February Month — Himachal Pradesh in Focus

Asia's Longest Zipline Project at Naddi (Kangra), Himachal Pradesh

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh government has approved the development of Asia's longest zipline — a 4.4-kilometre adventure tourism attraction — at Naddi in Kangra district. Estimated to cost ₹7.41 crore, the project aims to significantly boost tourism, adventure-sports infrastructure and the local economy in the picturesque Dhauladhar valley. The zipline is planned across four stations and is expected to be completed within the next three years.

Background

• Adventure tourism has emerged as a key pillar of HP's tourism strategy given its rugged terrain and growing demand for experiential travel.
• Naddi, a scenic village near McLeodganj popular for panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range, has been chosen to host this landmark project.
• The development fits into broader government efforts to diversify tourism beyond conventional sightseeing, tapping into adrenaline-based activities and longer stays.

Major Surinder Singh Jamwal — Hero of Operation Cactus Lily (1971 War)

What's the News? In remembrance of his extraordinary courage during the 1971 India–Pakistan War, Major Surinder Singh Jamwal of the 13 Dogra Regiment is being celebrated for his pivotal role in Operation Cactus Lily — a decisive Eastern-sector campaign that contributed significantly to India's victory and the eventual creation of Bangladesh. Jamwal was honoured with the Vir Chakra — India's gallantry award for conspicuous bravery under fire.

Background — Operation Cactus Lily

• One of the major offensive operations undertaken by the Indian Army in the Eastern Theatre (then East Pakistan) during 1971.
• Involved swift advances to capture fortified positions, cut off Pakistani defence lines and facilitate the liberation of Bangladesh.
• Coordination between infantry, armour and supporting units was essential in overcoming entrenched defences.
• Officers such as Major Jamwal demonstrated frontline leadership, inspiring troops to press the attack despite formidable opposition.

Advanced Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Procedures at AIMSS, Chamiyana

What's the News? Doctors in the Department of Gastroenterology at Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS), Chamiyana, have successfully introduced advanced Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-guided procedures in the state. Two patients with abdominal fluid collections — a common complication of acute pancreatitis — were treated using the minimally invasive EUS-guided cystogastrostomy technique, allowing drainage of pus/fluid without open surgery.

Background — What is Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)?

• EUS combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to allow doctors to visualise internal organs and structures around the gastrointestinal tract — pancreas, fluid collections etc. — with high resolution.
• Traditionally diagnostic, EUS has evolved to enable therapeutic interventions like drainage of cysts/abscesses under real-time imaging guidance.
• In cystogastrostomy, a passage is created between a fluid collection (like a pancreatic pseudocyst) and the stomach to allow continuous drainage.
• EUS guidance increases precision, lowers risk and avoids major open surgery — especially beneficial for complicated pancreatitis cases.
• Previously, patients needing advanced EUS-guided procedures in Himachal had to be referred outside the state.

Delays, Damage & Rising Costs Plague NH-21A in Himachal Pradesh

What's Happening? The 36-km National Highway-21A (Pinjore–Baddi–Nalagarh) four-lane project — a key transport link for Himachal Pradesh's industrial belt — is facing serious delays, cost overruns and deteriorating conditions, causing economic and social disruption.

Why It Matters for Himachal

• NH-21A is a vital link for one of North India's largest industrial clusters; any disruption significantly affects economic activity, employment and logistics.
• Poor road conditions contribute to accidents, traffic bottlenecks and higher vehicle operating costs, impacting both local residents and businesses.

Himachal Pradesh Rolls Out Hydrology-Based Road Drainage Policy

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a Hydrology-Based Road Drainage Policy aimed at improving the resilience of road infrastructure against intense rainfall, landslides and waterlogging — key challenges in hilly terrain. The policy focuses on designing road drainage systems based on scientific hydrological assessments rather than traditional practices.

