gender gaps, retention and completion of elementary schooling by all 6-14 age group children coupled satisfactory quality elementary education with active participation of the community in the management of schools.
The main efforts for improving the quality of elementary education under SSA are as under:
1) Learning Outcomes: The State government has provided subject and class wise learning outcomes developed by the NCERT to all elementary school teachers and they have been directed to teach in such a manner that the desired learning outcomes are attained by the students in each competency.
2) Continuous Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE): CCE is being implemented in all government schools up to class VIII in the State through formative and summative assessments in addition to class tests being taken after completion of every chapter.
3) Prerna: The State Government has to make every primary school child confident in Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. Prerna is an Abhiyan to develop and improve learning abilities of children in the above tools of basic learning needs implemented in 2016-17 in all primary schools. The year 2017-18, PRERNA PLUS with focus on Hindi, English and mathematics for all primary school children has been initiated.
4) Prayas: The State Government has to enhance mathematical and scientific skills of students. Prayas is also an Abhiyan to develop and improve the learning abilities implemented in 2016-17 in all upper primary schools for class VI to VIII children. During the year 2017-18, PRAYAS PLUS has been started in all upper primary schools for class VI to VIII children.
5) Capacity building of teachers: Capacity building of teachers teaching classes VI to VIII on Prerna plus and Prayas Plus has already been done at the DIET level.
6) Computer Aided Learning Programme (CALP): As of now 1,202 Government schools have already been covered with necessary infrastructure such as; 3 computers, 1 multipurpose laser printer, 2 UPSs and furniture, out of three Computers supplied in each school, one is with 42” LCD TV and 170 stand alone middle schools have been approved under SSA during 2017-18 will also be made functional under CALP.

72 schools already covered during 2016-17 and 72 more schools have been taken up during 2017-18. Activities under RAA in selected lab schools:
1) Establishing mathematics laboratories.
2) Strengthening of existing science labs.
3) Developing Science Parks with the help of experts in lab schools. Introducing BaLA features related to mathematics and science learning on the wall and other available space. Developing Vermi compost plants.
4) Preparing students for Regional Mathematics Olympiads. Preparation of students for Children Science Congress (CSC) and Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE). Organization of science and mathematics events – exhibitions, quiz and seminars at the school level.
5) Identification of higher level institutes for mentoring of lab schools. Capacity building of lab school teachers by higher level institutes. Guest lecturers for students at school level by eminent scholars of mentoring institute.
6) Constitution of Science and mathematics clubs for students.
Achievement Surveys: State Level Achievement Survey, subject wise State Level Achievement Survey (SLAS) of all class I to VIII children is being conducted by the State Project Office (SSA/ RMSA) since 2013-14 onwards. On the basis of the findings of this survey, teachers are provided academic support accordingly.
National Achievement Survey: National level Achievement Survey has been conducted by NCERT in the State. Assessment data has been collected and is under the process of analysis. Research: Under research component of SSA, various studies have been conducted and completed. Some of them are listed below:-
1) Teacher absenteeism
2) Socio-economic profile of primary school children.
3) In service teacher training programme under SSA.
4) Role of School Management Committee in improving education in upper primary classes level.
5) Declining trend in enrollment and explanation of causes.
6) Computer aided learning programme in H.P.
School level grants: Every year these grants are provided to schools to carry out small repairs, replacing old equipments or use of these grants by the SMCs as per requirements of children. School Grant `5,000 per annum for primary and `7,000 per annum for upper primary government schools. Maintenance Grant `5,000 for those government schools which have three or less than three class rooms a nd `10,000 for those government schools which have more than three classrooms.
Girl Education: Under model-III, there are 10 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBVs) functioning in Himachal Pradesh. Eight KGBVs are in District Chamba, one each in Shimla and Sirmour districts. As of now, these KGBVs are catering to the needs of as many as 495 girls. These girls belong to poor SC/ ST and minority communities and are provided free boarding–lodging, stipend, medical assistance, stationery, skill education as per need, self defence training, exposure visits etc.
Children With Special Needs (CWSN): Total 9,337 children have been identified with special needs for the year 2017-18. The process of inclusion goes with the following activities:-
1) Identification through SMCs and surveys
2) Medical Camps to identify the need of every CWSN
3) Special Educators to teach these children.
Out of School Children: In Himachal Pradesh there are negligible children who are outside the formal range of education. However they are being attempted to bring into the fold of elementary education through NRSTCs. The first and foremost obligation of RTE Act is to ensure that all children in the age group of 6-14 years should be there in schools. Other Independent studies conducted by IMRB and Pratham have also confirmed that the number of out of school children in Himachal Pradesh is below one percent. In district Bilaspur and Lahaul-Spiti there is no out of school children. It is observed that due to migration from other parts of the country to the urban/semi urban areas of the state, the figure of out of school children keeps on fluctuating. Districts have been asked to conduct survey in the month of July and December every year to keep track of migratory population and enroll them in schools.
Retention: Under SSA there is a provision of two sets of free uniform for all girls, all SC/ST boys, children belonging to BPL families and free text books for all general category boys and girls of class I to VIII. Rests of the students are covered from the State budget. Community participation and the training of SMC members: 16.10 To ensure that education is delivered well at the school level, every student learns and excels, parents of students and PRI members are sensitized as well as oriented every year. Under this intervention schools also prepare School Development Plans (SDPs) reflecting action points at all the three parts of the operating system i.e. at input, process and output level. Community mobilization: This is for wide publicity of all the education initiatives/ schemes launched by the State and Central Government. The purpose of this intervention is to spread the message of all schemes across the State as well as prepare people for active participation and ownership in the implementation of all educational schemes.
Monitoring and review: Monitoring and review mechanism has also been redefined. To improve the quality of review and monitoring, a detailed OMR-based quality monitoring tool, which is easily and digitilable and analyzable, has been prepared and distributed to various block officials. The state has mandated block officials (initially BRCCs, and then BEEOs) to visit schools in their blocks and inspect schools on various key parameters like CCE performance, basic infrastructure, classroom teaching and school management. The resulting data from these inspections is collated, analyzed and then discussed at district and state levels to come up with solutions which can improve the performance of schools on each of these parameters.
Benefits of this intervention include:
1) A single OMR-based quality monitoring tool integrating multiple forms.
2) Regular school visits and inspections by State officials to identify problems / best practices, on this basis to take timely action, if required.
3) Easy digitization of detailed schoolwise data.
4) Monthly review meetings at district and State level data.
5) Increased accountability and culture of data-backed decision making within the government.
6) Reduce burden on State functionaries by replacing multiple review forms with one comprehensive quality monitoring tool.

Highest Priority is being given towards education in the State owing to increasing share of education to the total Plan Outlay of the State every year along with the educational institutions. Up to December, 2017, there are 922 Government High schools, 1,836 Government Senior Secondary Schools and 137 Government Degree colleges including 7 Sanskrit colleges, 1 SCERT, 1 B.Ed. college and 1 Fine Art College running in the State.

To improve the educational status of the deprived sections of the society, various types of scholarships/ stipends are being provided by the State/ Central Goverments at various stages. The scholarship schemes are:-
i) Dr. Ambedkar Medhavi Chhatarvrity Yojna: Under this scheme the scholarship is being given to the top 1,000 meritorious students of SC category and top 1,000 meritorious students of OBC on the basis of Matric examination conducted by HPBSE for 10 +1 and 10+2 classes in recognised institution within or outside of the State `10,000 per student per annum. During the year 2016-17, 1,817 students of SC category and 1,687 of OBC category have benefited under this scheme.
ii) Swami Vivekanand Utkristha Chhatarvrity Yojna: Under this scheme 2,000 top meritorious students of General category declared as such in the result of Matric Examination conducted by HPBSE on merit basis for 10+1 and 10+2 classes are awarded the scholarship studying in school recognising within or outside the state is given `10,000 per student per annum. During the year 2016-17, 3,581 students have been benefited under this scheme.
iii) Thakur Sen Negi Uttkristha Chhatarvrity Yojna: Under this scheme, the scholarship is being given to the top 100 boys and 100 girl students of ST category on the basis of the Matric result conducted by HPBSE on merit basisfor 10+1 and 10+2 classes in school recognising within or outside the State `11,000 per student per annum. During the year 2016-17, total 321 such students benefited under this scheme.
iv) Maharishi Balmiki Chhatarvrity Yojna: The bonafide Himachali girl students belonging to Balmiki families whose parents are engaged in unclean occupation are being given scholarship, under this scheme ` 9,000 per girl student per annum beyond Matric level to college level and for professional courses in Himachal Pradesh irrespective of their status (Government or Private). A total of 27 girls students have been benefited under this scheme during the year 2016-17.
v) Indira Gandhi Utkrishtha Chhatervriti Yojna: Under this scheme, 150 meritorious students for post plus two courses for studying in colleges or doing professional courses shall be awarded ` 10,000 per year per student purely on basis of merit and without any income ceiling. Total 31 students have been benefited under this scheme during the year 2016-17.
vi) Sanskrit Scholarship Scheme: A sum of ` 250 per month for 9th and 10th classes and ` 300 per month for +1 and +2 classes are being given to those students who secure first position in the subject of Sanskrit with 60 percent and above marks.
vii) Sainik School Scholarship: The scheme is applicable to the bonafide H.P. students in the Sainik School Sujanpur Tihra from class VI to XII. In addition, the students are given dietary money `75 per day for 295 days. Clothing allowance `1,500 per annum for the first year and `750 per year for subsequent years.
viii) NDA Scholarship Scheme: The NDA scholarship at different rates is being given to the Cadets of Himachal Pradesh who are getting training at National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla.
ix) Kalpana Chawla Chhatravriti Yojna: Under this scheme, the top 2,000 meritorious girl students of +2 classes of all study groups are given `15,000 per student per annum. During the year 2016-17, total 1,840 students have been benefitted under this scheme.
x) Mukhya Mantri Protsahan Yojna: This scheme has been started during the year 2012-13 and one time `75,000 will be given to all students of State who are selected and take admission for a degree course in any Indian Institute of Technology or All India Institute of Medical Sciences and post graduate diploma course in any Indian Institute of Managment Dhanbad at Jharkhand and Indian Insititute of Science (IISC) at Banglore. Total 164 students benefitted under this scheme in 2016-17.
xi) Rashtriya Indian Military College Scholarship: This award is given to the ten bonafide Himachal Pradesh students, two from each class VIII to XII in RIMC, Dehradun, `20,000 per year per student. Under this scheme 10 students have been benefited during the year 2016-17.
xii) IRDP Scholarship Scheme: A sum of `300 per month for 9th and 10th class, `800 per month for +1 and +2 Class, `1,200 per month for College/Day scholar students and `2,400 per month for Hostellers is being given to those students who belong to IRDP families and studying in Government/ Government Aided Institutions. 45,135 students have been benefited under this scheme during the year 2016-17.
xiii) Scholarship to the children of Armed Forces Personnel Killed/ disabled during wars: A sum of `300 (boys) and `600 (girls) per month for 9th and 10th class, ` 800 per month for 10+1 and 10+2 Class, `1,200 per month for College/ University/ Day scholar students and `2,400 per month for hostellers is being given to Children of Armed Forces Personnel killed/ disabled in different operations/ war.
xiv) Post Matric Scholarship to SC/ST/OBC students (Centrally Sponsored Scheme): The students belongs to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribles whose parents annual income is up to `2.50 lakh and Other Backward Classes students whose parents annual income is up to `1.00 lakh are eligible for full scholarship (i.e. Maintenance allowance + full fee) for all courses and they are studying in Government/ Government Aided Institutions. During the year 2016-17, 40,041 Scheduled Caste, 3,402 Scheduled Tribes and 1,908 Other Backward Classes students were benefitted from this scheme.
xv) Pre-Matric Scholarship to Other Backward Classes students: This scholarship will be awarded to those students from class 1st to 10th whose parents/ guardians income from all sources does not exceed `44,500 per annum. A sum of `50 per student per month for day scholar students and `250 per month for hostellers is being given.
xvi) Pre-Matric Scholarship to SC and ST students: This scholarship will be awarded to those students whose parents/ guardians income from all sources does not exceed `2.00 lakh per annum. A scholarship of `2,250 per student per annum to Day scholars and `4,500 per annum to hostellers of class IX and X is being given. During the year 2016-17, total 16,127 of SC category and 1,953 students of ST have been benefited under this scheme.
xvii) Incentive to SC/ ST girl students for secondary education: Under this Centrally Sponsored Scheme SC/ ST girl students who take admission in 9th Class after passing Middle Standard Examination from H.P. Board School Examination. The amount of incentive under this scheme is `3,000 and will be given in the shape of a Time Deposit.
xviii) Merit cum means Scholarship Scheme for Students belonging to Minority Community (CSS): This Scholarship is for the Minority students belonging to Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Budhhist communities, whose parents/ guardians income from all sources does not exceed `2.50 lakh from all sources and student should not have less than 50 percent marks. A total of 63 students have been benefitted during 2016-17 under this scheme.

