Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Himachal Cabinet Approves Cancer Centre, Zipline Project
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, approved several important projects and policies.
They decided to build a cancer care centre in Hamirpur and create 11 new departments there.
They also approved the construction of a 4.3 km zipline near Dharamsala, which is expected to be a major tourist attraction.
Additionally, they approved the allotment of four hydroelectric projects and the construction of a new ice skating rink in Shimla.
The cabinet also adopted a policy to explore and develop geothermal energy resources in the state.
They decided to levy a cess on petrol and diesel to support welfare schemes for orphans and widows.
Furthermore, they made changes to the Senior Resident Doctor Policy and approved the filling of various vacancies in different departments.
The cabinet also extended the Himachal Pradesh Industrial Investment Policy to promote industrial development and attract investment in the state.
Additionally, the Chief Minister announced a Rs 250-crore riverfront project for Manali to bolster tourism in the region.
The state government is focused on establishing Himachal Pradesh as a global hub for nature, religious, adventure, spiritual, and wellness tourism.
They are also encouraging events like the Winter Carnival and developing eco-tourism sites to boost tourism and promote self-employment at the local level.
Himachal Pradesh Cabinet approved the establishment of a cancer care centre in Hamirpur with 11 new departments.
A 4.3 km zipline project near Dharamsala, touted as Asia's longest, received approval at an estimated cost of Rs 7.41 crore.
Four hydroelectric projects were allotted to successful bidders after the completion of the tendering process.
The cabinet approved the construction of a new ice skating rink in Shimla and the adoption of a geothermal energy policy.
An ordinance to levy 'Orphan and Widow Cess' on petrol and high-speed diesel was approved to strengthen welfare schemes.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a Rs 250-crore riverfront development project in Manali to bolster tourism.
The state government is developing eco-tourism sites and promoting adventure tourism with 245 identified trekking routes.
- Who
- Himachal Pradesh Cabinet under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
- What
- Approved various projects and policies including a cancer centre, zipline project, and geothermal energy policy; announced a riverfront development project in Manali
- When
- January 19-20, 2024
- Where
- Himachal Pradesh, India
- Why
- To promote tourism, welfare schemes, and sustainable industrial development
Development Focus
Environmental Concerns
Tourism Projects
Development Focus
The government is focused on enhancing tourism through projects like the riverfront development in Manali and the zipline near Dharamsala, aiming to boost the state's economy and create jobs.
Environmental Concerns
Some environmental groups express concerns about the potential impact of these projects on the state's fragile ecosystems and natural resources.
- Cancer Centre Location
- Dr Radhakrishnan Government Medical College, Hamirpur
- Zipline Project Length
- 4.3 km
- Zipline Project Cost
- Rs 7.41 crore
- Hydroelectric Projects Allotted
- 6 MW Khauli-II, 24 MW Malana-III, 21.9 MW Manalsu, 18 MW Dhancho
- New Ice Skating Rink
- Shimla
- Geothermal Energy Policy
- National Policy on Geothermal Energy
- Orphan and Widow Cess
- Levied on petrol and high-speed diesel
- Senior Resident Doctor Policy
- 66.66% quota for in-service GDOs/MOs, 33.33% for direct candidates
- Riverfront Project Cost
- Rs 250 crore
- Eco-Tourism Sites Allotted
- 11 sites by November 2025, 27 sites in final stage
- Trekking Routes Identified
- 245 routes
- Zoological Park Cost
- Rs 619 crore
