DHARAMSALA: Former Chief Minister and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar revealed that a timely appeal to Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has brought significant relief aid for Himachal Pradesh.
Shanta Kumar said that two days ago, CM Saini had announced a contribution of ₹5 crore each to Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir for disaster relief. "I wrote him a letter thanking him for his generosity, but also mentioned—half in complaint—that nothing had been announced for Himachal, a small hill state and Haryana’s close neighbour, which too is reeling under a severe disaster, " he shared.
"Yesterday afternoon, I received a call from Saini. He said, ‘I have received your complaint and I am sending ₹5 crore for Himachal as well.’ This is a great gesture of generosity on his part, for which I extend heartfelt thanks, " Shanta Kumar added, calling it a “new chapter in Himachal’s disaster relief history.”
The senior leader also made an appeal ahead of his birthday on September 12. Inviting friends to visit him between 10 a.m. and 12 noon, he urged them to maintain simplicity. "Himachal is facing a terrible disaster. I will celebrate my birthday without pomp. No one should bring any gifts—your blessings and love will be the greatest gift, " he said.