Tremendous efforts are made to promote Sanskrit Education by the State Government as well as Centre Government. The details are as under:-
a) Award of scholarships to students of High/ Senior Secondary Schools studying Sanskrit.
b) Providing grant for the salary of Sanskrit Lecturers for teaching Sanskrit in Secondary Schools.
c) Modernization of Sanskrit Schools.
d) Grant to State Government for various schemes for promotion of Sanskrit and for research/ research projects.

The Teachers Training Programmes need to be strengthened to equip in-service teachers with the latest techniques/ teaching methods. Seminars/ re-orientation courses are being conducted by SCERT Solan, GCTE Dharamshala, HIPA Fairlawns, Shimla, NUPA New Delhi/CCRT/ NCERT/ RIE, Ajmer and RIE Chandigarh. Approximately 1,700 teaching and non-teaching staffs have been trained during 2017-18.
Yashwant Gurukul Awas Yojna: In order to provide suitable residential accommodation to the teachers posted in High/Senior Secondary Schools of Tribal and hard areas of the State. The scheme is being implemented in 61 identified schools of the State. Free Text Books 16.17 The State Government is providing free text books to the students of 9thand 10thclasses belonging to SC, ST, OBC and BPL categories. An expenditure of `11.71 crore have been spent for this purpose and 1,09,974 students have been benefited during the academic session 2017-18.
Vocational Education: In order to provide employability to students the department imparted Vocational Education under NSQF in 873 Schools with 11 subjects/ trades i.e. Automobiles, Retail, Security, ITeS, Healthcare, Tourism, Agriculture, Physical Education, Telecom, BFSI and Media. Under this scheme 1,816 vocational trainers have been deployed in 873 schools and about 60,000 students have been enrolled in this programme.
Free Education to Special abled Children: Free education to the children having more than 40 percent special abled is being provided in the State upto University level since 2001-02.
Free Education to Girls: Free education is being provided to girl students in the State up to University level including vocational and professional i.e. only tuition fee is exempted.

Information Technology education is being imparted in all Government Senior Secondary Schools on self finance basis through outsourcing where students had opted for IT education as an optional subject. The department is charging IT fee `110 per month per student. The students of SC (BPL) families are getting 50 percent fee concession of total fee. About 83,286 students are enrolled in IT education subject out of which 6,361 SC (BPL) students are being benefitted under this scheme. An amount of `41.98 lakh was spent in this scheme out of which 50 percent will be reimburse by Social Justice and Empowerment Department.

The Department has taken a lead in implementing the Rashtrya Madhayamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) at secondary level under Himachal Pradesh School Education Society (HPSES) on the sharing funding pattern 90:10 i.e. 90 percent by Government of India and 10 percent by Sate Government from the year 2015-16. The activities under RMSA are being taken up to strengthen infrastructure in the existing secondary schools , training to in service teachers, self defence trainings and kala Utsav with Annual grant to schools in the State. For the financial year 2017-18 Project Approval Board (PAB) of the Government of India has approved an amount of `14,092.50 lakh out of which Government of India and State have released `3,473.00 lakh and `480.27 lakh respectively for the implementation of various activities of Rashtrya Madhayamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA).

The Centrally Sponsored Scheme for the construction and running of Girls Hostel for Students of Secondary and Senior Secondary Schools in Educationally Backward Block is to strengthen the Boarding and lodging facilities for Girl‟s Students in classes IX to XII. The girls belonging to SC, ST, OBC, Minority Communities and BPL families shall be benefited under this scheme. Girls Hostel construction in Bachhad block of Chamba, Sirmaur District. The construction work of three girl‟s hostels i.e. Himgiri, Mehla (Chamba) and Shillai (Sirmour) in educationally backward blocks sanctioned under RMSA, have been completed and made functional with the capacity of 50 girls each during the year 2017-18. The Government has approved an amount of ` 35.98 lakh and out of which an amount of `15.99 lakh has been received for three Girl‟s Hostels till date.

In order to improve and strengthen the teaching learning activity by using smart class rooms and multimedia teaching aids, department has successfully implemented ICT in 2,132 Government High/ Higher Secondary Schools and five Smart Schools up to 2017-18. Government of India has introduced 20 more schools for the year 2017-18 and work is under progress.

The Rashtriya Ucchtar Shiksha Abhiyan has been implemented in the state from the year 2013-14 on the funding pattern of 90:10 i.e. 90 percent Centre and 10 percent State under the 12th five year plan, to improve the Higher Education System in the state. The State Government has constituted a SHEC (State Higher Education Council) for the proper implementation of quality improvement system in the state. The semester system and the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) has been introduced for the Under–Graduate Classes in the Government/ Private/ Aided/ Sanskrit Colleges in the State.
Under the scheme, an amounting to ` 159.08 crore have been received from MHRD, GoI and the same has been released to all beneficiary higher institutions of the State. All the institutions of the state are being encouraged to go for evaluation and accreditation by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) Banglore. At present 01 HPU, 04 Government Degree Colleges have been accreditated with “A” grade of NAAC. The State has now one University, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) and 32 Government Degree Colleges accreditated with NAAC.
Distribution of Net books/ Laptops: The department is going to distribute Net books/ laptops to the 10,260 (260 additional laptops to the students who scored similar marks as per merit cut off list of 10th and 12th class) meritorious students of 10th and 12th class of Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education, Dharamshala under Rajiv Gandhi Digital Students Yojna 2017-18 with the aim to strengthen the teaching learning activities in schools.

Inclusive Education for special abled at Secondary Stage is commenced in the State in the year 2013-14. Under this scheme, 12 model schools have been established in all the districts and 18 Special Educator are engaged in these schools for imparting the Special Education to CWSN enrolled in the schools. 2,734 children with special need have been identified. For the assessment of these children 49 medical camps have been organised and 380 Aids and Appliances have been distributed to the needy children. Free Text books, Escort Allowance, Braille book have been supplied to the Children with Special Need during the year 2017-18.
Mukhya Mantri Vardi Yojana: Under this scheme two sets of uniform are being provided to all the students studying in class XI to XII in the state. For this purpose `10.81 crore have been spent on 1, 77,049 students during the year 2017-18.
Mukhya Mantri Aadarsh Model Schools: To improve the quality education two Government Senior Secondary Schools are to be designated as Aadarsh Model Schools in each constituency of each district and have been made functional in the state during the year 2017-18.
Mukhya Mantri Gyandeep Yojana:To improve the educational status of all sections of the society and interest subvention of 4 percent would be given to all himachali students pursuing higher education in India and abroad availing educational loans from banks upto `10.00 lakh irrespective of income level has been made under Mukhya Mantri Gyandeep Yojana.

Department of Technical Education was established in the year 1968 and in July 1983 ,the vocational and Industrial and Training Institutes were also brought under the umbrella of this department At the moment, the admission in Engineering/ Pharmacy department is providing education in the field of Technical Education, Vocational and Industrial Training. Today the department has reached a stage where aspiring students of the State can get admission in Engineering/ Pharmacy both diploma and degree as well as certificate courses in Himachal Pradesh through under mentioned institutions in Himachal Pradesh.
In Engineering and Pharmacy Colleges, the technical Education is imparted at degree level, whereas the Polytechnics are providing professional/ technical education at diploma level 2 to 1 years courses in 14 Engineering and Non-Engineering disciplines. The Industrial Training Institutes are providing 2 and 1 year certificate level courses in 37 Engineering and 19 Non-Engineering trades. The present intake of students in the existing Institutions is as under :
i) Degree Level 4,070
ii) B-Pharmacy 858
iii) Diploma Level 7,837
iv) Govt/Private ITI‟s 47,784
Total 60,549
The Department has opened Rajiv Gandhi Government Engineering College, Kangra at Nagrota Bagwan under RUSA with three disciplines namely Mechanical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering and Civil Engineering with an intake of 60 students in each discipline and in the discipline of Electrical Engineering which has been started from 2015-16. An amount of `26.00 crore has been sanctioned under RUSA by the Government of India, MHRD Department of Higher Education, New Delhi. The Detailed Project Report worth `127.00 crore has been submitted to the Deptt. of Higher Education under RUSA. Mahatma Gandhi Government Engineering College, Rampur has been started with classes at Jawahar lal Government Engineering. College, Sundernagar with 2 disciplines i.e. Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering with intake capacity of 60 students each. In addition, Central Institute of Plastic Engineering and Technology (CIPET), Baddi and Regional Vocational Training Institute for women, Shimla have also become operational from the academic session 2015-16.
Six Government Politechnics namely Sundernagar, Hamirpur, Kandaghat, Rohru, Ambota and Kangra have been covered under the scheme of Community Development through Polytechnics, Government of India has released the grant of `285.80 lakh to these Polytechnics.
The department proposes to open one new Government Polytechnic for Women at Rehan in District Kangra with the estimated cost of ` 26.00 crore with the help of HPKVN funded by the Asian Development Bank from the Academic Session 2017-18 and also the department proposes to establish Government Polytechnic at Ambota from the year 2017-18.
Technical Education quality Improvement programme phase-III (TEQIP-III) has been started with effect from 01 April 2017 and the project period is for 3 years i.e. upto 31 March, 2020. Three colleges of the State viz JNGEC, RGGEC, ABVGIE and Him TU has been selected under project namely Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme Phase-III with project cost of `20.00 crore sanctioned to Him TU and `10.00 crore to each of the selected Institution.
Fourteen number of I.T.Is namely Shamshi, Mandi, Chamba, Shahpur, Nadaun at Rail, Nahan, Shimla, Reckong-Peo, Rong Tong, Mandi (W) and Shimla (W), Solan, Una and Rampur have been covered for up-gradation as Centres of Excellence and General Upgradation under Vocational Training Improvement Project (VTIP) with World Bank Assistance. Funds amounting to `46.50 crore, Centre Share `34.85 and `11.65 crore as State Share have been received as Central Assistance and State share during the period 2006-07 to December,2016, which have been spent for providing modern machinery and equipments, honorarium/remuneration and training to teachers and also for construction of buildings etc. and expenditure worth `46.47 crore has been incurred under the scheme so far.
The department is on developing multi-skills in the trainees to add to their employability in the Industrial Sector. 33 I.T.Is. have been upgraded under Public Private Partnership Mode (PPP Mode) after due consultation/ discussion with the State Steering Committee and with PHD Chamber of Commerce and CII and various other Industrial Associations located in different parts of Himachal Pradesh, for which central assistance amounting to `82.50 crore has been received in the respective I.T.I. ` 2.50 crore per I.T.I. from Government of India during the period 2008-09 to December,2016. So far expenditure worth `108.70 crore (Excess expenditure has been incurred out of IRG and interest accrued) has been incurred for the Up-gradation of infrastructure in I.T.Is.