Background — Challenges of Road Infrastructure in Himalayan Terrain

Himachal Pradesh's mountainous topography makes road construction and maintenance particularly challenging due to steep slopes and fragile geology, high rainfall and snowmelt runoff, frequent landslides and erosion, and drainage failures leading to pavement damage. Traditional drainage systems often fail to account for hydrological variability in mountainous catchments.

Why Hydrology Matters

Hydrology is the scientific study of the movement, distribution and quality of water; rainfall-runoff processes; and watershed dynamics. Incorporating hydrology in road design helps:

• Predict peak flows during storms
• Size culverts and drains correctly
• Reduce road washouts
• Improve traffic safety

Traditional Fagli Festival Celebrated with Fervour in Spiti

What's the News? The Fagli festival, a vibrant and culturally significant winter celebration, was recently observed with great enthusiasm across villages in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The festival — rooted in local traditions — brings communities together through rituals, music, dance and seasonal customs that strengthen social bonds and cultural identity.

Background — What is Fagli?

• Fagli is a traditional mid-winter festival celebrated in the Trans-Himalayan region of Spiti — a cold desert area in Lahaul & Spiti district.
• Marks the end of deep winter and the hope for spring's arrival.
• Celebrations include singing folk songs, dancing around bonfires/sacred sites, recitations of seasonal ballads and symbolic acts invoking prosperity and protection.

Cultural Significance

• Reflects the rich cultural heritage of Spitian communities shaped by high-altitude climate and rugged terrain.
• Strengthens community bonds and social cohesion during a period when harsh winters isolate villages.
• Helps sustain indigenous knowledge, customs and oral traditions.

Spiti's Cultural Landscape

Spiti Valley — known for its Tibetan Buddhist heritage — hosts festivals that combine religious devotion and communal celebration, often linked to the lunar calendar and seasonal cycles.

Himachal Pradesh Government Rolls Out First-Ever Cervical Cancer Vaccination Drive

What's the News? In a major public health initiative, the Himachal Pradesh government has launched its first-ever cervical cancer vaccination drive aimed at protecting adolescent girls and reducing the incidence of cervical cancer — one of the most common cancers affecting women.

Background — Cervical Cancer & HPV Vaccine

• Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, primarily due to persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — especially types HPV-16 and HPV-18.
• The HPV vaccine (such as Cervarix and Gardasil) protects against high-risk HPV strains responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers.
• Recommended mainly for adolescent girls before the onset of sexual activity, making early immunisation crucial.
• WHO and national agencies advocate HPV immunisation as part of comprehensive cervical cancer prevention, alongside screening and awareness.

Public Health Significance

• Cervical cancer is a preventable disease with effective vaccination and regular screening.
• Low- and middle-income regions often witness higher disease burden due to limited access to preventive services.
• Immunisation drives play an important role in reducing morbidity and mortality and saving healthcare costs in the long run.

Shimla Ice Skating Rink to Get ₹20–22 Crore Makeover

What's the News? The Shimla Ice Skating Rink, one of the city's iconic sporting and tourism landmarks, is set to receive a major ₹20–22 crore renovation and upgrade, aimed at improving its infrastructure, facilities and year-round usability. The upgrade is expected to boost tourism, promote winter sports and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Background — Shimla Ice Skating Rink

• One of the highest altitude natural ice skating rinks in Asia, located near Lower Bazaar, Shimla.
• Popular among locals and tourists, especially during winter months when temperatures are conducive to natural ice formation.
• Regularly hosts ice skating events, attracting winter sports enthusiasts.

Tourism & Sports Development in Himachal Pradesh

• The state has been promoting adventure and winter sports to diversify its tourism offerings beyond scenic hill stations.
• Winter sports infrastructure upgrades can help spur sports tourism, create jobs and encourage local participation in athletics.

