Jairam Thakur Attacks Congress: Spreading Confusion on RDG While Ignoring Centre’s Support for Himachal’s Development
Himachal Pradesh Opposition Leader Jairam Thakur has strongly criticized the Congress government over the RDG (Revenue Deficit Grant) issue. He accused Congress of using this sensitive matter for political gain and misleading the public. Thakur questioned Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, asking why he remains silent when the Congress-ruled Karnataka state itself demanded the discontinuation of RDG.
He pointed out that the 15th Finance Commission had clearly indicated that RDG could be phased out in the future. Thakur said Congress is creating unnecessary fear and confusion to divert attention from its financial mismanagement and administrative failures.
Comparing the Union Budgets of 2013-14 and 2026-27, Thakur highlighted that India’s budget model has shifted entirely. He noted significant increases in capital expenditure, defense, agriculture, education, railways, and health. For instance, total capital expenditure rose from ₹1.98 lakh crore to ₹12.2 lakh crore, the health budget increased from ₹37,000 crore to ₹92,000 crore, and railway CAPEX grew from ₹63,000 crore to ₹2.93 lakh crore.
Thakur also detailed development projects in Himachal Pradesh, stating that the central government has allocated ₹24,192 crore this year through tax transfers and grants. He mentioned initiatives such as the Udan scheme, new air routes, Mandi Greenfield Airport, national highway construction, and the Bharatmala project.
He added that nearly 200 central schemes with 90:10 funding are benefiting Himachal significantly. Provisions this year include ₹96,000 crore for the VB Gram scheme, ₹30,000 crore for MNREGA, ₹60,000 crore for Jal Jeevan Mission, and ₹54,917 crore for housing schemes.
Thakur concluded that the data clearly shows the central government’s budget focuses on development, investment, and public welfare, while Congress is indulging only in confusion and political maneuvering.
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