A first in India: Himachal govt plans doorstep healthcare for people aged 70 and above
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In probably what could be for the first time in the country, the Himachal Pradesh government is considering home-based medical care for senior citizens aged 70 and above.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while addressing a public meeting at the government’s ‘Gaon Ke Dwar’ programme in Putdiyal panchayat of his home constituency Nadaun in Hamirpur district, shared that provision for this initiative, named ‘Doorstep Treatment’, would be included in the next state budget.
The initiative probably marks the first time a state government in India has prioritised senior healthcare through in-home treatment rather than expanding hospital infrastructure.
Explaining the need for the ‘Doorstep Treatment’ scheme, the CM addressed requests from locals to open a new health sub-centre in Putdiyal.
“Instead of building more hospitals, this government will ensure that the elderly receive quality healthcare at home,” he said, adding that this approach aligns with the administration’s commitment to citizen welfare beyond traditional guarantees.
Political remarks & financial challenges
The Chief Minister’s address included a critique of the previous state government, accusing it of financial mismanagement that burdened the state with a debt of Rs 20,000 crore.
Sukhu also demanded Rs 4,500 crore owed to the state by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and pointed to Rs 9,000 crore tied up in the National Pension System (NPS) for state employees.
He accused the former BJP-led administration of neglecting healthcare and education, claiming that 900 unnecessary institutions were opened, leading to wastage of resources while core sectors suffered.
Rs 100 crore tourism project for Dehra
During his visit, CM Sukhu announced a Rs 100 crore initiative to promote tourism in Dehra, a region rich in scenic beauty around Pong Lake. With plans to introduce Shikara rides, houseboats, jetties, and cruises, the project aims to establish Dehra as a year-round tourist destination, boosting the local economy.
On Tuesday, the Chief Minister inaugurated a new office in Dehra, underscoring the administration’s efforts to decentralise governance and make services accessible beyond Shimla. “People of Dehra will no longer have to travel to Shimla for their administrative works,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to regional development.
