Himachal allows shops to operate 24 Hours, expands youth employment support

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Shimla, June 10

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that shops and commercial establishments across the state can now operate round the clock following amendments to the state’s labor laws. The move is aimed at providing greater flexibility to businesses while improving convenience for consumers.

The decision was announced during a review meeting of the Labor and Employment Department, where the chief minister said amendments have been made to the Himachal Pradesh Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1969, and related rules to strengthen implementation and modernize the regulatory framework.

Sukhu said allowing businesses to remain open 24 hours a day would support commercial activity and offer customers more flexibility in accessing services and goods.

The chief minister also directed officials to fully digitize all services provided by the Labor and Employment Department, including the issuance of certificates and licenses. He said the initiative would make government services more accessible and reduce inconvenience for citizens.

Reviewing welfare and employment programs, Sukhu instructed the department to ensure that benefits under various schemes reach eligible beneficiaries without delay.

Highlighting the government’s focus on employment generation, he said the Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Start up Yojana continues to support young entrepreneurs through financial assistance for the purchase of electric vehicles.

According to the chief minister, 500 additional youth will receive a 50 percent subsidy for purchasing e-taxis during the 2026 27 financial year, for which Rs 50 crore has been earmarked in the state budget. He added that around 500 youth will also receive a 50 percent capital subsidy through Direct Benefit Transfer for the purchase of e-rickshaws during the current financial year.

The measures are expected to encourage entrepreneurship, create self employment opportunities, and strengthen economic activity while making government services more efficient and accessible across Himachal Pradesh.