Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while addressing a massive gathering at the *Jan Sankalp Sammelan* held at Paddal Ground in Mandi on Monday, outlined the significant challenges faced by the state government over the last three years—from economic pressures to political hurdles and unprecedented natural calamities—and how his administration stood firm through each crisis.
The Chief Minister accused the previous BJP government of leaving the state burdened with **₹75,000 crore in debt**, a result of “extravagance and financial mismanagement.” He said the present government was forced to take fresh loans merely to service this inherited liability. He added that an additional burden of **₹10,000 crore in unpaid employee arrears** was also left by the previous regime.
CM Sukhu further alleged that the former BJP government sold **4,500 bighas of land for just ₹1.12 crore**, without even completing the registry, under the guise of a customized package. He asserted that the current government is committed to protecting Himachal’s resources and ensuring that the state’s rights are not exploited. Several decisive steps, he said, have been taken to make Himachal Pradesh a self-reliant and prosperous state by asserting its rightful claims before the Centre and neighbouring states.
Highlighting key achievements, the Chief Minister said that the government secured a legal victory in the **Wildflower Hall case**, ensuring an annual revenue of **₹20 crore** for the state. Similarly, through persistent efforts, royalty from the **Karchham–Wangtoo hydro project** was increased from 12% to 18%, adding **₹150 crore** annually to state revenue. He further pointed out that while the previous BJP government earned **₹450 crore** in four years through liquor licence renewals, the current excise policy generated the same amount **within a single year**.
Taking a dig at the opposition, CM Sukhu said the BJP is indulging in personal attacks, even mocking his decision to use an Alto car. “But in 2027, our performance will bring us back to power in a 52-seater Volvo,” he said, asserting that those committed to public service have nothing to fear. He reiterated that Himachal Pradesh would become a fully self-reliant state by 2027.
Underlining the government’s people-centric approach, the Chief Minister highlighted the **Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana**, under which orphaned children have been legally adopted as “Children of the State.” This, he said, was not a political promise but an act of compassion. He also mentioned the government’s extensive relief efforts during the recent natural disaster.
Defending the decision to restore **Old Pension Scheme (OPS)**, he said it was taken to ensure long-term social security for employees and their families, not for political gain. Reaffirming the Congress Party’s commitment to national unity, he recalled that the party had sacrificed two Prime Ministers for the country’s integrity.
CM Sukhu urged citizens to support the government’s mission to make Himachal Pradesh a **self-reliant and prosperous state within the next two years**, asserting, “Together, we will redefine the destiny and image of Himachal.”
