In a significant meeting held today in New Delhi, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss a wide range of pressing issues concerning the state’s economic future and development. Chief Minister Sukhu raised key concerns, requesting substantial financial assistance and an expedited release of pending funds, which are vital for implementing the state government’s ambitious plans to steer Himachal Pradesh toward self-reliance by 2032.
The Chief Minister emphasized the state’s ongoing efforts in fostering growth across various sectors, including tourism, green energy, and power, which he said were central to the government’s vision of a sustainable and self-sufficient future. He informed Prime Minister Modi about several schemes currently in motion to strengthen the state’s economic framework, aimed at creating a resilient economy that will thrive independently in the coming years.
One of the critical points raised by Sukhu was the issue of hydropower projects, which have long been a matter of contention between the state and central authorities. The Chief Minister made a fervent plea to safeguard the interests of Himachal Pradesh in these projects, urging the government to fix a clear timeline for returning control of hydropower assets to the state once their terms of operation are completed. Sukhu also highlighted the issue of free royalty on these projects and requested that power plants under Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), which have been operational for over 40 years, be handed back to the state, along with increased royalty payments.
In addition, Sukhu turned the spotlight on the issue of apple cultivation, which remains a backbone of Himachal’s agrarian economy. He voiced concerns regarding the influx of apple imports from Turkey and other foreign markets, which has been adversely affecting local apple growers. The Chief Minister appealed to the Prime Minister for steps to protect the interests of apple farmers in Himachal Pradesh, emphasizing the importance of preserving local agriculture from external competition.
Further, Sukhu provided an update on ongoing infrastructural development in the state, particularly the Kangra airport project, which is expected to play a significant role in improving connectivity and boosting tourism. He also advocated for resolving the issue of excess land returns and enhancing royalty rates for projects that have long since recovered their costs.
Prime Minister Modi, who listened attentively to the Chief Minister’s concerns, assured Sukhu of the central government’s consideration of the matters discussed. Modi expressed his support for addressing the issue of apple imports, while assuring that the state’s other concerns would be reviewed sympathetically, keeping in mind the overall development needs of Himachal Pradesh.
This meeting marks another step in the continued efforts to strengthen the relationship between the state and central government, as both parties work towards the shared goal of economic prosperity and self-sufficiency for Himachal Pradesh in the coming decade. Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh, Prabodh Saxena, was also present during the discussion.
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