Delhi (Kameshwar Sharma): CM Sukhu Makes Strong Pitch in Delhi as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu raised key financial and development concerns during the 11th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog in New Delhi. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on the theme “Inclusive Human Development for a Developed India.” During the discussions, Sukhu highlighted GST losses, disaster aid requirements, hydropower dues, and the need for greater financial support for Himachal Pradesh.
CM Sukhu Raises Financial Challenges
During the meeting, CM Sukhu highlighted several financial issues affecting Himachal Pradesh. Moreover, he urged the Centre to form a high-level committee to assess the state’s fiscal challenges.
The proposed committee would evaluate the impact of the end of Revenue Deficit Grants, GST-related losses, natural disasters, and reduced benefits from hydropower projects. Therefore, Sukhu requested that the Centre provide financial assistance based on the committee’s findings.
Demand for Higher Financial Support
The Chief Minister stated that the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants has significantly affected the state’s economy. Furthermore, he argued that the ₹25,000 crore assistance provided so far is insufficient to offset the losses.
Therefore, he requested the Centre to increase the support package to ₹50,000 crore. According to Sukhu, additional funding is necessary to maintain development projects and public welfare programs.
GST Losses and Pending Dues
CM Sukhu also raised concerns about revenue losses caused by the GST system. He stated that Himachal Pradesh has suffered substantial financial losses over the past eight years due to the current tax structure.
In addition, he highlighted pending dues from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). According to the Chief Minister, nearly ₹7,000 crore remains unpaid to the state.
Focus on Hydropower Benefits
The Chief Minister pointed out that Himachal Pradesh generates nearly 13,000 megawatts of electricity. However, the state does not receive an adequate share of free power benefits.
Therefore, he urged the Centre to address the issue and ensure fair compensation for the state’s contribution to the country’s energy sector.
Himachal’s Ecological Contribution
Sukhu described Himachal Pradesh as the nation’s “Green Frontier.” Moreover, he emphasized the state’s significant environmental contribution.
He cited studies indicating that Himachal provides ecological services worth approximately ₹90,000 crore annually. However, the state receives little financial compensation for these benefits. Therefore, he called for greater recognition and support.
Relief for Natural Disaster Losses
Natural disasters were another major concern raised during the meeting. Sukhu noted that Himachal Pradesh has suffered extensive damage from floods, landslides, and other calamities in recent years.
However, the state is still waiting for the release of the ₹1,500 crore special assistance package announced by the Centre. Therefore, he requested immediate financial support to strengthen recovery efforts.
Education and Human Development Achievements
The CM Sukhu Makes Strong Pitch in Delhi also highlighted Himachal Pradesh’s achievements in education and human development. He noted that the state became fully literate in 2025.
Moreover, Himachal significantly improved its ranking in school education performance indicators. The state also maintains a higher education enrollment rate that exceeds the national average.
Push for Green Energy Projects
Sukhu emphasized the state’s commitment to renewable energy development. Himachal Pradesh is actively promoting solar power, green hydrogen, pumped storage, and battery storage projects.
Therefore, he sought continued support from the Centre to accelerate green energy investments and strengthen sustainable development.
Tourism and Infrastructure Development
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of improving air connectivity to boost tourism. In particular, he raised the issue of expanding Gaggal Airport.
According to CM Sukhu Makes Strong Pitch in Delhi, better connectivity will help transform Himachal Pradesh into a major international tourism destination and generate new economic opportunities.
Anti-Drug Campaign and Coordination
Sukhu also informed the gathering about the state’s ongoing anti-drug campaign. Moreover, he emphasized the need for stronger intelligence systems and better coordination among agencies.
Therefore, he requested additional support from the Centre to enhance enforcement efforts and combat drug trafficking more effectively.
Key Highlights of the CM Sukhu Makes Strong Pitch in Delhi:
- CM Sukhu attended the 11th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog in Delhi.
- He raised concerns over GST losses, disaster aid, and revenue deficit grants.
- The Chief Minister sought a high-level committee to assess Himachal’s financial challenges.
- Sukhu demanded increased financial support and pending hydropower dues.
- He highlighted achievements in education, green energy, tourism, and anti-drug initiatives.