The State Government has ensured that health services for effective prevention and treatment intervention are accessible to people applied efficiently. In Himachal Pradesh, Health and Family Welfare department is providing services which include curative, preventive, promotive and rehabilitative services through a network of 85 Hospitals, 91 Community Health Centres, 577 Primary Health Centres, 16 ESI Dispensaries and 2,085 Sub-Centres. To provide better health services to the people, the Government is strengthening the existing infrastructure by providing modern equipments, specialized services, increasing the strength of the medical and para-medical staff in the medical institutions.
A brief description of various health and family welfare activities carried out in the State during 2017-18 is as under:
i) National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme: During the year 2017-18, (upto December, 2017) 4,13,330 blood slides were examined, out of which 84 slides were found positive and no death was reported.
ii) National Leprosy Eradication Programme: Under this programme the prevalence rate, which was 5.14 per ten thousand in 1995, has been reduced to 0.24 per ten thousand as on December, 2017. During 2017-18, (upto December,2017), 103 new cases of Leprosy have been detected, 107 cases were deleted after completion of treatment and 153 cases of leprosy are under treatment. They are getting MDT from different health institutions free of cost.
iii) Revised National T.B. Control Programme(RNTCP): Under this programme, 1 T.B. Sanatorium, 12 District T.B. Control Cell, 74 T.B. Units and 208 Microscopy Centres, 1 Intermediate Reference Laboratory, 1 State Drug Store, 1 State TB Training Center, 9 Cartridge based Nucleic Acid and Amplification Test Laboratories, 4 District DR-TB Centers and 3 Nodal DR-TB Centers having a provision of 315 beds were functioning in the State. During the year 2017-18 upto 31.12.2017, 14,330 TB cases were detected having symptoms of this disease and sputum tests of 82,824 symptomatic were diagnosed. Himachal Pradesh is one of the State where all the districts have been covered under this project. The achievement of total cases notification rate was 210 per lakh per year and Cure rate of Himachal Pradesh is 89 percent against the targets of 90 percent.
iv) National Programme for Control of Blindness: Under this programme during the year 2017-18 (upto December, 2017), 21,367 cataract operations were performed against the target of 27,500 cataract operations. 20,854 cataract operations were performed with I.O. lenses.
v) National Family Welfare Programme: This programme is being carried out in the State as a part of Reproductive and Child Health Programme, on the basis of community needs assessment approach. Under this approach, grass-root level workers like multipurpose health workers (both male and female) give an estimate of the various family welfare activities required in the area/ population covered by them. Under this programme, 6,265 sterilisations, 11,996 I.U.D. insertions, 27,957 OP Users and 74,703 CC Users were done during 2017-18 (upto December, 2017).
vi) Universal Immunization Programme: This programme is also being implemented in the State as a part of Reproductive Child Health (RCH) programme with an aim to reduce the morbidity and mortality among mothers, children and infants. The vaccine preventable diseases viz. Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertusis, Neo-natal Tetanus, Poliomyelitis and Measles have shown remarkable reduction. The targets and achievements for the year 2017-18 are given in Table 17.1. Like previous years, the Pulse Polio campaigns were also launched in the State during the year 2017-18. The first round of this campaign done on 28.01.2018 and second round will be held on 11.03.2018(Tentative).
vii) Mukhya Mantri State Health Care Scheme: The State Government has started Mukhya Mantri State Health Care Scheme to Ekal Narri, Senior Citizens above 80 years of age, Daily Wages Workers, Part Time Workers, Anganwari Workers/ Helpers, Mid Day Meal Workers, Contractual Employees and Persons with more than 70 percent special ability with effect from 01.03.2016. More than 1.05 lakh Smart cards have been issued under the scheme. A provision of cashless treatment to the tune of `30,000 under Basic Package and `1.75 lakh for Critical Care has been made in case of hospitalization under the scheme. For cancer it is `2.25 lakh and up to 31st December,2017 under the scheme 8,000 patients have availed the cashless treatment of `6.00 crore.
viii) National Rural Health Mission: Under this scheme 95 Health Institutions were identified to provide 24 hours emergency services. Apart from this 688 Rogi Kalyan Samities are also functioning at District Hospital, Civil Hospital Community Health Centers and Primary Health Centers. A sum of `9.91 crore has been distributed to all districts till 31st December, 2017.
ix) National AIDS Control Programme: During the year 2017-18 up to December,2017, 1,40,560 persons screened out of which 391 HIV positive cases were detected.
a) Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC): Total 45 ICTC centres in Himachal Pradesh are providing Counselling and testing services. In the year 2017-18, up to December 2017, out of total tested persons, 42,560 were ANC clients, out of which 27 were diagnosed as HIV positive. Two Mobile ICTC Vans units are also functional.
b) STI/ RTI: Total 20 clinics are providing STI/ RTI services in various districts of Himachal Pradesh. In the year 2017-18, up to December 2017, total 34,878 people have availed the services of these RTI/ STI clinics.
c) Blood Safety: Under blood safety, 15 Blood Banks and 3 Blood Component Separation Units IGMC, Shimla, ZH Mandi and RPGMC Tanda are functioning in the State. During the year 2017-18, up to December, 2017, 308 VBD Camps have been organized in the State. One Mobile Blood Bus with four donor coaches is also functional in State.
d) Anti Retroviral Treatment Programme(ART): State has 3 ART centre at IGMC, Shimla, RH Hamirpur and Dr. RPGMC Tanda, 3 FART and 5 Link ART Centres through these free ART Drugs are being provides to people living with HIV/ AIDS.
e) Targeted Interventions: 18 Targeted Interventions Project are being implemented in the State for High Risk Groups. During the year 2017-18, up to December 2017, total 14,731 people have availed the RTI/STI services. 8,957 High Risk Group were screened out of these 6 HIV positive cases were detected.

The Directorate of Medical Education Training and Research was established with the objective to provide better medical education system and training to Medical and Para Medical and Nursing personnel and also to monitor and coordinate the activities of Medical and Dental services of State.
At present the State has Six Government Medical Colleges Indira Gandhi Medical College Shimla, Dr.Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Tanda, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Government Medical College Nahan, Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba, Dr. Radha Krishnan Government Medical College Hamirpur, Sh. Lal Bahadur Shastri Government Medical College Mandi and one Government Dental College in Shimla are functioning. Besides this, one Medical College and four Dental colleges in private sector are also functional in the State.
During the academic session 2017-18, 139 seats for ANM training course 1,186 seats up for GNM courses, 914 seats for B.Sc. Nursing course, 185 seats for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing courses, and 85 seats for M.Sc. Nursing degree course were filled both in Government and private sectors. Total 650 MBBS seats were filled in Government and Private Sector besides 205 PG seats in various specialties were filled in IGMC Shimla and RPGMC Tanda and also 340 BDS seats and 94 MDS seats were filled in both in Government and Private sector during academic session 2017-18. During the current financial year funds had been released under central sponsored scheme for establishment of new Medical College in existing District Hospitals / Regional Hospitals for civil work and procurement of machinery and equipments/ furniture as per following details The Institution wise major achievements under this Directorate are as follows:-
(a) I.G.M.C., Shimla: Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital now upgraded as Super specialty Institute, is the premier health institute of the State. During current financial year Government had provided funds amounting to `1,400.00 lakh under Centre Sponsored Scheme for capacity development to develop trauma care facilities in Government Hospitals located on National Highways. The Government had approved DPR of `262.00 crore for establishment of Super Specialty block at IGMC Shimla and also approved `1,372.94 lakh for the expansion of existing Cancer Hospital IGMC Shimla. During this financial year the institution had started Generic Drug Store in the I.G.M.C. campus where generic medicines are being made available to the patients free of cost. These Generic medicines are made available through Special outlet called “Jan Aushadhi Stores (JAS)” for General Public. In the premises of IGMC “AMRIT Shop” has also been made functional where branded medicines are being provided to all the patients at reasonable and low cost.
Financial Achievements: During current financial year there is a budget provision of `234.48 crore and the expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is `137.09 crore.
(b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Kangra at Tanda (DRPGMC): Dr.Rajendra Prasad Medical College, Kangra at Tanda is the second Medical College of the State established in October, 1996. The first batch was started in 1999 with an intake capacity of 50 MBBS students which was increased to 100 students w.e.f. 2011. At present 19th Batch is undergoing training in this institution. The Government of India has released sum of `6.08 crore for trauma centre level-I which was earlier proposed as trauma Centre Level-II and `2.56 crore for the establishment of Geriatric Unit. In order to strengthen Nursing school at institute the Government has accorded the approval for the construction of existing GNM School with the cost of `12.55 crore for which the first installment of `3.76 crore has since been released by NHM.
Financial Achievements: During the financial year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `11,859.97 lakh and the expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is `7,826.05 lakh.
(c) Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Government Medical College, Nahan: Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Government Medical College, Nahan Distt. Sirmaur is the third Medical College of the State established with an intake capacity of 100 MBBS students. During this financial year 2nd Batch MBBS students is undergoing training in this institution. The Government had provided `17.74 crore under Centre sponsored scheme for the construction of Medical College and procurement of Machinery and equipment. Funds amounting to `10.00 crore have been utilized for alteration and renovation of existing building of RH Nahan while funds amounting to `20.00 crore have been released to HSCC for starting of construction work of New Medical College.
Financial Achievements: During the financial year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `5,372.03 lakh and the expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is ` 2,206.93 lakh.
(d) Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba: Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba is the fourth Medical College established under centre sponsored scheme with the annual intake of 100 MBBS students and the first Batch has been started from the year 2017. The Government had provided `48.62 crore during current financial year for civil work and for procurement of Machinery, equipments and furnitures. At present level-III Trauma centre has been sanctioned in this Medical College.
Financial Achievements: During current financial year there is a budget provision of ` 61.46 crore and the expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is `10.23 crore.
(e) Dr. Radha Krishnan Government Medical College, Hamirpur: Dr. Radha Krishnan Government Medical College, Hamirpur is fifth Medical College in State established under centre sponsored scheme with annual intake of 100 MBBS students. The Government had released `40.40 crore for civil work of New Medical College during current financial year. The New MBBS Batch with annual intake of 100 students will be started in ensuing academic session.
(f) Sh. Lal Bahadur Shastri Government Medical College, Mandi: The possession of 6th Newly constructed Medical College had been taken over by the State Government from ESIC (Employees State Insurance Corporation Limited) in Financial year 2016-17. The first batch of MBBS students with annual intake of 100 students has been started during academic year 2017-18. The building work of Medical College is to be completed by ESIC and Machinery and equipments amounting to `63.00 crore will be provided by the said corporation to make the institute fully functional during next financial year. The State Governmentt had also provided `2.00 crore for purchase of machinery and equipments.
Financial Achievements: During current financial year there is a budget provision of `23.78 crore and the expenditure upto 31.12.2017 is `12.37 crore.
(g) Dental College and Hospital Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Government Dental College and Hospital, Shimla was established in 1994 with an intake capacity of 20 students per year. From the year 2007-08 the admission of 60 students to BDS course has been started. Besides this the MDS courses in Seven Specialties with annual intake capacity of 17 PGs students have also been started. The main objective of the opening of the Dental College and Hospital was to meet the demand of Dental Doctors with the view to provide better dental health services to the patients in the State.
Financial Achievements: During the financial year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `19.67 crore and the expenditure up to 31.12.2017 is `11.40 crore.

Indian System of Medicines and Homoeopathy plays a vital role in the Health Care System of the State. The separate Department of Ayurveda was established in 1984 and Health Care services are being provided to the general public through 2 Regional Ayurvedic Hospitals, 2 Circle Hospitals, 3 Tribal Hospitals, 17 Ten bedded, 7 Twenty bedded, 1 Thirty bedded, 1 Fifty bedded Ayurvedic Hospitals, 1,175 Ayurvedic health centres, 3 Unani health centres, 14 Homoeopathic Health centres and 4 Amchi clinics.The department has inbuilt system of production of medicines through 3 Ayurvedic Pharmacies, at Jogindernagar (District Mandi), Majra (District Sirmaur) and Paprola (District Kangra). These pharmacies catering to the needs of the Ayurvedic health institutions of the department and also give boost to the employment to local people.
Rajeev Gandhi Government P.G. Ayurvedic College Paprola with an intake capacity of 60 students for B.A.M.S. degree and 39 seats of MD is functioning at Paprola in Kangra district. PG Classes in Kayachikitsa, Shalakya Tantra, Shalya Tantra, Prasuti Tantra, Samhita and Sidhant, Dravya Guna, Rog Nidan, Swasth Vritta, Panchkarm Balrog and Ras Shastra are also there. The department has started the B-Pharmacy course (Ayurveda) at Jogindernagar with in take capacity of 30 students. The department of Ayurveda is also associated with Health Programmes like Malaria, Family welfare, Anaemia free, AIDS, Immunization and Pulse Polio etc. During the current financial year 2017-18, there is a budget provision of `245.12 crore.

Four herbal gardens (District Hamirpur) at Jogindernagar (District Mandi), Neri (District Hamirpur), Dumreda (District Shimla) and Jungle Jhalera (District Bilaspur) are functioning in the State. An annual action plan for 2017-18 under the medicinal plants component of National Ayush Mission amounting to `75.54 lakh has been approved by the Government of India, Ministry of Ayush. Under this cultivation of medicinal Plants will be undertaken by farmers in 7 hectares area. Two small nurseries, one drying shed, one storage godown in public sector and one community based storage godown will also be established.

During the year 2017-18 (upto December, 2017), DTL Jogindernagar has analyzed 491 samples (from Government and Private Pharmacies) and generated a revenue of ` 1.71 lakh.
Development Activities:
(i) Free Camps: To popularized and make people aware of AYUSH treatment, 123 free medical camps have been organized at different places of the State during the year 2016-17 wherein 67,785 patients were diagnosied and treated.
(ii) license: The Department has granted seven new Ayurvedic Drug Manufacturing, six loan and one Homeopathic Drug Manufacturing license.

