Governance – President Droupadi Murmu to Visit Himachal for Six-Day Official Tour
Governance – President Droupadi Murmu is set to begin a six-day official visit to Himachal Pradesh from April 27 to May 2, according to a provisional schedule shared by the President’s Secretariat. The visit will include key destinations such as Shimla, the Atal Tunnel near Rohtang, and Palampur, with a mix of official engagements and ceremonial appearances.
Travel Plan and Stay in Shimla
The President will depart from Rashtrapati Bhavan on April 27 and head to Palam Airport before flying to Chandigarh. From there, she is scheduled to board an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter to reach Kalyani Helipad, located near Rashtrapati Niwas in Mashobra, on the outskirts of Shimla. During her stay in the state capital region, Rashtrapati Niwas will serve as her official residence.
April 28 has been kept largely open for engagements that are still under consideration. Officials indicated that some events, including possible inaugurations, are yet to be finalized and may be confirmed closer to the date.
Visit to Atal Tunnel and Interaction with BRO
On April 29, the President will travel to the Atal Tunnel region, a key infrastructure landmark in the state. The itinerary includes landing at Sissu Helipad followed by a road journey to the North Portal of the tunnel. There, officials from the Border Roads Organisation will brief her on the project and its strategic importance.
The visit will also include a walkthrough of the tunnel’s ingress section and a subsequent stop at the South Portal. A presentation is planned in the Model Room, along with an opportunity for photographs. The schedule concludes with a brief high tea before the President returns to Mashobra later in the day.
Convocation Ceremony in Palampur
On April 30, President Murmu will travel to Palampur, where she will attend the 17th convocation ceremony of CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University as the chief guest. The event is expected to bring together students, faculty members, and dignitaries from across the region.
Following the ceremony, she will return to Shimla the same day. In the evening, she is scheduled to visit the Army Training Command, reflecting the importance of the region in India’s defense framework.
Official Engagements and Public Interaction
May 1 has been reserved for official duties, including an ‘At Home’ function and other scheduled meetings. Such events typically involve interactions with local dignitaries, officials, and representatives from various sectors, offering an opportunity for dialogue and engagement.
Return to Delhi
The President’s visit will conclude on May 2. She will depart from Mashobra by helicopter to Chandigarh and then board a flight back to Delhi, marking the end of her Himachal Pradesh tour.
Tentative Nature of Schedule
Officials have clarified that the itinerary remains subject to change. Some engagements are currently marked as tentative or reserved, and adjustments may be made depending on logistical or administrative considerations.
The visit highlights the continued importance of Himachal Pradesh in national administrative, developmental, and strategic contexts, while also providing a platform for institutional and regional engagement.