Himachal Pradesh at a Critical Juncture Amid Economic Crises: CM Sukhu Urges Center to Release ₹23,000 Crore Pending Funds

Himachal Pradesh at a Critical Juncture Amid Economic Crises: CM Sukhu Urges Center to Release ₹23,000 Crore Pending Funds

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently made a strong appeal to the Central Government, urging them to release the state’s pending funds of ₹23,000 crore. He emphasized that if the central funds are disbursed, Himachal Pradesh could swiftly emerge as the most prosperous and self-reliant state in India. Addressing a private media program via virtual mode from Shimla, CM Sukhu elaborated on how these funds are crucial for the state’s economic stability and its long-term vision of self-sufficiency.

Pending Disaster Relief and Pension Funds
One of the major components of the pending amount is ₹9,300 crore, which is associated with disaster relief from the previous year. These funds were estimated based on the necessary post-disaster assessments made after natural calamities severely affected the state. However, despite the pressing need, the central government has yet to release these funds. Sukhu pointed out the disparity in the treatment, as neighboring state Uttarakhand has already received ₹8,000 crore for similar circumstances.

Another crucial amount, ₹9,300 crore, is related to the New Pension Scheme (NPS). These funds have been withheld by the Center for an extended period, which has caused significant financial pressure on the state government.

Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) Dues
Adding to the state’s financial strain, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) owes Himachal Pradesh ₹4,500 crore. This is despite a Supreme Court ruling in favor of the state, directing BBMB to clear the outstanding dues. The non-payment of this significant amount has further hindered the state’s financial planning and development goals.

Allegations Against BJP Leadership
In a candid statement, CM Sukhu accused the state’s BJP leadership of misleading Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the financial situation of Himachal Pradesh. He argued that the state’s financial situation has been misrepresented, leading to delays in fund allocation. Sukhu clarified that under his government’s tenure, the state’s treasury has never gone into overdraft, a fact verified by both the Reserve Bank of India and the Union Ministry of Finance.

Vision for Himachal’s Future
Despite these challenges, CM Sukhu reiterated his commitment to transforming Himachal Pradesh into a self-reliant state by 2027 and one of India’s most prosperous states by 2032. He highlighted the progressive steps his government has taken to lay the foundation for an “Atmanirbhar Himachal” through innovative governance reforms.

The current administration has launched several initiatives aimed at improving the state’s financial health and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The CM emphasized that Himachal Pradesh’s prosperity is contingent on the timely release of the pending central funds.

Himachal Pradesh is at a critical juncture, with its future economic growth and self-reliance goals closely tied to the release of ₹23,000 crore from the Central Government. CM Sukhu’s persistent efforts reflect the urgency of the situation, as these funds are essential to drive the state’s development and disaster recovery efforts.

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