The Social Justice and Empowerment Department of the State is engaged in socio-economic and educational uplift of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, other backward classes, infirms, special abled, orphans, children, widows, destitutes, poor children and women etc. The following schemes are being implemented under social welfare programme:-
Social Security Pension Scheme:
a) Old Age pension: Old age pension `700 per month is being provided to those proper no mean to livelihood who have attained the age 60 years or above but below 80 years having annual income below `35,000 per year, 80 years and above pensioners are being provided pension `1,250 per month without any income criteria.
b) Special Ability Relief Allowance: Special Ability Relief Allowance `700 per month is being given to those special abled persons who are having at least 40 percent of special ability and whose annual income does not exceed `35,000 per year, to above 70 percent special abled persons is being provided `1,250 per month without any income criteria subject to the condition that applicant should not be in Government Service/ Semi Government Service/ Board/ Corporation and should not be in possession of any kind of pension. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 2,14,608 pensioners under the above schemes. An amount of `178.44 crore have been spent upto 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of ` 225.98 crore.
c) Widow /Deserted/ Ekal Nari Pension: The Widow/ Deserted/ Ekal Nari Pension `700 per month is being provided to those Widow/ Deserted/ Ekal Nari ladies above 45 years of age whose annual income does not exceed `35,000 per year. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 80,688 pensioners. Under the above scheme, an amount of `76.45 crore have been spent upto 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of ` 120.54 crore.
d) Rehabilitation allowance to Lepers: Rehabilitation allowance to leprosy `700 per month is being provided to the patient of leprosy who have been identified by the Health Department irrespective of their age and annual income. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 1,482 pensioners under the above scheme. An amount of `75.79 lakh have been spent upto 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of `1.23 crore.
e) Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension: (IGNOAP): Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension is being provided to the persons who have attained the age 60 years or above and belong to BPL household. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 94,120 pensioners under the above scheme. An amount of `34.83 crore have been spent upto 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of `43.41 crore.
f) Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension (IGNWP): Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension is being provided to the widows between the age group of 40 to 79 years and belongs to BPL household. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 22,020 pensioners under the above scheme. An amount of `7.72 crore have been spent upto 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of `10.55 crore.
g) Indira Gandhi National Special Ability Pension: Indira Gandhi National Special Ability Pension is being provided to the special abled persons between the age group of 18 to 79 years having 80 percent of special ability and belongs to BPL household. During current financial year 2017-18 there is a target of 929 pensioners under the above scheme. An amount of `34.88 lakh have been spent up to 31.12.2017 against the budget provision of `72.00 lakh.
For all the above Central Pension Schemes a sum of `200 per month to 60 years to 79 years of age and `500 per month to 80 years and above old age pensioners is being provided under IGNOAPS by the Government of India. Whereas under IGNWPS and IGNDPS an amount of `300 is being provided by Government of India. However, the remaining amount `500 per month to below 80 years and `750 per month to above 80 years pensioners under IGNOAPS and `400 per month under IGNWPS along with service charges is being borne by the State Government and the budget provision for this purpose has been made under State Old Age and State Widow Pension Schemes, so that social security pensions could be provided at uniform rates to all the pensioners `700 per month below 80 years and `1,250 per month to the pensioners 80 years and above of age. Similarly under IGNDPS, the State Government is providing `950 per month per pensioner along with the service charges from its own resources, so that all the 70 percent and above special abled pensioners get pension at the uniform rate of `1,250 per month. The budget provision for this purpose has been made under the State Special Ability Relief Allowance pension scheme.

The department is also providing funds to the three Corporations via; Himachal Pradesh Minorities Finance and Development Corporation, Himachal Pradesh Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation and Himachal Pradesh Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribe Development Corporation under the head investment for the running of various self employment schemes. There is a budget provision of `9.50 crore for the year 2017-18 and upto 31.12.2017, an amount of `1.72 crore have been released.

Under this programme, the important schemes implemented during 2017-18 are as under:-
i) Award for Inter-caste Marriage: For elimination of the practice of untouchability with Scheduled Castes and non Scheduled Castes, the State Government encourages inter-caste marriages. Under this scheme, an amount of `50,000 per couple is given as incentive money. For inter-caste marriages during 2017-18, a budget provision of `1.56 crore is kept for the purpose and 219 couples have been benefited with an amount of `1.21 crore upto 31.12.2017 against the target of 302 couples.
ii) Housing Subsidy: Under this scheme the members of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other backward classes, minorities, person with special ability, widow/ destitute/ single women are given subsidy of `1,30,000 per family for house construction purposes and for house repair `25,000 to those whose annual income does not exceed from `35,000. During the year 2017-18 an amount of `17.50 crore has been provided in the budget and 1,346 persons were benefited with an amount of `13.51 crore upto 31.12.2017.
iii) Training and Proficiency in Computer Applications and Allied Activities: Under this scheme computer training are provided in the recognized computer courses to candidates belonging to BPL, SC, ST OBC, Minorities, Special Ability, single woman and widow or those whose annual income is less than `2.00 lakh. The department bears the training cost not exceeding `1,350 per month per candidate and `1,500 for special abled candidates balance cost if any is borne by the candidate. During the training a stipend of `1,000 per month is being provided and `1,200 per month is being provided for special abled candidates.
After completion of the training, the candidates are placed for six months in the organization/ offices, so as to gain proficiency in computer applications. During the period of placement `1,500 per month per candidate is being provided and `1,800 per month per candidate for special abled students is being provided. During the year, 2017-18, budget provision of `4.54 crore is kept out of which an amount of `1.98 crore has been spent upto 31.12.2017 and 1,905 trainees were benefited against the target of 2,998 trainees.
iv) Follow up Programme: Under this scheme, `1,300 per beneficiary is being provided for purchase of tools for carpentry, weaving and leather works and `1,800 for purchase of, sewing machine to scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other backward classes whose annual income does not exceed from `35,000 per annum. For the year 2017-18 a budget provision of `1.36 crore was made under this scheme out of which an amount of `88.40 lakh was spent benefiting 4,784 persons upto 31.12.2017 against 7,527 beneficiaries.
v) Compensation to Victims of Atrocities on Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes Families under SCs/STs (POA) Act-1989: Under the rules of the above Act monetary relief is granted to those scheduled castes, scheduled tribes families who become victims of atrocities committed by the member of other communities due to caste consideration, relief amounting to `1.00 lakh to `8.25 lakh is provided to the victims of atrocity, which depends upon the nature of atrocity. During the year 2017-18 against the budget provision of `50.00 lakh an amount of `20.60 lakh was spent upto 31.12.2017, under this scheme thereby benefiting 24 persons.

Department is implementing Comprehensive Integrated Scheme named “ASEEM” (A Scheme for Enabling, Empowering and Mainstreaming of the Specially Abled) for persons with special abilities launched during the year in the month of May, 2017. The components of the scheme along with financial and physical achievement upto 31.12.2017 is as under:-
i) Specially Abled Scholarship: This Scheme is applicable to all categories of special abled students including hearing impaired persons having special ability of 40 percent or above without considering there family income. The rate of scholarship varies from `500-1,750 per month for day scholars and `1,500-3,000 per month for boarders. Against the budget provision of `108.00 lakh upto 31.12.2017 an amount of `82.67 lakh has been spent and benefited 932 students.
ii) Marriage Grant to Individuals Marrying Persons with Special Abilities: To encourage able bodied young men or girls to marry the special abled boy or girl having not less than 40 percent special ability and who have attained the Marriageable age, if both are special abled, marriage grant of `25,000 to those who are special abled with 40 to 69 percent and `50,000 to those who are special abled with more than 70 percent is provided by the State Government. Against the budget provision of `36.00 lakh an amount of `19.66 lakh has been spent upto 31.12.2017, there by benefiting 128 persons.
iii) Awareness Generation and Orientation: Provision has been made to organize block and district level composite camps for representative of NGOs working for persons with special abilities, SHGs and representative of PRIs at grass root level. In these camps medical certificates, aids and applications are provided to persons with special abilities. A part from this all the schemes being run for persons with special abilities are publicized in these camps. There is a budget provision of `7.00 lakh for the year 2017-18 and upto 31.12.2017 under the scheme `7.00 lakh has been spent.
iv) Self Employment: Special abled persons having special ability of 40 percent and above are provided loans by the Himachal Pradesh Minorities Finance and Development Corporation for setting up small ventures. SCs/ OBCs and Minority Affairs Department provides subsidy on projects sanctioned by H.P. Minorities Finance and Development Corporation upto `10,000 or 20 percent of the project cost (whichever is less). During 2017-18 upto 31.12.2017, loans amounting to `1.65 crore has been released by the Himachal Pradesh Minorities Finance and Development Corporation to the 36 persons with special ability. Proposal of subsidy is awaited from Minority Corporation.
v) Skill Enrichment: Vocational rehabilitation training to PWDs through selected ITIs is provided in identified trades. Training is free of cost and stipend `1,000 per month is paid by the department. Budget provision of `10.00 lakh has been provided under the scheme. During the current financial year, 45 special abled children have been sponsored for training. Proposal is awaited from Technical Education.
vi) Scheme of Awards: Provision of incentives to best performing special abled individuals and private employers providing employment to maximum special abled in their organization has been made. Best performing individuals are to be given cash award of `10,000 each. Best private employer is to be provided cash incentive of `5,000.
vii) Institutions of Children with Special Needs: Two institutions at Dhalli and Sundernagar have been set up in the State for providing education and vocational rehabilitation services to visually and hearing impaired children. In the “Institution for Children with Special Abilities” Sundernagar 14 Visually and 98 Hearing impaired girls have been enrolled. Besides, 8 Visually Impaired and 3 Hearing Impaired Girls are taking training in special ITI in Sundernagar. To whom all boarding, lodging and medical facilities are being provided by the department. For running and maintenance of this Institution against the budget provision of `58.52 lakh an expenditure of ` 41.25 lakh has been incurred upto 31.12.2017. Besides this, an amount of `75.06 lakh has been provided to DWO Mandi for running and Maintenance of ICSA Sundernagar under ICPS.
For the institution run by the HPCCW at Dhalli (Shimla) and Dari (Kangra) school an amount of `47.35 lakh has been released by the department against the budget provision of `80.00 lakh. In addition to this, State Government is providing grant and free boarding, lodging and medical facilities to the inmates of the Prem Ashram Una, Astha Welfare Society, Nahan, Paradise Children care Centre, Chuwari, Adrash Education Society Kalath, Kullu and Udaan Respite care Centre, New Shimla to meet out expenditure on boarding, lodging and education of 50 mentally retarded children and 20 mentally retarded male adult, 30 mentally retarded adult male and female (10 female and 20 male), 60 mentally retarded adult females and 15 mentally retarded children has been provided `4,500 per inmate, per month respectively. A budget provision of `125.00 lakh have been provided and an amount of `33.66 lakh has been spent upto 31.12.2017.
viii) Sepcial ability Rehabilitation Centres (DRCs): Two Special ability Rehabilitation Centres have been set up at Hamirpur and Dharamshala under NPRPD. These centres are being run through DRDA Hamirpur and Indian Red Cross Society, Dharamshala respectively. During the year 2017-18 an amount of `15.00 lakh has been provided under the scheme.

The Scheduled Castes in this Pradesh are not concentrated into specific regions but are widely dispersed and would be benefited equally as rest of the population. Accordingly, approach to economic development in the case of Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan is not area based as the case with the Tribal Sub-Plan. The district of Bilaspur, Kullu, Mandi, Solan, Shimla and Sirmaur are the predominantly Scheduled Castes population districts where Scheduled Castes concentration is above the State average. These six districts taken together account for 61.09 percent of the Scheduled Castes population in the state.
For making Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan need based and effective the Single Line System for Plan formulation and monitoring has been introduced whereby funds are allocated to each district based on fixed parameters which are non-divertible from one district to another district and plans are prepared at district level for each district under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner and in consultation with the Heads of the Districts/ Regional Offices of the implementing department.
The various programmes for the welfare of Scheduled Castes are being implemented effectively. Although the Scheduled Castes communities are deriving benefits under the normal Plan as well as Tribal Sub-Plan, yet in order to provide special coverage under individual beneficiary programmes and development of infrastructure in Scheduled Castes concentrated villages, 25.19 percent of the total State Plan allocation is earmarked for Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan. The main emphasis of the State Government is to identify more and more realistic schemes, which may generate sizeable income and employment for the Scheduled Castes families.
A separate Sub Major Head “789” has been created for Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan and a separate demand (Demand No. 32) has also been created. Such an arrangement is very helpful in diverting funds from one scheme to another in the same major head and from one major head to another to ensure 100 percent expenditure under SCSP. During the year 2017-18 a sum of `1,435.83 crore are being spent under Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan for the welfare of Scheduled Castes in the state and `1,586.97 crore has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
The District Level Review and Implementation Committee has been constituted at district level under the Chairmanship of Minister of the district and Deputy Commissioner as its Vice-Chairman. The Chairman of the Zila Parishad and all the Chairpersons of BDCs alongwith other prominent local persons have been nominated as non-official members and all district level officers concerned with SCSP as official members to review, formulation and implementation of Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan. The Chief Secretary to the Government of Himachal Pradesh holds quarterly review meeting with the Administrative Secretaries at the State level. Besides this, a High Powered Coordination and Review Committee has been constituted under the Chairmanship of the Hon‟ble Chief Minister, which also review the performance of Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan once in a year. Point No. 10(a) of 20 Point Programme.
There are 95,772 SC families in the State who have been found to be living below poverty line according to the survey conducted by the Rural Development department during the year 2007. During the year 2016-17, 47,633 SC families were benefitted against the target of 37,846 SC families. For the year 2017-18 there is a target of 2,038 families has been proposed in addition to this Post Metric Scholarship is to be provided to SC students under the non targeted scheme.

