Shimla, May 18 (IANS) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Sukhu, on Monday congratulated party workers and the people of the state on the Congress’ impressive victory in Urban Local Body (ULB) elections. He said Congress-backed candidates won in 32 out of 47 municipal bodies, proving that the public has full faith in the policies and welfare programmes of the Congress government in the state.

Chief Minister Sukhu said the Congress-supported candidates received widespread public approval across all districts of the state and expressed gratitude to the voters for their overwhelming support.

He said this trust from the people inspires the Himachal government to work with even greater dedication, commitment and responsibility.

“The state government remains committed to effectively implementing public welfare schemes and ensuring that their benefits reach the people in the future as well,” said Chief Minister Sukhu in a statement here.

CM Sukhu said the Congress “believes in the ideology of equality, balanced development and the welfare of every section of society and these principles form the basis of the state government’s functioning”.

He said the BJP “practices politics that divides society on the basis of religion and caste”.

He further said the Congress has fulfilled all the promises made during the 2022 Assembly elections and has gone beyond its guarantees in delivering its commitments.

He said several schemes have been launched and effectively implemented for the welfare of women, labourers and marginalised sections of society.

“Significant reforms have also been made in the field of education and healthcare and positive results are visible.”

He said the state government has made serious efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

A historic increase has been made in the support price of milk. In addition, support prices are also being provided for naturally grown maize, wheat, barley, raw turmeric and ginger.

A ‘Kisaan Aayog’ has been established in the state and the long-pending demand of apple growers has been fulfilled by introducing the universal carton system.

The Chief Minister said all these measures have ensured the welfare of farmers and horticulturists and have paved the way for strengthening the rural economy of the state.

Congratulating all the winning candidates, the Chief Minister said that everyone must now work together to make Himachal Pradesh a self-reliant, strong and prosperous state.

–IANS

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