HP State Co-operative Bank Wins National Award for Strengthening SHGs

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh State Co-operative Bank has been conferred the National Award for Outstanding Performance in 'SHG Bank Linkage' under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). The award was presented by Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare & Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, at an event in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Background — DAY-NRLM & SHG Bank Linkage

• Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM is a flagship Central Government initiative aimed at mobilising rural poor into Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and linking them with formal financial institutions.
• Banks are recognised for extending credit and banking services to SHGs, particularly women-led groups crucial for grassroots economic empowerment.

Why This Matters for Himachal

• Boost to rural economy: Strengthening SHGs enhances financial access for rural households and fosters entrepreneurship at the grassroots.
• Women empowerment: Schemes like Sashakt Mahila Rin Yojna promote women's participation in economic activities.
• Recognition for cooperative sector: Elevates the role of cooperative banks in inclusive growth, especially in hilly and remote regions.

Samagra Shiksha Partners with Agritech Solutions to Train 600 Students

What's the News? Under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, the Himachal Pradesh Government has partnered with Pioneer Agritech Solutions to provide specialised agritech training to 600 Class 12 students from government schools across the state. The programme focused on modern agricultural practices including hydroponics, protective farming, polyhouse cultivation and other sustainable techniques.

Background — Samagra Shiksha & Skill Development

• Samagra Shiksha Scheme is a flagship Government of India programme aimed at improving access, quality, equity and outcomes in school education from pre-school to Class 12.
• Emphasises vocational training, skill development and industry linkages to prepare students for future careers.
• This collaboration aligns with national priorities on Skill India and youth employability, especially in sectors that drive rural economies.

Why This Matters for Himachal Pradesh

• Education–industry linkage: Introduces students to real-world applications of agriculture tech beyond textbooks.
• Skill development: Equips youth with practical skills for emerging sectors such as hydroponics and sustainable farming.
• Rural empowerment: Strengthens community resilience by enhancing employability in agritech and allied sectors.
• New career pathways: Encourages students to explore careers in agriculture technology, entrepreneurship and value-addition.

Boh Valley of Shahpur Set to Become HP's First Trout Hub

What's the News? The Boh Valley, located in the Dharkandi region of Kangra district, about 25 km from Shahpur, is being developed as Himachal Pradesh's first trout hub. The under-construction trout hatchery and related infrastructure are nearing completion, marking a significant step toward boosting rural livelihoods through aquaculture.

Background

• HP has favourable conditions for cold-water fisheries, especially trout farming, due to mountain streams and low temperatures.
• Districts like Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Chamba have already seen success in trout cultivation.
• The state government has been promoting trout farming under various fisheries development schemes, aiming to position HP as a leading producer of high-value cold-water fish in India.

Why This Matters

• Rural economic growth: Diversifies income sources where traditional agriculture is limited.
• Employment generation: Empowers youth and families with self-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
• Aquaculture potential: HP already supplies trout ova to other states; the hub strengthens local production capacity.
• Market infrastructure: Distribution support through kiosks and cold transport enhances access for producers and consumers.

Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Scheme Extended to Support Widows' Daughters in Higher Education

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh Government has expanded the ambit of the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Scheme to include financial support for daughters of widows pursuing higher studies, both within and outside the state. Previously, the scheme primarily focused on children below 18 years of widows, destitute or divorced women, and parents with disabilities. The revised provisions now extend eligibility to daughters up to 27 years of age for higher education support.

Background — Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Scheme

• Flagship state welfare initiative aimed at supporting education, health and nutrition for children from vulnerable households, especially those headed by widows, destitute or divorced women, and families with disabled parents.
• Eligible children receive a monthly grant and financial support for education and related expenses — preventing dropouts due to socio-economic challenges.

Antibiotic Resistance in Animals Due to Indiscriminate Drug Use (Himachal Pradesh)

What's the News? At a three-day skill development programme for State Veterinary Pharmacists at CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture University, Palampur, experts highlighted the rising threat of antibiotic resistance caused by the indiscriminate and excessive use of medicines, particularly antibiotics, in livestock and poultry. Officials called for judicious use of drugs and the promotion of plant-based medicines of Himalayan origin for sustainable disease management.