a) Mukhymantri Bal Udhar Yojna: State Government is implementing Mukhya Mantri Bal Udhar Yojna in the State. The scheme is providing free boarding, lodging, clothing, medical, career counselling and educational facilities to the children in need of care, protection and rehabilitation. The Expenditure on getting higher education (vocational and academic) from any Government run institution within the country, even after the children who have left the Children Homes, is also borne by the State Government. Benefit of the scheme is extended to all children staying in Government/ NGOs run Children Homes registered under Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. Presently, 40 Children Homes/ 2 Observation Homecum-Special, Home cum place of safety are being run in the State. Presently, 1,484 children are living in these homes. Under the scheme, during current financial year, against the budget provision of `10.11 crore, an expenditure of `9.08 crore has been incurred upto December, 2017.
b) Bal/Balika Surksha Yojna and Foster Care Programme Bal/ Balika Suraksha Yojna and Foster Care Programme are being implemented in the State with a view to look after and maintain the orphan/ helpless children in congenial family environment: Bal Balika Suraksha Yojna/ Foster Care Programme an amount of `2,300 per child per month is sanctioned. Out of which `2,000 are sanctioned in favour of foster parents and `300 per child per month, on account of additional assistance from the State Government, are sanctioned in favour of child which are deposited in her/ his bank account or post office account to be matured and drawn by the child after attaining the age of 18 years. Under these schemes, during current financial year, against the budget provision of `1.88 crore, an expenditure of `1.09 crore has been incurred upto December, 2017.
c) Integrated Child Protection Scheme: Integrated Child Protection Scheme is to contribute for the improvement in the well being of children in difficult circumstances, as well as to the reduction of vulnerability to situations and actions that lead to abuse neglect exploitation, abandonment and separation children from parents. Three shelters have been set up at Baldeyan(Shimla), Solan and Dharamshala for providing temporary shelter to the children. Further, for implementation of JJ Act in all Districts, Juvenile Justice Boards, Child Welfare Committees and District Level Advisory Boards have been set up in the State.
Child Protection Units have been set up in the all the districts. Childline service bearing phone no. 1098 have been set up in the seven districts i.e. Shimla, Kullu, Kangra, Solan, Mandi, Chamba and Sirmaur under the scheme. To promote adoption of children, State Adoption Agency has been set up. During the current financial year the total allocation of budget from centre is `18.47 crore and state share is `1.38 crore out of which `14.45 crore has been incurred upto 31.12.2017.
d) Integrated Child Development Services: Integrated Child Development Services” (ICDS) programme, is being implemented in all Developmental Blocks of the State through 78 ICDS projects. Services are being provided to children and pregnant/ lactating mothers through 18,386 Anganwari Centres and 539 Mini Anganwari Centres in the State. The department is providing Supplementary Nutrition, Nutrition and Health Education, Immunization, Health check-ups Referral Services and Non Formal Pre-School Education is being implemented on 90:10 (Centre:State) basis. There is a budget provision of `21,723.00 lakh for the year 2017-18, out of which State Share is `2,172.00 lakh and Central Share is `19,551.00 lakh, an amount of `13,236.66 lakh has been spent upto December, 2017 out of which State Share is `874.69 lakh and Centre Share is `12,361.96 lakh. Monthly honorarium of `3,000, `1,500 and `2,250 has been fixed by the Government of India for Anganwari Workers, Helpers and Mini Anganwari Workers respectively. 10 percent of the honorarium is borne by the State Government and 90 percent by the Centre Government. State Government is also paying `1,450, `600 and `750 per month to Anganwari Worker, Anganwari Helper and Mini Anganwari Worker per month in addition to its 10 percent share.
e) Supplementary Nutrition Programme: Under this programme, supplementary nutrition is provided in Anganwari Centres to children, pregnant/ lactating mothers and BPL adolescent girls. The nutrition is provided for 300 days in a year. Rates has been fixed (per beneficiary per day) children `6, pregnant/ lactating woman `7, adolescent girls `5 and severely malnourished children `9. Expenditure under this programme is borne by the Central and State Governments on 90:10 basis. During the current financial year, there is a budget provision as State share of `6.80 crore and `61.21 crore have been received as Grant-inaid from Government of India and upto December, 2017, `5.10 crore State share and `39.08 crore central share have been utilized under this scheme. 4,44,738 children and 99,452 pregnant/ lactating mothers have been benefited.

Various schemes are being implemented for the welfare of women in the Pradesh. The major schemes are as under:
a) Woman State Home Mashobra: The main purpose of the scheme is to provide free shelter, food, clothing, education health and medicines, counselling and vocational training to the young girls, widows, deserted, destitute and women who are in moral danger. At present 27 inmates are living in State Home, Mashobra. For rehabilitation of such women after leaving State Home, financial assistance upto `20,000 per woman is provided. In case of marriage, assistance of `51,000 also provided to women. Against the budget provision of `215.94 lakh during the financial year upto December,2017 an amount of `37.43 lakh has been spent on running/ maintenance of State Home.
b) Mukhya Mantri Kanyadaan Yojna: Under this programme marriage grant of `40,000 is being given to the guardians of the destitute girls for their marriages provided their annual income does not exceed `35,000. During 2017-18, a budget provision of `482.05 lakh has been kept for this purpose out of which an amount of `270.75 lakh has been spent and 691 beneficiaries were covered upto December, 2017.
c) Self Employment assistance for Women: Under this scheme `5,000 are provided to the women having annual income less than `35,000 for carrying income generating activities. A budget provision of `8.02 lakh has been made. 81 women have been benefited under the scheme and an amount of `4.05 lakh has been spent upto December, 2017.
d) Widow Re-marriage Scheme: The main objective of the scheme is to help in rehabilitation of widow after re-marriage. Under this scheme an amount of `50,000 as grant, is provided to the couple. During the year 2017-18, a budget provision of ` 93.90 lakh is kept under this scheme against which `38.00 lakh has been given to 76 such couples upto December, 2017.
e) Mother Teressa Asahay Matri Sambal Yojna: The aim of this scheme is to provide assistance of `3,000 per child per annum to the destitute women belonging to the BPL families or having income less than ` 35,000 for the maintenance of their children till they attain the age of 18 years. The assistance will be provided only for two children. Budgetary Provision for this scheme for the year 2017-18 is `9.00 crore, out of which `4.10 crore has been utilized upto December,2017 and 16,521 children have been benefited.
f) Mata Shabri Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojna: Main objective of this scheme is to provide relief from drudgery to women belonging to BPL families or those SC/ ST families whose annual income is less than `35,000 by providing gas connections. Under the scheme, 50 percent subsidy, subject to a maximum of `1,300 is given to eligible women for purchase of gas connection. As per schematic norms every year 75, SC/ ST women in each assembly constituency should be benefited and total 5,100 women in the State are benefited. For the year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `66.00 lakh. Expenditure nil due to non availability of beneficiaries.
g) Vishesh Mahila Utthan Yojna: State Government has started Vishesh Mahila Utthan Yojna as 100 percent State Plan Scheme for training and rehabilitation of women in moral danger in the State. There is a provision to provide stipend `3,000 per month per trainee, training cost `25 per trainee per hour and test fee `800 per trainee through the department of Women and Child Development. In the current year, there is a budget provision of `1.21 crore out of which an amount of `39.49 lakh has been spent upto December, 2017.
h) Financial Assistance and Support Services to Victims of Rape Scheme 2012: This scheme has been notified on 22.09.2012 as 100 percent State Plan Scheme. The scheme aims to provide financial assistance and support services such as counselling, medical aid, legal assistance, education and vocational training depending upon the needs of rape victims. An affected woman shall be entitled to financial assistance and restorative support/ services adding upto a maximum amount of `75,000. Additional assistance of `25,000 can also be given in special cases i.e. in case of rape of minors. During the current financial year 2017-18, there is a budget provision of `1.29 crore out of which an amount of `64.50 lakh has been spent upto December, 2017.
i) Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme: This scheme has been launched on 22.01.2015 in 100 districts of India including Una district of Himachal Pradesh. In the year 2016-17 the scheme has been started in Kangra and Hamirpur districts of Himachal Pradesh with the objective of preventing gender biased sex selective elimination, ensuring survival, protection and education of the girl child. This scheme is an initiative to arrest and reverse the trend of an adverse and declining child sex ratio. Through this process, efforts are made to create awareness among masses about the adverse effects of declining sex ratio. In Una district last two and half years there is an improvement in Child Sex Ratio.

With a view to change negative family and community attitude towards the girl child at birth and to improve enrolment and retention of girl children in schools, Beti Hai Anmol scheme is being implemented in the State w.e.f. 05.07.2010. Under this scheme Post Birth Grant of `10,000 is provided to two girls by way depositing in bank/ post office only belonging to BPL families and scholarships are provided from 1st class to graduation level for their education. The State Government has increased the scholarship rates w.e.f. 23.07.2015. New rates of scholarships ranging from `450 to `5,000 per annum. For the year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `999.00 lakh, and an amount of `653.00 lakh has been spent upto 31.12. 2017 and 16,908 girls have been benefited.

Kishori Shakti Yojna (KSY) is a central sponsored scheme for empowerment of the Adolescent Girls (AGs) in the age group of 11-18 years. The main objectives of the scheme are to improve their nutrition and health status, spread awareness among them about health, hygiene, nutrition, Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health (ARSH) and family and child care, upgrade their home - based skills, life skills and vocational skills. The scheme was 100 percent central sponsored scheme upto financial year 2014-15 which has been revised to 90:10 between the centre and the State rom financial year 2015-16. The scheme is functioning in 8 Districts of the State viz. Shimla, Sirmaur, Kinnaur, Mandi, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Una and Lahaul-Spiti. As per schematic norms there is a provision of `1.10 lakh per project per annum under non nutrition component of the scheme. During the current financial year `17.12 lakh have been utilized upto December,2017. Nutrition was provided to 36,581 adolescent girls in 8 KSY Districts `5.00 per adolescent girls per day upto 3rd quarter of 2017-18. On 25.11.2017 Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India has limited the Kishori Shakti Yojna to out of school girls in the age group of 11-14 years and its phasing out with expansion of the scheme for adolescent girls. Scheme for adolescent girls (SAG) has been extended in Shimla and Hamirpur district replacing Kishori Shakti Yojna on 08.12.2017. Thus, Kishori Shakti Yojna will be operational in six Districts of Himachal Pradesh. Nutrition rates have also been revised by Government of India from `5.00 to `9.50 per day per Adolescent Girl.

Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG) is a central sponsored scheme for empowerment of the Adolescent Girls (11-18 years). The main objectives of the scheme are to improve their nutrition and health status, spread awareness among them about health, hygiene, nutrition Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health (ARSH) and family and child care, upgrade their home- based skills, life skills and vocational skills. The cost sharing ratio of nutrition component of the scheme was 50:50 and non-nutrition component was 100 percent central share upto financial year 2014-15 which has now been revised to 90:10 between the Centre and the State from financial year 2015-16. The scheme is functioning in 4 Districts of the State viz. Solan, Kullu, Kangra and Chamba. Nutrition and Non Nutrition are two major components of the scheme. Under Non Nutrition component there is a provision of `3.80 lakh per project per annum. Under Nutrition component Supplementary Nutrition `5 per day per Adolescent Girl was provided. Under non-nutrition component during the year 2017-18, total available amount `86.88 lakh and an amount of `27.32 lakh has been utilized. Under nutrition component during 2017-18 total available amount `507.80 lakh and an amount of `382.91 lakh has been utilized upto December, 2017. During the current financial year upto 31.12.2017, the coverage of beneficiaries under various non-nutrition component are as, supplementary nutrition 1,01,256, health and nutrition education to 1,01,725, life skill education to 8,400, guidance on accessing public services to 4,055 and vocational training to 402 Adolescent Girls.

Pradhan Mantri Matri Vandana Yojna: Maternity Benefit Programme was being implemented in Hamirpur district on pilot basis. Main objective of the scheme was to improve the health and nutrition status of pregnant and lactating women of 19 years and above and their young infants. The scheme was also aims to provide partial compensation for the wages loss so that the women are not under compulsion to work till the last stage of pregnancy. This scheme was implemented on 90:10 ratio between Centre and State. Under this scheme monetary assistance of `6,000 per beneficiary was provided in two instalments i.e. first instalment during last trimester of pregnancy and second after three months of delivery. Total amount of `49.64 lakh has been utilized upto 31.05.2017. The scheme has been replaced by Pradhan Mantri Matri Vandana Yojna (PMMVY) and extended to all districts of the State. The scheme is effective from 01.01.2017.
Main objectives of the scheme are:
i) Providing partial compensation for the wage loss in terms of cash incentives so that the women can take adequate rest before and after delivery of the first living child.
ii) The cash incentive provided would lead to improved health seeking behaviour amongst the pregnant women and lactating mothers. Under PMMVY, a cash incentive of ` 5,000 would be provided directly in the account of Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers for first living child subject to fulfilling specific conditions relating to maternal and child health.

