Former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jairam Thakur, offered prayers at the renowned Baba Bhootnath temple in Mandi district on the occasion of Sawan Sankranti, wishing for the peace, tranquility, and prosperity of the state's residents. He also reviewed the ongoing relief efforts in the state and, in a conversation with the media, appealed to generous donors to coordinate with the administration to deliver relief materials to remote and rural areas.
Reaching Remote Areas with Relief is Essential
Jairam Thakur stated that many people in the state are actively participating in relief efforts according to their abilities, which is highly commendable. However, he expressed concern that many areas, especially those cut off from road connectivity, are not receiving relief materials. He urged those involved in relief work not to limit themselves to villages located along roads but to also reach out to people in difficult-to-access areas and provide them with assistance.
Coordinate with Administration for Relief Distribution
The former Chief Minister appealed to donors to contact the administration or local Panchayat representatives before distributing relief materials, so that assistance can reach the needy more effectively. He assured that the administration and he himself would fully cooperate in such efforts. Thakur said that planned relief assistance can benefit more and more people.
Review of Relief Efforts in Thunag and Janjehli
Jairam Thakur held a meeting with the heads and representatives of the Panchayats of Thunag and Janjehli subdivisions in his Seraj assembly constituency to review the relief efforts. The meeting involved a detailed discussion on the current situation in the areas affected by the natural disaster and the progress of ongoing relief and rescue operations. He also directed the officials to provide immediate relief to the affected families.
Panchayat Representatives Shared Ground Realities
In the relief review meeting, Panchayat representatives shared the situation in their respective areas and presented the needs on a priority basis. Jairam Thakur asked everyone for a detailed account of the damage caused by the disaster so that plans could be made based on those figures to make relief efforts more effective. He also appealed to ensure prompt, coordinated, and accountable relief efforts at the Panchayat level.
Expressed Gratitude to Donors and Organizations
The former Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the donors and social organizations who are working selflessly in this time of crisis. He said that it is through the efforts of these organizations that thousands of affected families are receiving support. Jairam Thakur said that people from across the state, as well as from other parts of the country, are coming forward to help Himachal, which reflects the state's unity and spirit of mutual cooperation.
Thanks to Prime Minister Modi and the Central Government
Jairam Thakur specifically expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Central Government on this occasion. He said that the Central Government has released ₹2,665 crore for the Mid-Day Meal scheme and ₹18 crore to promote natural farming. He said that this amount is proving to be extremely helpful for the development and disaster management efforts of the state.
Appeal to the State Government
The former Chief Minister requested the state government to ensure that the relief funds sent by the Center are delivered to the needy with complete impartiality and transparency. He said that in this difficult time, there should be no discrimination of any kind and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that every eligible person receives timely and appropriate assistance.
Fulfill Responsibility with Dedication and Commitment
Jairam Thakur appealed to all Panchayat representatives to remain engaged in relief efforts with complete dedication and commitment during this time of crisis. He said that relief efforts can only be effective through active and responsible leadership at the local level. The role of people working at the Panchayat level is most important and their activeness can ensure that quick assistance reaches the needy.
