Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday to advocate for financial relief, royalty reforms in hydropower projects, and protection of local apple growers' interests. Sukhu urged the Prime Minister to release pending funds to the state and requested increased financial support to help Himachal achieve self-reliance by 2032.
Emphasising the state’s long-term development goals, CM Sukhu stated that Himachal is prioritising green energy, tourism, and hydropower to achieve self-sufficiency. He also urged the Prime Minister to set a definite timeline for transferring central public sector (CPSU) power projects back to the state after 40 years and called for increased royalty payments from these assets, especially those that have already recovered their costs.
He also called for the transfer of projects such as Baira-Syul from central undertakings to the state government. “The interests of the people of Himachal Pradesh must be protected, especially when power projects on our rivers have benefited neighbouring states,” Sukhu emphasised.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over apple imports from Turkey and other countries, highlighting the negative impact on the local apple industry. He urged the Centre to take measures to protect the interests of Himachali apple farmers.
During the same visit, CM Sukhu met with Finance Commission Chairman Dr. Arvind Panagariya and submitted an additional memorandum requesting increased fund allocations for Himachal Pradesh. He advocated for a policy shift that acknowledges the unique geographic and economic challenges faced by hilly states like Himachal.
Sukhu also called for a green bonus in recognition of the state’s efforts in ecological conservation and environmental protection. Expressing concern over declining GST revenues, he sought adequate compensation to address the shortfall. Additionally, he demanded an increase in the revenue deficit grant and urged that it should not be phased out.
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