Himachal Pradesh celebrated its 40th statehood day today with chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal highlighting the rapid progress made by the hill state during the period.
On this day in 1971 HP was conferred statehood and became 18th state of Indian union.
"Starting its independent journey on January 25, 1971, HP has made rapid progress and has emerged not only as a model for hill area development but also a pioneer for other states," the CM said addressing a gathering in his native Hamirpur district.
Highlighting the progress made by the state in these years, he said the per capita income of the people which was Rs651 in 1971 has increased to Rs46,000 and literacy rate has increased from 31 to 84 per cent in the period.
"From a modest 7740 km of road length in 1971 the hill state has 31,000 km roads today," he added.
Dhumal also announced release of 10% arrears to the employees and pensioners on the basis of revision of pay scale on Punjab pattern with effect from January one, 2006 and including 15,000 more people in social security net.
Earlier, Dhumal unfurled the national flag at the function and took salute from marching contingents.