Background — Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) & Animal Health

• AMR occurs when microorganisms (like bacteria) evolve to survive exposure to antibiotics that once killed them.
• Driven by overuse and misuse of antibiotics in human medicine, agriculture and animal husbandry.
• In livestock and poultry sectors, antibiotics are often given not just to treat diseases but also for growth promotion or prophylactic use — particularly where veterinary supervision is inadequate.
• These practices can leave residues in meat and dairy products and accelerate the development of resistant bacterial strains.
• India's antibiotic use patterns show high volumes in the livestock sector, adding pressure on antibiotics critical for human medicine.

Massive Forest Fire Erupts in Kullu's Bijli Mahadev Area

What's the News? A massive forest fire broke out at the Bijli Mahadev forest area in Kullu district on the evening of 19 February 2026, causing panic among residents of nearby Bhuntar. The blaze — which started on the dry grass slopes — quickly spread before being brought under control by the HP Forest Department and local volunteers.

Background — Forest Fires in Himachal Pradesh

• HP's vast forested landscapes are prone to forest fire incidents, especially during dry and windy seasons.
• Forest fire data shows the state has reported multiple fire outbreaks in recent years, with significant forest wealth and biodiversity losses.
• Fires are often aggravated by dry vegetation, low humidity and human activity — including accidental or intentional ignition.
• Forest fires reduce ecological cover and impact soil health, biodiversity and local livelihoods dependent on forest resources.

Preserving Oral Traditions of Wild Food Plants — Learning From Grandmothers

What's the News? An insightful commentary emphasises the importance of oral knowledge passed down by grandmothers in Himalayan villages about wild food plants — species traditionally used as nutrition, medicine and ecological wisdom long before formal science codified their value. This traditional ecological knowledge, often dismissed today as folklore, holds keys to food security, sustainable diets and climate resilience.

Background

• Himalayan communities have historically depended on forests for food, medicine and livelihood, developing intricate knowledge systems over centuries.
• However, with rapid socio-economic changes, this oral knowledge is at risk of disappearing.
• Efforts by researchers, NGOs and government agencies are increasingly focusing on documenting traditional ecological knowledge and linking it with modern conservation and sustainable development frameworks.

Centre Approves ₹1,463 Crore Greenfield Road Link to Boost Connectivity Towards Shimla

What's the News? The Union Government, led by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, has approved a ₹1,463.95 crore project to build a six-lane, access-controlled greenfield spur road in Punjab. This corridor will link the Ambala–Chandigarh section of NH-205A with the Zirakpur Bypass, significantly improving regional connectivity and reducing travel time towards Himachal Pradesh, including Shimla.

Background — Road Infrastructure & Connectivity Initiatives

• The Government of India's transport policy has prioritised expansive road infrastructure development to strengthen connectivity, reduce travel times and support economic growth.
• Expansion and upgrade of highway networks, access-controlled expressways, ring roads and bypasses have been central to this strategy — for example, multi-lane projects under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan aim to create seamless logistics and passenger networks across the country.

Tibetan New Year (Losar) Marked With Traditional Rituals and Prayers

What's the News? The Tibetan community in Himachal Pradesh, especially in McLeodganj (Dharamsala) and other settlements, recently celebrated Losar — the Tibetan New Year with traditional rituals, prayers and cultural observances marking the beginning of Losar 2153, the Year of the Fire Horse. Celebrations began with prayers for peace, unity, prosperity, and the long life of the Dalai Lama.

Background — Losar, the Tibetan New Year

• Losar (meaning "New Year" in Tibetan) is one of the most significant festivals in Tibetan Buddhism, marking the start of the lunar New Year.
• Traditionally celebrated with rituals to purify the old year's negativity and usher in blessings.
• While in Tibet the full celebration can last up to 15 days, in exile communities such as in HP, it is observed as a three-day cultural and spiritual festival.
• Rituals include offerings, burning incense, chanting of sacred mantras, lighting butter lamps and wearing traditional attire — all emphasising spiritual renewal, community harmony and continuity of cultural heritage.

