TNR News Network
DHARAMSHALA:
Himachal Pradesh BJP spokesperson Sanjay Sharma has accused the state Congress government of showing “ingratitude” towards the Centre despite significant assistance in developing the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
Sharma said that while the Union government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making continuous efforts to strengthen Himachal’s health services, the state leadership fails to acknowledge or thank the Centre for its support. “Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu seeks help from Union ministers but does not even express gratitude after receiving it. This attitude is unacceptable,” Sharma remarked.
Major healthcare boost with Rs 1,422-crore JICA project
Highlighting a major initiative, Sharma said the Union Health Ministry, under Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, has secured approval for a comprehensive Rs 1,422-crore project in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Under this project, Himachal Pradesh will receive Rs 1,138 crore as external loan assistance. Of this, 80% (about ₹1,024 crore) will be borne by the Government of India, while the remaining 20% (approximately ₹113.8 crore) will be contributed by the state government.
The funding will be used to build a ₹300-crore cancer hospital in Hamirpur and to strengthen facilities at Dr RP Medical College Tanda, as well as the medical colleges in Mandi, Nahan, Chamba and Shimla. Additionally, three Tesla MRI machines will be installed in Mandi and Chamba and robotic surgery systems will be introduced across major medical institutions.
According to Sharma, part of the funds will also go toward developing 67 model health institutions across the state and digitising their services to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
