Achieves 0.78 HDI; CM Sukhu releases ‘Himachal Pradesh Report 2025’
TNR News Network
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday (October 28, 2025) released the ‘Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report–2025’ in Shimla, calling it a reflection of the state’s progress, resilience and people’s aspirations.
Sukhu said the report captures the collective achievements of Himachalis who, despite tough geographical and climatic conditions, have made remarkable strides in every sector.
According to the report, Himachal Pradesh has achieved a Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.78, well above the national average of 0.63, highlighting major improvements in education, health and living standards.
Education, health drive progress
The Chief Minister said Himachal has recently attained the status of a fully literate state, with its literacy rate reaching 99.30 per cent. National surveys have also lauded the state’s education system. Himachal now ranks fifth in the country, a sharp rise from the 21st position in 2021.
In the health sector, the infant mortality rate has dropped to 21 per 1,000 live births, reflecting the success of the government’s healthcare initiatives. The state’s average life expectancy has also increased to 72 years, supported by improved health infrastructure and welfare schemes.
Focus on inclusive development
CM Sukhu said that the government’s vision of inclusive and sustainable growth goes beyond infrastructure and industry. “We are equally focused on education, health, women empowerment, elderly care and rural development,” he said.
He added that the poverty rate has fallen below 7 per cent, owing to continuous investments in social sectors and targeted welfare programmes. “Our aim is to ensure that development reaches every household and no one is left behind,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Climate change a mounting challenge
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the increasing impact of climate change, particularly on Himalayan states like Himachal. This year’s heavy rainfall, landslides and floods caused significant damage to life and property, he said.
“Himachal has always pursued eco-friendly development and prioritised the conservation of natural resources,” Sukhu noted, adding that climate adaptation and resilience are now key pillars of state planning.
Outlining new initiatives, CM Sukhu said the government is actively promoting green entrepreneurship and renewable energy. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme, projects worth Rs 680 crore have been launched to empower youth.
The state is offering a 50% subsidy on e-taxi purchases to encourage self-employment and sustainable transport. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Solar Self-Employment Scheme, individuals are being provided interest subsidies of 4% in non-tribal areas and 5% in tribal areas for setting up solar power projects ranging from 100 kW to 2 MW.
Himachal has also become the first hill state to adopt an Electric Vehicle Policy, with an ambitious target to make the entire public transport system electric by 2030.
“Himachal’s journey of progress reflects the spirit of its people — resilient, hardworking and forward-looking,” CM Sukhu said while releasing the report. “We are building not just an economically strong state, but a sustainable and equitable Himachal for future generations.”