One Stop Centre is a Central Sponsored Scheme. The main objective of the scheme are to provide integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence, both in private and public spaces under one roof; and to facilitate immediate, emergency and non-emergency access to a range of services including medical, legal, psychological and counselling support under one roof to fight against any forms of violence against women. In Himachal Pradesh One Stop Centre has been setup at Solan on 26.09.2017 in the premises of Red Cross Building, Zonal Hospital Solan. There is a budgetary provision of `30.01 lakh under recurring and `13.41 lakh under Non-recurring component. Upto December,2017 an amount of `15.00 lakh has been spent and total 12 women have been facilitated under One Stop Centre.

The main objective of the Rural Development Department is to implement the poverty alleviation, employment generation and area development programmes in the rural areas of the State. The following State and Centrally sponsored developmental schemes and programmes are being implemented in the state.

The Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) has been replaced by the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) w.e.f 01.04.2013 which is being implemented in a phased manner in 12 blocks/ districts of the State. The identified Blocks are Kandaghat, Basantpur, Mandi Sadar, Nurpur Haroli, Ghumarwin, Tissa, Bhoranj, Nichar, Kullu, Lahaul at Kelong and Ponta Sahib as pilot blocks in First Phase. Apart from above under NRLM for generation of Self Employment activities like Credit mobilization formation of women SHGs, Capacity Building and Institution Buildings are proposed for implementation. For the current financial year annual action plan for `11.04 crore has been approved by the Government of India for implementation of NRLM activities. Total 3,280 women SHGs are proposed for assistance by providing credit of `40.00 crore. Under NRLM 4 Districts viz. Shimla, Mandi Kangra and Una have been undertaken for the implementation of additional interest subvention where interest applicable on credit disbursed to Women Self Help Group (WSHG) would be 4 percent and in rest of the 8 Districts rate of interest on credit mobilization has been fixed 7 percent per annum. But the aforesaid interest rates would be applicable only to those WSHGs who are prompt in repayment of loans within the fixed timeline. The district-wise Physical and Financial targets and Achievement made under NRLM up to 31.12.2017 is as under:

Aajeevika Skills is the skill and placement initiative of the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India (MoRD). It evolved out of the need to diversify incomes of the rural poor and to cater the occupational aspirations of their youth. Aajeevika skills has its origins in the special projects component of the swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar yojana (SGSY). Besides helping to reduce poverty, it rides on the hopes and aspirations for a better quality of life in large sections of the rural poor. This can result in a “demographic dividend” for India if the capabilities of the youth are also developed.

As per guidelines issued by the Government of India the PIAs have to get themselves registered online with Government of India wherein selection itself is inbuilt. Prior to 2016-17 the State of Himachal Pradesh was yearly Plan State and none of the projects has been sanctioned by the Government of India as YP State for Himachal Pradesh. During the year 2016-17 the Government of India has declared the Himachal Pradesj as AAP State and the action plan 2017-19 (for 3 years) was submitted to Government of India on 13.07.2016 with a target of 15,000 youth to be trained with in a period of 3 year in different trades based on demand and market for which details are as under:-

The trades like Green Skills, Health Care, Automotive, Electronics, Banking Retail, Hospitality, Life Science, Constructions, Food Processing, ICT, Travel and Tourism, Iron Steel are under the scheme. Total cost of plan is `133.60 crore and the PIAs will have give assured wage employment to at least 75 percent of total trained rural poor youth. The plan has finally been approved by the GOI on 18.07.2016. The HPSRLM has engaged HPKVN as TSA and the TSA has completed the screening task of 50 proposals received in HPSRLM. Now the proposals which have gone through and passed the screening were placed before the PACDDU-GKY is a Flagship Programme under NRLM. The main focus of this scheme is to train rural youth between age limit of 15-35 years, so that they can get minimum monthly wage. Presently there are 12 PIA working in H.P. These PIAS will train 10,400 rural youth by 2019. Total Centre to be opened 35 and operational centre 9 in Himachal Pradesh.

With the objectives to develop wastelands/ degraded lands, drought prone and desert area the department is implementing Integrated Wasteland Development Programme (IWDP), Draught Prone Area Programme (DPAP) and Desert Development Programme (DDP) and Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) in the state as per guidelines of Government of India. Since inception of the programme, Government of India, Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned 67 projects (869 Micro Watersheds) with a total cost of `254.12 crore for the treatment of 4,52,311 hectare of land under IWDP, 412 Micro Watersheds with a total cost of `116.50 crore for the treatment of 2,05,833 hectare of land under DPAP and 552 Micro Watersheds Projects with a cost of `159.20 crore for the treatment of 2,36,770 hectare of land under DDP. The expenditure under IWDP is `245.44 crore, DPAP is `114.19 crore and under DDP is `112.40 crore upto March, 2017. Under Integrated Watershed Management Progamme (IWMP) now PMKSY(WDC) the Government of India has sanctioned 163 projects w.e.f. 2009-10 to 2014-15 with a total cost of `1,259.96 crore for treatment of 8,39,972 hectare rainfed area in all districts of the State and funds to the tune of `283.59 crore (i.e 90 percent GoI and 10 percent State Government) has been released to the concerned districts out of which `258.83 crore has been utilized by treating 1,16,173 hectare .up to December, 2017.

The PMAY-G aims to provide a pucca house with basic amenities to all houseless households and households living in kutcha and dilapidated house by 2022. The minimum unit size enhanced from the existing 20 Sq. mt. to 25 Sq. mt. including a dedicated area for hygienic cooking. The unit assistance has also been increased from `75,000 to `1.30 lakh in hilly states and difficult areas. The cost of unit (house) is to be shared between central and state government in the ratio of 90:10 for hilly states. The identification of beneficiaries is to be done using SECC-2011 data. The total financial allocation for the state during current financial year 2017-18 is for `3,394.87 lakh out of which central allocation is of `3,055.39 lakh and state allocation is for `339.49 lakh. There is a physical target of 2,511 houses for the state during current financial year. As on 12.01.2018 a total of 1,535 beneficiaries have been registered on MIS.

Under mentioned all housing schemes are run by State Government.
i) Rajiv Awaas Yojana Rajiv Awaas Yojana (RAY): is being implemented on the analogy of PMAY(G). The unit cost under this scheme from current financial year 2017-18 has also been hiked on an amount of `1.30 lakh on the analogy of PMAY(G). The State Government keeping in view the wider interest of the people of the State has fixed the base of BPL survey 2003 for identification and selection of beneficiaries under this scheme. There is a provision of `11.00 crore available under the scheme with which 846 houses are being constructed in the State during current financial year 2017-18.
ii) Mukhaya Mantri Awaas Yojana (MMAY): The State Government has announced this scheme in the budget of 2016-17. The objective of the scheme is to provide financial assistance for construction of the houses of General category BPLs in the State. There is a budget provision of `30.00 crore with which 2,307 houses of general category BPLs are being constructed during current financial year. The unit cost has also been enhanced to `1.30 lakh under this scheme on the analogy of PMAY(G).
iii) Rajiv Awaas Repair Yojana (RARY): This scheme was also for general category BPLs during 2015-16 and 2016-17 for repair of their house. Under the scheme financial assistance of `25,000 per unit is being provided to the beneficiaries belonging to all categories during financial year 2017-18. There is a budget provision of `3.00 crore with which 1200 houses pertaining to all Categories are being repaired during current financial year 2017-18.

The main objective of the SAGY is to trigger processes which leads to holistic development of the identified Gram Panchayats. To improve the standard of living and quality of life of all sections of the population through improved basic amenities, higher productivity, enhanced human development better livelihood opportunities reduced disparities, access to rights and entitlements wider social mobilization and enriched social capital. In Himachal Pradesh, all the MPs have chosen the Gram Panchayats in the first phase and three MPs in second phase, the detail of which is given below.

The Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission is also a Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Under the Ist and 2nd phase 3 clusters of Hinner in Kandaghat Block, Sangla in Kalpa block and Aut in Mandi Sadar were allocated to the State. Under this scheme the Government of India, Ministry of Rural Development has sanctioned `5,142.08 crore to the State out of which the State has received `22.50 crore under CGF as 1st and 2nd installment. The entire amount has been released to the concerned districts for execution of works. Under 3rd phase 3 more Clusters have been allocated to the State during 2017-18. These are Moorang in Kinnaur District, Sihunta in Chamba District and Ghannahatti in Shimla District. The process of preparation of ICAPs is underway in these clusters. The purpose of the scheme is to develop identified clusters on the analogy of urban areas and is to provide urban amenities in these areas.

This scheme covers all women living below the poverty line within the age group of 10-75 years. The policy provides relief to family members/insured women in case of their death or disablement arising due to any kind of accident, surgical operations like sterilization, mishap at the time of child birth/delivery drowning, washing away in floods, landslide, insect bite and the scheme also gives benefit to married women in case of accidental death of her husband. The compensation amount under the scheme has been hiked as under from 1.04.2017:-
i) Death `2.00 lakh
ii) Permanent total disability `2.00 lakh.
iii) Loss of one limb and one eyes or both eyes and both limbs `2.00 lakh.
iv) Loss of one limb/one ear `1.00 lakh.
v) In case of death of husband ` 2.00 lakh.

The Government of India has launched the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) on 02.10.2014 to achieve the goal of Swachh Bharat by 2019. The main objectives of the programme are as under:-
i) Bring about an improvement in the general quality of life in the rural areas, by promoting cleanliness hygiene and eliminating open defecation.
ii) Accelerate sanitation coverage in rural areas to achieve the vision of Swachh Bharat by 02.10.2019.
iii) Motivate communities and panchayati Raj institutions to adopt sustainable sanitation practices and facilities through awareness creation and health education.
iv) Encourage cost effect and appropriate technologies for ecologically safe and sustainable Sanitation.
v) Develop where required community managed sanitation system focusing on scientific solid and liquid waste management systems for overall cleanliness in the rural areas.
The District-wise physical progress under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin up to December, 2017 is as under:-

Maharishi Valmiki Sampooran Swachhata Puruskar (MVSSP): Maharishi Valmiki Sampooran Swachhta Purskaar was started in the Year 2007-08. To boost the Sanitation Campaign in Himachal Pardesh a competition based State Reward Scheme i.e. Maharishi Valmiki Sampooran Swachhta Purskaar is being implemented Under which winner ODF GPs (total 97 GPs) are rewarded at the State level award distribution function every year. The incentive pattern under this scheme is as under:-
1) Block level cleanest GP `1.00 lakh
2) District level cleanest GP `3.00 lakh (2GP can get prize if district has more than 300 GP).
3) Division level cleanest GP `5.00 lakh
4) State level cleanest GP `10.00 lakh
School Sanitation Reward Scheme: This scheme was launched during the year 2008-2009 for the cleanest Government Primary and Middle Schools at District and Block level. During the year 2011-12 High/ Higher Secondary schools have also been included in competition criteria. The prizes under the scheme are being given during the Himachal Day function on 15th April every year. This reward scheme recognizes those schools which have demonstrated outstanding achievement in school sanitation and hygiene education and an amount of `88.20 lakh is given as reward money to the winner schools under this scheme.
Mahila- Mandal Protsahan Yojna: Since Year 2008 Mahila Mandal Protshahan Yojana a scheme to award active Mahila Mandal has been suitable restricted to incorporate the aims and objectives of sanitation in their ground level working. This scheme has been totally linked with the sanitation programme and a sum of `1.31 crore has been allocated during the year 2017-18 to provide incentives to Mahila Mandals who have performed good work under the Sanitation in their village/ward and Gram Panchayat area as per scheme‟s guidelines. Each block selects 6 No. of Mahila Mandal on the basis of 1st to 6th Position which are awarded : In addition to first six selected Mahila Mandals, the Government is of the view that other Mahila Mandals which have contributed for creating awareness among the villagers regarding sanitation campaign will also be given some incentive to boost them for maintain sustainable activities under sanitation. Each block will select Mahila Mandals on the following criteria and an amount of `8,000 will be given to each Mahila Mandals.
Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme(MGNREGS): The Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act was notified by the Government of India on September, 2005 and was made effective w.e.f. 2.02.2006. In the 1st Phase, the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) was introduced in District Chamba and Sirmaur on 2nd February, 2006. In second phase NREGS was started in District Kangra and Mandi w.e.f. 1.04.2007. Now in the third phase all the remaining 8 district of the State have been covered under the scheme w.e.f. 1.04.2008. During the year 2017-18 Central share amount to `474.65 crore and State Share amounting to `12.47 crore have been credited in the State Employment Guarantee Fund account. The funds amounting to `408.16 crore have been utilized (upto 09-01-2018) and `1.57 crore Mandays have been generated by providing Employment to 4,32,005 households.

Ministry of Housing, Government of Himachal Pradesh through Housing and Urban Development Authority (HIMUDA) is constructing Houses, Flats and developing plots of various categories, so as to meet the housing demand of the people of various income groups. 20.2 There is an outlay of `137.10 crore for the current financial year 2017-18 and an expenditure of `87.38 crore was incurred up to December,2017. During this year there is a target to construct 48 flats and 141 plots were developed.

