Shimla, April 28 -- Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday inaugurated a 500 KW solar power project at Dharech gram panchayat of Kasumpti assembly constituency in Shimla district making it state's first green panchayat. Speaking on the occasion, the CM said that it was one of the significant step of the present state government towards sustainable development. "With this achievement, Dharech has become Himachal's first 'Green Panchayat'. Constructed at an approximate cost of Rs.1.94 crore, the project commenced in January 2025 and was successfully connected to the electricity grid on March 30, 2026," said the CM. The CM said that solar power plant was generating around 3,000 units of clean energy per day, with an estimated annual production of nearly eight lakh units. As per the agreement, the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited will purchase this electricity at a rate of Rs.3.50 per unit. This is expected to generate a steady annual income of about Rs 28 lakh for the Gram Panchayat thereby supporting its financial sustainability. He said that this project, with an estimated lifespan of 25 years, is an important initiative towards promoting sustainable development, clean energy and rural empowerment in the state. CM Sukhu, while addressing a public gathering in Chiyog, announced Rs.5.50 crore for the construction of a new building for the Government Senior Secondary School, Chiyog. He said that CBSE curriculum would be started in this school the from next year. To address electricity issues in the area, the CM announced Rs.16 crore for the construction of a 66 KV substation, which will be completed within one year. CM Sukhu also inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 15 development projects worth approximately Rs.51.10 crore at Dharech and Cheog in Kasumpti assembly constituency. Apart from this, the CM laid the foundation stone for the Cheog Bazaar to Mehna village road and the Talai-Dehna to Karyal village road....