From Pharma Pride to Quality Crisis — Himachal's Rising Share of Substandard Drugs

What's the News? Himachal Pradesh — long regarded as a pharmaceutical powerhouse contributing a substantial share to India's domestic medicine supply — now accounts for about one-third of all substandard drugs (Not of Standard Quality, NSQ) flagged nationwide, according to the latest monthly drug quality alert issued by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

Background — Himachal's Pharmaceutical Industry

Himachal Pradesh is home to one of India's largest pharmaceutical production bases, with hundreds of drug and allied units concentrated in industrial belts like Baddi, Barotiwala, Nalagarh, Kala Amb and Paonta Sahib. The state produces an estimated 30–35% of India's total pharmaceutical output annually. This dominance earned it the reputation of a drug manufacturing hub — but the consistently high share of NSQ samples in national alerts highlights systemic quality challenges that could undermine public trust and patient safety.

Surge in Renal Failure Cases in Himachal Pradesh — Men Disproportionately Affected

What's the News? Himachal Pradesh is witnessing a sharp rise in renal failure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases, with around 25,000 people across the state suffering from kidney-related ailments and approximately 300 new cases registered daily in hospitals. Recent findings show that 60.2% of CKD patients are men, highlighting a significant gender disparity. The surge has exposed gaps in specialist healthcare infrastructure, particularly in urology and nephrology services outside the state's primary referral centre at Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda in Kangra.

Background

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major non-communicable disease (NCD) globally and in India.
• It is a progressive condition in which kidneys gradually lose their filtering capacity.
• India has witnessed a steady rise in CKD cases due to increasing diabetes and hypertension.
• Hill states like Himachal Pradesh face additional risks such as mineral-rich water and limited specialist access.
• Early detection is difficult because CKD often remains asymptomatic in its initial stages.

Himachal Pradesh Launches ₹207 Crore Indira Gandhi Matri Shishu Sankalp Yojna

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh Government has approved the launch of the Indira Gandhi Matri Shishu Sankalp Yojna (IGMSSY) with a financial outlay of ₹207.11 crore to strengthen maternal and child health and combat persistent malnutrition. The initiative was announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Background

• Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge in India despite improvements in food production.
• According to NFHS data, issues like stunting, wasting and underweight children persist across states.
• Poor maternal nutrition contributes to low birth weight and weak immunity in children.
• The first 1,000 days of life are crucial for brain development and long-term health outcomes.
• State-level interventions complement national schemes like POSHAN Abhiyaan and ICDS to reduce malnutrition.

₹72 Crore Ice Hockey Rink Approved for Jispa, Centre's Nod Awaited

What's the News? The Himachal Pradesh Government has granted state-level approval for the construction of a modern ice hockey rink at Jispa in Lahaul-Spiti district, with an estimated cost of ₹72 crore. The project — proposed under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) — now awaits final clearance from the Central Government before work can commence. This forms part of a broader push to strengthen winter sports infrastructure in high-altitude regions.

Background

• HP has natural advantages for winter sports due to its high altitude, prolonged snow cover and cold climate, particularly in Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur.
• These conditions have supported indigenous winter sports — especially ice hockey, with a long following — and feature in events such as Khelo India Winter Games.
• Despite local enthusiasm, formal all-weather ice rinks and modern training infrastructure have been limited, posing challenges for skill development and competitive performance.
• The approved rink at Jispa aims to bridge this gap.

10-Day Hola Mohalla Fair Begins at Dera Baba Badbhag Singh Shrine, Una

What's the News? The annual Hola Mohalla fair has begun at the Dera Baba Badbhag Singh shrine in Mairi village, Amb subdivision of Una district, marking a 10-day religious and cultural celebration that draws lakhs of devotees from HP and neighbouring states. The fair started on 24 February 2026 and will continue until early March.

