In a crucial meeting held in the national capital, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to press for urgent financial assistance for his state. The discussion, which took place amid ongoing economic challenges in the hill state, highlighted the pressing need for central support to address fiscal deficits and revive key development projects.
Sukhu presented a detailed memorandum outlining the state’s financial woes, exacerbated by recent natural calamities, reduced revenue collections, and increased expenditure on relief and rehabilitation efforts. He emphasized that Himachal Pradesh, despite its contributions to national tourism and hydropower, has been grappling with a severe liquidity crunch that threatens ongoing infrastructure initiatives and welfare schemes.
The Chief Minister specifically requested immediate release of funds under various central schemes, including special assistance packages for disaster-affected areas. He also urged for enhanced tax devolution shares and relaxation in borrowing limits to enable the state government to meet its commitments towards salaries, pensions, and development works.
Finance Minister Sitharaman assured the CM of sympathetic consideration and directed officials to examine the demands expeditiously. Sources indicate that a high-level committee might be constituted to assess Himachal’s financial requirements in detail.
This meeting assumes significance as several other states have also been voicing similar concerns over fiscal federalism. Himachal’s plea comes at a time when the central government is finalizing its budget allocations, making it a pivotal moment for securing additional resources.
Political analysts view this outreach as a strategic move by the Congress-led government in Himachal to strengthen its position ahead of upcoming assembly sessions. The outcome of these discussions could set precedents for other financially strained states seeking central aid.
As the monsoon season approaches again, with fears of further landslides and floods, timely financial support becomes imperative for Himachal Pradesh to build resilience against climate vulnerabilities. The state remains hopeful for a positive response from the Centre to sustain its growth trajectory.