HIMUDA has completed 44 buildings under deposit works. HIMUDA is executing deposit works of various department such as Social Justice and Empowerment, Prison, Police, Youth Services and Sports, Animal Husbandry, Education, Fisheries, I.T. Departments, Himachal Pradesh Bus Stands Management and Development Authority, Urban Local Bodies, Panchayati Raj, and Department of Ayurveda.
Construction work of Housing colonies at Theog, Flowerdale, Sanjauli, Mandhala Parwanoo, Jurja (Nahan) and Bhatolikhurd (Baddi) are in progress and the colonies at Chhabgroti, Flowerdale, and Parwanoo have been completed. At present HIMUDA has Land bank of 45 bighas at Dharampur Solan, 243 bighas of land near Jathiadevi in Shimla District and 72 bighas of land at Rajwari near Sundernagar in Mandi District and 570 bighas of land at sohala District Sirmaur H.P. The process for land acquisition in various places is also in progress.
New housing Schemes have also been taken in hand in the financial year 2017-18 at Sheel (Solan), Moginand-II, Trilokpur (Nahan) and commercial complex near petrol pump Vikas Nagar Shimla. Under JNNURM, HIMUDA has Constructed 176 flats (Ashiana-II) Under BSUP at Dhalli Shimla and under IHSDP 72 flats at Hamirpur, 192 flats at Parwanoo and 128 flats at Nalagarh.
HIMUDA has approved following policies/ schemes:-
i) Policy for land owners becoming partner in development of Housing colonies in the State and signed the MoU with Ashoka Alloys (P) Limited in Sirmaur District under this scheme.
ii) Scheme for the allotment of Houses/Flats/Plots in various colonies established by HIMUDA at “First come First Serve” basis after freezing cost for disposing of the unsold units.
HIMUDA has constructed its Circle office (North) building in Dharamshala as a pilot project which is in latest EPS Technology. The building has been constructed within a period of 4 months for which HIMUDA has received appreciation award. HIMUDA is also constructing superintending Engineer (N) and Executive Engineers residences at Rakkar Dharamshala, using the same technology.
To reduce human interface in order to bring more transparency, HIMUDA has moved towards the e-governance and has digitalized the record in Head office and installed the tally Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) for accounting.

Consequent upon the 74th Constitutional amendment, the rights, powers and activities of the urban local bodies have increased manifold. There are 54 urban local bodies in Himachal Pradesh including Shimla and Dharamshala Municipal Corporation. The Government is providing grant-in-aid every year to these local bodies to enable them to provide civic amenities to the general public. As per the report of State Finance Commission during the year 2017-18 a sum of `109.36 crore has been released to the ULBs. This includes developmental grant and gap filling grant between income and expenditure.
Maintenance of Roads in Municipal Areas: About 1,416 Kms. roads/ paths/ streets and drains are being maintained by 54 urban local bodies and `6.00 crore stands released to the Urban Local Bodies in proportionate to length of roads/street/path being maintained by the urban local bodies during 2017-18.

The main objective of NULM is to reduce poverty among the urban poor through the promotion of diversified and gainful self employment and skill wage employment opportunities, resulting in an appreciable improvement in their livelihood on a sustainable basis, through building strong grass roots level institutions of the poor. This scheme has following main components:-
i) Employment through skill training and placement.
ii) Social Mobilisation and Institution Development.
iii) Capacity Building and Training.
iv) Self Employment Programme.
v) Shelter for homeless.
vi) Support to Urban street Vendors.
vii) Innovative and special Projects. For the financial year 2017-18, there is budget provision of `5.58 crore as centre share and ` 0.63 crore as State Share for the implementation of this scheme, out of which `3.02 crore as Centre Share and `0.49 crore as State Share stands released. Under this scheme 260 Self Help Groups (SHGs) have been formed. 160 beneficiaries were provided skill training under this scheme and 33 candidates have been provided placement. 153 individuals, 1 group and 66 SHGs were provided loan assistance on subsidised interest for setting up their micro enterprises. 2,197 street vendors were surveyed and being provided identity cards.

There is a budget provision of `41.00 crore for sewerage schemes and maintenance during the financial year 2017-18 which stands already released. Since, this scheme is being executed by the I&PH Department therefore the funds have been drawn and placed at the disposal of the I and PH Department through ULBs.

Shimla and Kullu have been included under this Mission, During the current financial year 2017-18 there is a budget provision of `45.00 crore as Centre Share and `5.00 crore as State Share under this scheme. A sum of `21.00 crore as centre share and `2.33 crore as state share stand released for the implementation of this scheme.

The Smart City Mission has been launched in June, 2015. Municipal Corporation Dharamshala has been approved by Government of India under the mission with a project cost of `2,109.69 crore. Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for Dharamshala Smart City Ltd. has been registered under company Act, 2013. During the financial year 2017-18 Municipal Corporation, Shimla has also been selected under Smart City Mission by Government of India with a project cost of `2,905.97 crore. The Government of Himachal Pradesh has notified the SPV for the same. During the current financial year 2017-18, there is a budget provision `70.00 crore as Centre share and `9.00 crore as State share under this mission. Funds are yet to be released by the Government of India.

Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) is a Flagship Programme of Government of India and being implemented in all 4,041 statutory towns by Ministry of Housing Affairs, Government of India. The main aim of Swachh Bharat Mission is to make cities/towns open defecation free and provide a healthy and liveable environment to all. Following actions/ progress has been made under the Missions:-
1) Funds disbursed to ULBs for construction of individual household toilets and Community/ Public Toilets for providing adequate toilet facilities in the towns. Till date more than 1200 individual toilets for the households not having toilet facilities have been constructed under the mission and 186 communities and 257 public toilet seats have been installed newly or renovated.
2) Underground waste bins project is being undertaken in 3 cities namely Dharamshala, Poanta Sahib and Sundernagar on the pilot basis. Underground waste bins have been installed at 70 locations in Dharamshala, 22 in Sundernagar and in Poanta Sahib the work is under progress.
3) Various IEC activities being conducted regularly in the State for awareness of general public. Awareness through Swachhta Pakhwara, hoardings/banners, nukkad nataks, print and electronic media, rallies etc .For the financial year 2017-18, there is a budget provision of `18.00 crore as Centre share and `2.00 crore as State share for the implementation of this scheme. Funds are yet to be released by the Government of India during the current financial year.

A new mission “Housing for all” (Urban) has been launched by the Government of India to be effective from 17.06.2015 to 31.03.2022. The aim of this scheme is slum rehabilitation of slum dwellers, providing affordable houses for weaker section through credit linked subsidy public private sector and subsidy for beneficiary-led individual house construction. For the financial year 2017-18, there is a budget provision of `23.34 crore as Centre share and `2.54 crore as State share for the implementation of this scheme out of which `17.44 crore as Centre share and `1.78 crore as State share stands released and balance funds will be released during this financial year.

Under this scheme, an amount of `1.50 crore has been provided in the budget during the financial year 2017-18 for providing wage employment in newly created Nagar Panchayats and newly merged areas (Wards) of Municipal councils/ Municipal corporation in the Pradesh, out of which an amount of `1.10 crore stands released to Municipal corporation, Dharamshala and Municipal Councils-Rampur, Nerchowk and Nagar Panchayats-Tahliwal, Jawali and Baijnath-Paprola.

The 14th Finance Commission has recommended two type of grants namely basic grant to be released unconditionally and performance grant subject to fulfilment of certain conditions as laid down in the 14th Finance Commission. There is budget provision of `39.93 crore during the current financial year. Basic grant to the tune of `15.49 crore has been released to the ULBs, whereas performance grant is yet to be released by the Government of India.

To solve the parking problems in the urban areas of the Pradesh an amount of `10.00 crore has been provided in the budget during the financial year 2017-18, out of which `7.80 crore stands released to 16 Urban Local Bodies for construction of parkings

For construction of parks in Urban Local Bodies in phased manner, a sum of `10.00 crore has been provided in the budget during the financial year 2017-18, out of which `9.20 crore stands released to 44 Urban Local Bodies for construction of parks.

To ensure functional, economical, sustainable and aesthetical living environment through planned, equitable and regulated development, ensuring balanced use of scarce land resources, in view of demographic and socio-economic factors, preservation of environment, heritage and rational use of precious land resources by their sustainable development through community participation, the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act, 1977 has been enforced in 35 Planning Areas (1.58 percent of the total geographical area of the State) and 35 Special Area (2.06 percent of the total geographical area of the State). Existing Land Use Maps/ Registers prepared for Nadaun, Bhota, Sujanpur, BaijnathPaprola and Additional Shimla Planning Areas. Development Plans for Theog, Parwanoo (Revised), Trilokpur, KulluBhunter, Rampur (Revised), Nadaun and Dharamshala (Revised), Ghumarwin, Amb-Gagret, Sundernagar, Manikaran, Baijnath-Paprola and Bir-Billing Planning/ Special Area approved by the Government.
The projects that are proposed to be targeted for the next Financial Year 2018-19 which includes constitution of Planning Areas, Special Areas, preparation of Existing Land Use Maps, Development Plans and Regional Plans are as under:-
i)Preparation of Existing Land Use Maps for Planning/Special Areas namely Aut, Hinner, Hamirpur and Sangla-Kamru.
ii) Preparation of Development Plans for Shimla, Kullu, Kandaghat, Waknaghat, Chail, Ner-Chowk, Sujanpur, Bhota, Garli-Paragpur, Chamunda, Narkanda and Mehatpur.
Development Plans for Naggar and Reckong Peo Special Area have been prepared and sent to the Government for approval.
Aut, Hinner and SanglaKamru declared a Planning Area and Special Area in order to implement the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee RURBAN Mission launched by Government of India.
In the process of decentralization of the powers under the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act, 1977 powers delegated to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
In current financial year 2017-18 `1.27 crore has been allotted to achieve the physical targets mentioned above. Out of which up to 31.12.2017 `94.78 lakh has been incurred.

At present there are 12 Zila Parishads, 78 Panchayat Samities and 3,226 Gram Panchayats constituted in this State. After the enactment of 73rd amendment in the Constitution, the present is the fifth term of the Panchayats. As per the provisions of the constitution of India the Panchayati Raj Institutions have been assigned certain powers, functions and responsibilities from time to time either by making provisions under the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act or rules made there under or through executive instructions. Gram Sabhas have been vested with powers to select beneficiaries under various programmes, Gram Sabhas have been empowered to approve plans, programmes and budget prepared by Gram Panchayat, they are also authorized for issuance of utilization certificate of funds spent on the implementation of plans, projects and programmes of Gram Panchayat.
The Gram Panchayats have been made the appointing authority on contract basis in respect of Tailoring Teacher, Panchayat Chowkidar and Part-time Water Carriers in Primary schools and Jal Rakshak. Zila Parishads are authorized to appoint Assistant Engineers, Personal Assistants, Panchayat Sahayaks and Junior Engineers. The services of the Junior Accountant (Regular) have also been placed under the Zila Parishad cadre.

The ownership and maintenance of primary school buildings has been transferred to Gram Panchayats. Gram Panchayats have been empowered to collect the land revenue from the land owner/ right holders and will use the collected land revenue at their own level. Gram Panchayats have been empowered to impose various taxes, fees and fines and also to borrow money / raise loans for creation of income generating assets. Before grant of any lease for mining minerals, a resolution from the concerned Panchayat has been made compulsory. Panchayats have been empowered to prepare plans. Gram Panchayats have been also authorized to grant permission for erection of mobile communication tower and to levy fee. Gram Panchayats have been empowered to hear and decide the application for maintenance under section 125 of the Cr.P.C.1973 and can grant a maintenance allowance not exceeding `500 per month. Cess of `1 per bottle of liquor sold in the rural area will be collected and transferred to the Gram Panchayat for utilization in the developmental activities.
It has been made mandatory that village level functionaries of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Primary Education, Forest, Health and Family Welfare, Horticulture, Irrigation and Public Health, Revenue and Welfare Departments shall attend the meetings of the Gram Sabha in whose jurisdiction they are posted and if such village level functionaries fail to attend the meetings, Gram Sabha shall report the matter to their controlling officer through the Gram Panchayat who shall take disciplinary action against such functionaries within one month from the date of receipt of the report and shall intimate the action taken on such report to the Gram Sabha through the Gram Panchayat.

