CM Sukhu Says ₹713.87 Crore Worth 73 NABARD Projects Approved, Calls Ending of Revenue Deficit Grant Unjust for Hill States
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired a meeting of MLAs from Una, Hamirpur and Sirmaur districts to finalize priorities for the financial year 2026–27. He said that during 2025–26, the state government secured approval for 73 NABARD projects worth ₹713.87 crore.
Out of these, 55 MLA-priority projects worth ₹512.31 crore are related to the Public Works Department, while 18 projects worth ₹201.56 crore pertain to the Jal Shakti Department. The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure full utilization of funds and submit reimbursement claims to NABARD before March 15, 2026.
CM Sukhu said the state government has completed three years focused on welfare policies, transparent governance and major reforms, with the aim of strengthening the economy, empowering youth and women, and making Himachal Pradesh a green-energy-driven and self-reliant state.
He strongly criticized the 16th Finance Commission’s decision to discontinue the revenue deficit grant, calling it harmful for hill states like Himachal Pradesh. He stated that the decision would cause a loss of nearly ₹50,000 crore to the state and urged the Centre to restore the grant and provide a special financial package.
During the meeting, MLAs raised various demands related to roads, sewerage, healthcare, education, tourism, drinking water schemes and infrastructure development. The Chief Minister assured them of positive consideration.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, Vice Chairman of State Planning Commission Bhawani Singh Pathania, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta and senior officials were present at the meeting.
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