The remote tribal valley of Pangi in Chamba district celebrated a significant milestone this week as it marked 40 years of the single-line administration system with a grand felicitation and reunion programme at Killar. The event brought together former administrators, local residents, students, sportspersons and dignitaries to commemorate four decades of administrative reforms that have transformed one of Himachal Pradesh’s most isolated regions.
Among the distinguished guests was retired IAS officer Subhash Chandra Negi, who was appointed the first Resident Commissioner of Pangi when the single-line administration system was introduced in 1986. Negi returned to the valley along with a delegation of former officers and officials who had served in the region during its formative years. The group, calling itself the “Pangi Pioneers”, revisited the valley to reconnect with residents and reflect on its remarkable developmental journey.
Addressing the gathering, Negi recalled the difficult conditions that prevailed in Pangi four decades ago. At the time, the valley lacked basic infrastructure, including roads, healthcare facilities, electricity and communication networks. He said the special administrative framework introduced under the single-line administration system helped accelerate development and improve the delivery of government services in the remote area.
Retired IAS officer and noted author KR Bharti highlighted the importance of creating the post of Resident Commissioner, which enabled quicker decision-making and better coordination among various government departments. He noted that several pioneering initiatives were undertaken during the early years, including the airlifting of heavy machinery into the valley, road construction and the introduction of Pangi’s first jeep service.
The visiting delegation also felicitated meritorious students, outstanding sportspersons and institutions that have contributed significantly to the region’s development over the years. Resident Commissioner Amandeep Singh welcomed the members of the “Pangi Pioneers” and lauded their contribution to the valley’s progress.
The delegation is currently touring different parts of Pangi, meeting old colleagues and residents while revisiting memories associated with the valley’s transformation over the past four decades.
Tehsildar meets officer who issued his first appointment letter