Himachal Pradesh is progressing with its green hydrogen programme and is well-positioned to become a leader in clean energy, stated Naresh Chauhan, Principal Media Advisor to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on July 17.
Chauhan welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of India’s first hydrogen-powered train in Haryana, describing it as a significant step in the country’s transition to clean energy. He affirmed that Himachal Pradesh had already begun efforts towards producing green hydrogen.
“We welcome the Prime Minister’s launch of the hydrogen-powered train. Hydrogen is the fuel of the future, and it is encouraging that India is moving in that direction. At the same time, Himachal Pradesh had already begun work on green hydrogen and had even submitted proposals for hydrogen production and pilot projects,” Chauhan said.
He explained that the state government had explored the use of its substantial hydropower resources to produce green hydrogen and had proposed its application on routes such as the Kalka-Shimla railway.
“The Chief Minister made it clear soon after assuming office that Himachal must move towards green hydrogen. We are a state blessed with clean hydropower and solar energy, making Himachal one of the best-suited states for green hydrogen production,” Chauhan added.
Regarding the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, Chauhan urged that it serve as a platform for meaningful debate including voices from both the ruling party and the Opposition.
“Democracy is strengthened when the voices of the Opposition are respected. The government should listen to elected representatives across party lines and incorporate constructive suggestions. Parliament should not become a place where only the government’s voice prevails,” he stated.
On Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, Chauhan appealed to the Centre to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation.
“Sonam Wangchuk has the support of people across the country. If he is raising concerns, the government should speak with him directly. His voice deserves to be heard rather than ignored,” he said.
Chauhan criticised the management of the NEET examination process, highlighting the uncertainty and disappointment faced by millions of students. He also accused the Union government of insufficiently addressing unemployment, inflation, and youth concerns.
He alleged that BJP Members of Parliament from Himachal Pradesh failed to effectively represent the state’s interests, particularly after the devastating natural disaster in 2023.
“When Himachal faced its biggest natural disaster in 2023, we expected our MPs to raise the state’s concerns strongly both inside and outside Parliament. Unfortunately, we did not see that level of representation,” Chauhan said.
He added that the state requires stronger financial assistance and support from the Centre on various issues.
In response to BJP criticism of the Congress campaign regarding alleged irregularities in Ram Temple donations, Chauhan stated that the Congress party has deep respect for Lord Ram and is seeking transparency.
“Congress does not need a certificate from the BJP on its faith in Lord Ram. If questions are being raised regarding donations or trust management, they should be answered transparently,” he said.
Chauhan called for a Supreme Court-supervised impartial investigation into the allegations concerning temple donation management.
“The concerns of the people should not be ignored. Transparency and accountability are essential whenever public faith and public money are involved,” he added.
He emphasised the need for governments to remain responsive to public concerns and to strengthen democratic institutions through dialogue, accountability, and inclusive decision-making.
Chauhan further detailed advancements in the state’s public healthcare system under Chief Minister Sukhu’s leadership, noting expanded super-speciality programmes and increased nursing and paramedical training to address skilled workforce shortages.
“Healthcare is the most important sector for any state and society. After assuming office, the Chief Minister decided that we must strengthen healthcare through technology, better services and improved infrastructure, particularly in rural areas,” he said.
The government has installed robotic surgery systems in three government hospitals and introduced PET scan facilities at two locations, with one already operational and the other soon to be functional.
Additional medical technology upgrades include advanced 3-Tesla MRI machines, 1.5-Tesla MRI systems in eight hospitals, digital mammography units at four locations, and portable X-ray machines across 42 healthcare institutions.
“The objective is to replace medical technology that had been in use for nearly two decades and provide world-class healthcare facilities in government hospitals,” Chauhan said.
The state is also decentralising healthcare delivery outside Shimla by developing approximately 70 upgraded healthcare centres equipped with specialist doctors, modern diagnostic facilities, and sufficient medical staff to reduce the need for patients to travel to Indira Gandhi Medical College for routine specialised treatments.
Chauhan reported that over the past three years, the government has appointed 3,432 healthcare personnel, including doctors, super-specialists, nurses, and technical staff.
He noted a significant expansion in postgraduate medical education, with 38 new PG seats added and the number of postgraduate students in government medical colleges now exceeding 600.