Background — Hola Mohalla & Dera Baba Badbhag Singh Fair

• Hola Mohalla is a traditional Sikh fair and festival associated with Sikh martial and spiritual heritage.
• While its origins lie with Guru Gobind Singh and are celebrated with martial displays in places like Anandpur Sahib, in Una the festival has taken on a distinctive pilgrimage character.
• The fair at the Dera Baba Badbhag Singh shrine commemorates Baba Vadbhag Singh Sodhi, a Sikh warrior and saint known for his spiritual penance and reputation for healing and protection.
• Every year devotees visit the shrine and the nearby Charan Ganga, believing that bathing in its waters, offering prayers and participating in rituals can help seek spiritual relief, mental peace and blessings.

First-of-Its-Kind IVF Success in Himachal — Three High Genetic Merit Calves Born in Palampur

What's the News? In a landmark achievement for livestock breeding in HP, the state's first In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) laboratory, located at Banuri in Palampur, has successfully produced three high genetic merit calves from a single elite Jersey cow within one year. This represents a significant breakthrough in advanced reproductive technology for dairy improvement.

Background — IVF Technology in Livestock

• In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a reproductive technology where eggs are fertilised outside the animal's body and the resulting embryos are then implanted into surrogate mothers.
• This technique allows multiple calves to be produced from genetically superior females within a much shorter time frame than natural reproduction permits.
• Used globally to enhance breed quality, conserve superior genetics and improve livestock productivity — crucial for sustainable dairy development and rural livelihoods.

Decline in Vulture Population & Conservation Efforts in Himachal Pradesh

Why in News? An alarming decline in the vulture population across HP has emerged as a critical ecological concern. The state government has responded by launching conservation measures aimed at safeguarding natural habitats and reviving these vital scavengers of the ecosystem.

Background

• Vultures in India faced a catastrophic decline beginning in the mid-1990s, driven largely by the veterinary use of diclofenac — a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug toxic to vultures feeding on treated livestock carcasses.
• Nationwide surveys have shown significant disruptions in nesting sites, with states like Himachal Pradesh becoming key refuges for surviving populations.
• In HP, conservation efforts date back to early protection programmes in Kangra district and include strategies like protecting nesting trees, creating feeding stations (vulture restaurants) and expanding conservation projects to other districts.

Kullu's Bairagi Community Keeps 350-Year-Old Holi Tradition Alive

Why in News? A centuries-old Holi celebration practiced by the Bairagi community in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh has gained attention for preserving traditional devotional practices and cultural heritage amid the growing influence of modern celebrations.

40-Day Celebration Period

• The Bairagi community begins Holi festivities around Basant Panchami, nearly 40 days before the festival, with daily processions, devotional singing and application of gulal.
• Traditional processions: Members of the community take out religious processions through the town, visiting temples and maintaining ritualistic practices linked with Holi.

Cultural Significance

• Connection with Ayodhya: The tradition dates back to the mid-17th century, when the idol of Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama) was brought from Ayodhya to Kullu. Members of the Bairagi community accompanied the idol and continued their devotional Holi practices.
• Preservation of folk heritage: Ritual singing of Braj Holi songs reflects the cultural influence of North Indian devotional traditions, linking Kullu's celebrations to those of Mathura and Vrindavan.
• Community participation: Local leaders and temple caretakers, including the Chharibardar (chief caretaker) of Lord Raghunath, actively participate in rituals.

Background

• Kullu is widely known for its rich religious traditions centred around Lord Raghunath, the principal deity of the region.
• Cultural practices associated with the deity — such as Kullu Dussehra and traditional Holi celebrations — have been preserved for centuries through local community involvement.
• The Bairagi community's Holi celebrations emphasise devotion, folk music and temple rituals, highlighting how traditional Himalayan festivals continue to thrive despite modernisation.