The other major provisions relating to Panchayati Raj are as under:-
i) The State Government is providing honorarium of the elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions. The rate of monthly honorarium to Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Zila Parishad is `8,000, `6,000, Chairman, and ViceChairman of Panchayat Samiti is `5,000/- and `3,500/-, Pradhan and Up-Pradhan of Gram Panchayat `3,000/- and `2,200/- respectively. In addition, to this member, Zila Parishad `3,500/- Member, Member of Panchayat Samiti `3,000/- and Members of Gram Panchayat `225/- as sitting fee subject to the maximum for two sittings in a month.
ii) The Government is providing grant-in-aid to PRIs for meeting the expenditure on Travelling and Daily Allowances of the elected representative of PRIs while they are on official tour.
iii) The State Government has provided facility of staying in Government rest houses while they are on official tour to the office bearers of Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samities.
iv) The recommendation of 14th FC started from the year 2015-16 and will be applicable upto the year 2019-20. Under the award of this commission `1,628.82 crore has been allocated as basic grant and `180.98 crore as performance grant for the State of Himachal Pradesh.
v) The rates of monthly remuneration of the Employees working on contract/ Regular basis in the Panchayat are as:- Panchayat Sahayak (contractual) `7,000 Panchayat Secretary (Contractual) `9,469, Junior Accountant (Contractual) `7,810 (Regular) 5,910-20,200 + 1,900 Junior Engineer (Contractual) `14,100 (Regular) `10,30034,800+3,800 Junior Stenographer (Contractual) `8,710 (Regular) `5,910-20,200 +2,800 Assistant Engineer (Contratual) `21,000 (Regular) `15,660-39,100+5,400 Tailoring Teacher (Contractual) `6,300 Panchayat Chowkidar (contractual) `4,000 Water Gaurd. `2,500 Panchayat Secretary (Regular) ZP `5,910 – 20,200 + 1,900 Data Entry Operator (ZP) (Contratual) `9,469 (Regular) ZP `5910 - 20200+ 1900, Peon-cumChowkidar (ZP) (Contratual) `6,138.
vi) Under Mission Mode Project: (e-Panchayat Project) of the Government of India, 12 core software applications have been rolled out in the PRIs. The training to the officials of the Panchayats/ Departments on these applications has been organized in the Panchayati Ra Training Institute, Mashobra. The Panchayati Raj Institutions have already started using these software applications.

Under National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), Department of Digital Technologies and Governance, Himachal Pradesh (DITHP) created secure network called HIMSWAN (Himachal State Wide Area Network). The HIMSWAN provides secured network connectivity to all the State Government Departments till block level and provide various efficient electronic delivery of G2G (Government to Government), G2C (Government to Citizens) and G2B (Government to Business) services. The Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY), Government of India funded this project for initial period of six years. HIMSWAN was set-up on 05.02.2008 and thus Department of Electronics and Information Technology DeitY, Government of India funding period got over in the year 2014.
Now the State Government bearing the cost of operation and maintenance of this project. HIMSWAN project ispresently on single-tier architecture with technologies like MPLS (Multi Protocol Label Switching)/ VPNoBB (Virtual Private Network Over Broadband) considering the growing demand for bandwidth due to video conferencing used in offices, the HIMSWAN is being revamped to threetier architecture using state-of-art technologies with stringent SLA‟s Network downtime, voice, data and video services. The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) 2,260 Government Offices across the State are connected through HIMSWAN network.
2) M/s Orange Business Services was appointed as HIMSWAN Operator for a period of 3 Years to manage to NOC from 01.09.2014 to 31.08.2017.
3) M/s KPMG was appointed as HIMSWAN Third Party Auditor (TPA) for a period of 3 Years for monitoring the Service Levels of HIMSWAN Operator. TPA started services from 18.07.2014 to 17.07.2017.
4) Tenders have been floated for selection of new HIMSWAN Operator and TPA and alternate Band Width Provider.

Under National eGovernance Plan (NeGP), Department of Digital Technologies and Governance, (DIT) has commissioned the Himachal Pradesh State Data Centre (HPSDC) on 30.05.2016 to host IT applications of various Government Departments for the benefits of citizens, to provide efficient electronic delivery of G2C (Government to Citizens), G2G (Government to Government) and G2B (Government to Business) services and to create common infrastructure for State Government Offices which include (Computing devices-servers in shared mode, storage, network devices, electrical, air conditioning, network connectivity, UPS, Rack etc.), installation and integration of IT infrastructure (servers, telecom equipment, integrated portal/ departmental information system, Enterprise and network management system, security, firewalls/ IDS, networking components etc.), software and data bases. Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY), Government of India (GoI) is supporting the cost of establishment, operation and maintenance of State Data Centre for a period of five years on 80:20 basis. The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) H.P.S.D.C. is in operation since 26.05.2016.
2) M/s Orange Business Services is the agency for installation, commissioning and maintenance of HPSDC for the period of 5 years. M/s Orange Business Services has started the work from 26.05.2014.
3) 80 Applications have been migrated to HPSDC and 134 Applications are under security audit.
4) Cloud enablement of SDC applications went live on 01.09.2016.
5) M/s E&Y is the Third Party Auditor (TPA) appointed for period of 5 Years for monitoring the ServiceLevelsbeing adhered to by HPSDC Operator.
6) HPSDC implemented with compliance such as ISO 27001, ISO 20000 and CERT-IN Security Standards.
7) CCTNS application and hardware, Land records and e Procurment databases hosted in HPSDC.

The scheme aims to establish LMK‟s (CSC) at Gram Panchayat level in the State and to act as front end delivery points for Government, Private and Social Sector Services to rural citizens at their door steps, in an integrated manner using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as tools. The LMKs are acting as front end delivery points for delivery of G2C services to the citizen of the State at Gram Panchayat Level. State Government has also implementing e-District Project and delivery of these services would also be made available at LMKs.The following achievements have been made during the year:- Presently 3,226 CSCIDs have been issued and 2,809 are active for CSCs in Himachal Pradesh, also 2,308 LMKs are active and providing 28 G2C services which includes;
1) Collection of HPSEB electricity bill.
2) IPH water bill.
3) Issuance of copy of NakalJamabandi (Land Records).
4) Under PMGDISHA Scheme 74,702 student registered, trained and 28,139 certified till December, 2017.

Under the Capacity Building scheme of Government of India, there are different components like training of Government employees, sourcing of technical and professional manpower for assisting the State Government in the implementation of various e-Governance Projects. The following achievements have been made during the year :-
1) Till date 2,323 employees have been trained under capacity building project.
2) Under SeMT, 4 technical resources have been deployed through NeGD.
3) e-Office training imparted to more than 600 users of several state departments.
4) e-Gov project management training organised for departments officials covered under SC/ ST/ TSP in January- 2017.

Revenue Court Case Monitoring System has been developed by the Department of Digital Technologies and Governance for the use of Revenue Courts at Division, District, S.D.M. and Tehsil level. System captures the routine proceedings of revenue courts, interim orders and Judgments.The details of the revenue cases are available online for the general public. The citizens can access the status of their cases online, see cause list and download interim orders/ judgments. The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) RCMS project got national level CSI-Nihilent e-Governance Awards for year 2014 for recognizing e-Government Initiatives in India.
2) 280 Revenue Courts are using RCMS software.
3) 84,158 court cases have been entered in the RCMS and out of which 36,543 cases are decided.
Litigation Monitoring System: Monitoring of court cases at departmental level is a big challenge. Departmental of Information Technology has got developed a generic software for monitoring of court cases at the departmental level. Using this software, Secretaries/ HoDs can easily monitor the status of the court cases with regard to pending cases, timely reply filling, present status, personal presence required etc.The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) The Advocate General office is updating the status of cases online. All the file movement activities within Advocate General office are being covered out through the software.
2) All Government Departments are using LMS for viewing the daily status of their cases.
3) All the communication to be sent to concerned department(s) are being generated through this software.
Following features have been incorporated in LMS software:
1) Sending intimation to ADs/ HoDs/ Nodal Officers of the concerned Department via e-mail, SMS.
2) Automatic generation of letters while entering the case details of concerned department.
3) Deletion/ transfer of cases option has been incorporated in the software.

Aadhaar program started in Himachal Pradesh in December, 2010 and since then the State Government has maintained a leading position in terms of Aadhaar generation. UID has been generated formore than 75.73 lakh (105 percent) residents against the projected population of 2017.
Use of Aadhaar:
1) Aadhaar seeding in PDS database is 85 percent, MGNREGA is 98 percent, Education is 100 percent and NSAP is 84.01 percent, LPG is 96 percent and Pariwar register is 73 percent.
2) DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) of ₹838.00 crore has been distributed.
3) Himachal is a first state to start DBT in MGNREGA.
4) Aadhaar based biometric attendance system is live in Town and Country Planning Department, Department of Digital Technologies and Governance, Woman and Child Development, Directorate of Prison, Fisheries Department and I.T.I‟s .

e-Office is a product that is aimed at file Movement automation in Government offices making the process more efficient, effective and transparent for inter-government intragovernment transaction. e-Office has been deployed in HPSDC and rolled out initial level in the fillowing departments:
1) Police Headquarters, Shimla.
2) Department of Armed Police and Training.
3) Department of Digital Technologies and Governance.
4) Directorate of Police Communication and Technical Services.
5) Himachal Pradesh High Court.
6) Directorate of Accounts, Lotteries and Treasuries.
7) SP Office, Mandi.
Additional training has been imparted to following departments:
1) Town and Country Planning Department.
2) Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission.
3) Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Hamirpur.
4) Department of Forests.
5) Directorate of Food and Civil Supply.
6) HIPA, Shimla.

The facility would eliminate the need for taking prisoners to courts and will facilitate faster delivery of justice. The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) M/s Bharti Airtel is the implementing agency to supply and install the VC equipment in the State and maintain the same for period of 5 years from the date of commissioning of the project.
2) M/s Bharti Airtel has been given order to supply and install 63 VC facilities and all 63 VC facilities has been delivered and commissioned successfully.
3) 7 Courts and 13 Jails have been provided VC facility under this project.
4) DIT, HPPCL, Panchayati Raj, DG Prisons, HPSFL and Health department are covered by VC facility.

e–District Project is a Mission Mode Project (MMP), that aims to provide integrated citizen centric services. It envisages integrated and seamless delivery of citizen services by district administration through automation of work flow, backend computerisation, and data digitisation across participating departments. It further aims to integrate multiple applications, faster processing of public cases/ appeals/ grievances, dissemination of information as per public requirement and redesign the processes for the core services to be delivered through the Common Service Centers. Following activities have been completed under this project:
1) 52 e-services under e-district launched in all 12 Districts.
2) e-district managers and DeGS formed in all 12 districts.
3) M/s IL and FS Technologies Ltd. is working as SI (System Integrator) for State Wide roll-out of e-District MMP.
4) Training of 7 department users organized in phases.
5) Phase-I went live on 02.07.2015 with 10 services in 9 districts.
6) Phase-4 went live on 04.06 2016 with 52 services in all 12 districts.
7) Hardware Delivery at all departmental locations for all 12 districts.
8) Integration of e-District application with UIDAI (Aadhaar), SMS Gateway, Payment Gateway,Land Record, E-Parivar, BPL, CRS, Public service Gurantee Act,(PSG) are completed.

The Department of Agriculture and Cooperation (DAC), Ministry of Agriculture is implementing National e-Governance Programme (NeGP) in the Agriculture sector as a Mission Mode Project (A-MMP), covering Agriculture Sector, Livestock Sector and Fisheries sector. 12 Cluster of services identified under this project.
NeGP-A is proposed to be implemented across the country and aims at offering Government to Citizen/ Farmer (G2C or G2F), Government to Business (G2B) and Government to Government (G2G) agricultural services in an integrated manner through the Central Agriculture Portal (CAP) and State Agriculture Portals (SAPs). The following achievements have been made during the year:-
1) Hardware for all the 193 locations has been supplied and installed.
2) Basic Computer Training to all the officials has been completed.
3) Application is being development by NIC.
4) Kissan/ Farmer portal has been hosted at Central server.
5) MIS application of JICA launched on NeGP server.
6) Agrimobile andAgrisnet portal deployed on state data center.

This is a Web based online tool to make the Processes of Procurement and tendering more efficient. The e-Procurement System of Himachal Pradesh enables the Tenderers to download the Tender Schedule free of cost and then submit the bids online through this portal. The Objectives of the system are: Minimize Procurement Costs, Maximize Procurement Efficiency, Competitive and Uniform Rates across State, and Transparency in official procedure, No manipulation possible, Time Saving and No Pooling of Tenders.
1) 28 Departments/ Corporations are using this Software i.e. PWD, DIT, I & PH etc., Various Corporations such as BBNDA, HRTC, HPMC, HPSEDC etc.
2) Project Management unit has been setup to include more and more Departments.
3) World Bank is funding this project for a period of five years and disbursement is linked with targets:
i) Digital Library of India to be achieved for current financial year is ₹3,173.30 crore
ii) Published tender value achieved for the current financial year is ₹2,934.04 crore till January,2018 from e-Procurement Portal.
iii) ₹9.23 crore from Governemnt e-Marketing Portal. d. Remaining target of ₹230.03 crore is to be achieved in next two months of current financial year.
4) Financial department to issue notification for reduction in tender value limit to use online portal for all procurements above in a passed manner as per detail below:
i) ₹10 lakh till 31.03.2018
ii)₹ 5 lakh till 01.04.2018
iii) ₹ 2 lakh till 01.04.2019