Una, March 1:- Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that Una district has established a new identity of development in recent years. He highlighted remarkable progress across industrial, educational, and infrastructure sectors and called for collective efforts and a positive outlook to further elevate the district’s recognition at national and international levels.
He was addressing the 52nd State-Level Annual Convention of the Himotkarsh Sahitya Sanskriti Evam Jan Kalyan Parishad as the Chief Guest on Sunday.

**Tribute to Founder Late Kanwar Hari Singh**
Paying tribute to the Parishad’s founder, late Kanwar Hari Singh, the Deputy Chief Minister described him as a visionary and dedicated personality whose work in education, social service, and journalism gave new direction to society. He noted that the establishment and successful operation of Himotkarsh College for two decades reflected his commitment. The college is now being run by the government.
The Parishad also presented a contribution of ?1,01,000 to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

**?2,500 Crore Bulk Drug Park Project Progressing**
Agnihotri informed that the Bulk Drug Park project in Una, with an estimated cost of around ?2,500 crore, is progressing swiftly. Land leveling work has begun, and tenders for further construction are being issued.
He said that Una being selected for one of the three national Bulk Drug Parks in the country is a matter of pride for the state. The project will strengthen Himachal Pradesh’s position in the global pharmaceutical sector, reduce dependence on China for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), and boost self-reliance in medicines.

**?130 Crore for Development of Chintpurni Temple**
The Deputy Chief Minister stated that approximately ?130 crore has been allocated in the first phase for the development, expansion, and beautification of Mata Shri Chintpurni Temple. Instructions have been issued to complete all formalities promptly and begin work immediately, with daily monitoring to ensure timely completion.
He added that, on the lines of Vaishno Devi Temple and the large-scale infrastructure development at Vrindavan Dham, Chintpurni Dham will also be developed in a planned and grand manner. Modern facilities will be introduced to provide world-class amenities to devotees and promote religious tourism.

**Una on the Path of Progress**
Agnihotri said that a satellite centre of Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) is under construction in Una. An Indian Oil depot has already been established, and a gas pipeline has reached the district. These projects reflect Una’s development story.
He further mentioned that water transport possibilities in Gobind Sagar Lake under Kutlehar Assembly constituency are being explored from a tourism perspective. With unprecedented work in the water sector, household tap connections have been ensured, irrigation facilities expanded to fields, and cash crop production increased. The formation of Una Municipal Corporation and the construction of multiple bridges, including the Haroli–Som Bhadra bridge, have strengthened connectivity.

**Strengthening Education, Empowering Daughters**
The Deputy Chief Minister observed that while the district once lacked educational institutions, today the scenario has transformed. Girls are excelling in national-level examinations. Students from across the country are studying at Indian Institute of Information Technology Una, enhancing the district’s academic reputation.
He added that many personalities from Una are contributing significantly in cyber technology, medicine, and research in countries including the United States. He regularly interacts with such overseas Indians and encourages them to remain connected to their roots and guide local students.

**Honouring Bravehearts and Achievers**
During the ceremony, several distinguished individuals and institutions were honoured with Himotkarsh National Integration Awards and Himotkarsh Himachal Shri Awards for 2025–26.
Among the awardees, Shaheed Subedar Major Pawan Kumar (Sena Medal) from Shahpur, Kangra district, was posthumously conferred the Amar Shaheed Captain Amol Kalia Memorial Himotkarsh National Integration Bravery Award, which was received by his family.
Retired BSF Sub-Inspector Vyas Dev from Bathu village, Una, was honoured for his courage in ‘Operation Sindoor.’
Pushpa Rana, Vice-Captain of the Indian Women’s Kabaddi Team from Shillai, Sirmaur district, received the Best Young Talent (Sports) Award.
Dr. Sanjeev Sharma from Hamirpur was awarded for excellence in journalism, while Dr. Aniketa Sharma from Bilaspur was honoured for outstanding medical services.
Himachal Mandi Jan Kalyan Sabha (Registered), Delhi, was recognized for contributions in ophthalmology and social service.
Under the Himotkarsh Himachal Shri Awards 2025–26, Shiv Karan Rana from Dangoli village, Una, was honoured for his selection as District Judge in Jharkhand Judicial Services. Himachal Mahasabha, Chandigarh, received recognition as an outstanding social service organization, and noted litterateur Shyam Lal Sharma was honoured for excellence in writing, literature, and culture.
Additionally, state topper Deepika in BSc Microbiology was awarded ?25,000, a medal, and a citation. Students securing merit positions in Classes 10 and 12 were also felicitated, and assistance materials were distributed to the needy.
State President of the Parishad, Jitender Kanwar, welcomed the Deputy Chief Minister and presented a detailed account of the organization’s journey and achievements. Retired Brigadier Rajeev Thakur and several dignitaries, including former MLA O.P. Rattan and other prominent personalities, were present on the occasion.