SheTravel Initiative for Safe Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Why in News? The Himachal Pradesh government is considering a new "SheTravel" policy aimed at making the state a safe and women-friendly destination for solo travellers, especially in mountain tourism areas.

Background

• HP is one of India's leading mountain tourism destinations, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors every year.
• With the growing trend of solo women travel, governments are increasingly adopting gender-sensitive tourism policies to improve safety, infrastructure and employment opportunities.
• The proposed SheTravel policy draws inspiration from women-centric tourism initiatives implemented in states like Kerala, which successfully increased women's participation in tourism services.

JICA Agriculture Project Phase-II to Cover 296 Sites in Himachal Pradesh

Why in News? The Himachal Pradesh government has announced that the second phase of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-supported agriculture project will be implemented at 296 sites across all 12 districts to promote crop diversification and increase farmers' income.

Infrastructure Development

The programme will support development of irrigation systems, construction of farm access roads, strengthening of agricultural marketing infrastructure and establishment of training and capacity-building centres for farmers.

Coverage and Beneficiaries

• Around 25,000–30,000 farmer families expected to benefit.
• Project will cover about 7,900 hectares of agricultural land.
• 296 sub-projects planned (with additional convergence projects), many focusing on micro-irrigation and water resource development.

Background

• The Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project (HPCDP) is implemented with financial assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
• Phase-II launched to expand the earlier programme and promote sustainable agriculture and income enhancement.
• Project period expected to run for about nine years (2021–2029), focusing on infrastructure, capacity building and market linkages for diversified agriculture.

All India Civil Services Wrestling Championship Inaugurated in Mandi

Why in News? A three-day All India Civil Services Wrestling Championship (2025–26) was inaugurated at Vallabh Government Degree College, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the state's efforts to promote sports and strengthen sports infrastructure.

Increase in Cash Awards for Athletes

The state government has significantly enhanced cash incentives for medal winners at major international sporting events.

Support for Athletes' Participation & Infrastructure

• Government to provide three-tier AC train travel and air travel allowances to athletes participating in distant states.
• 26 sports grounds constructed under the Chief Minister's Sports Promotion Scheme at a cost of about ₹3.9 crore.
• A modern indoor stadium in Sundernagar is under construction at an estimated cost of ₹10.5 crore.
• Around ₹6.5 lakh in prize money distributed to medal-winning athletes in Mandi district during the current financial year.

Background

• The All India Civil Services Sports Tournament is organised annually for government employees from various central and state departments to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship and inter-departmental interaction.
• HP has been increasingly hosting national sporting events, reflecting government efforts to develop sports infrastructure and encourage youth participation in athletics and traditional sports such as wrestling.

Naval Sub Lt Ravinder Kumar Kapoor — Sullah's Double Gallantry Award Winner

Why in News? Naval Sub-Lieutenant Ravinder Kumar Kapoor, a native of Sullah in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, has been highlighted for his extraordinary bravery as a rare recipient of two Nausena Medals (Gallantry) for heroic acts during India's Antarctic expeditions in the early 1980s.

Background

• India began its Antarctic research programme in 1981, sending annual expeditions for scientific research and logistical operations.
• Missions involve personnel from the armed forces, scientists and technical experts working together under extreme climatic conditions.
• Acts of courage during such missions are recognised with gallantry awards such as the Nausena Medal, conferred by the President of India for individual acts of exceptional bravery or devotion to duty in the Indian Navy.

Kangra's Bharti Bhoria Conferred Innovative Farmer Award

Why in News? A farmer from Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Bharti Bhoria, has been honoured with the Innovative Farmer Award for adopting and promoting modern agricultural practices and innovation in farming.

Background

• Agriculture remains a major livelihood source in HP, especially in districts like Kangra, Mandi and Shimla, where farmers increasingly adopt crop diversification, horticulture and modern farming technologies to improve incomes.
• Government departments and agricultural institutions often recognise such innovators through farmer awards, training programmes and extension services to encourage wider adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.